Los Angeles Travel Magazine 2021 Holiday Issue

LA TRAVEL

Inspiring Angelenos to Travel Near and Far

Escape LA for

DISCOVERING Wine Country DUBAI Iconic Luxury, Over the Top Adventures and Immersive Culture

BRIAN MALARKEY:

An Inside Peek at what this Top Chef is Cooking Up Next

The Editors' Pick: THE NAUTILUS, A Luxurious Hideaway We Wish We Could Keep to Ourselves

This Season's Hottest Getaways: The Channel Islands, Costa Rica, Las Vegas, Key Largo & Southern Oregon

Because your pup deserves a vacation too.

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Come for the Wine, Stay for the Place.

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Experience the wines of California’s only four-time winner as Winery of the Year. Enjoy farm-to-table dining in our signature restaurant.

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Relax in the suites of South Coast Winery Resort & Spa or hideaway in the private bungalows of Carter Estate Winery and Resort nestled in the vineyards of Temecula.

For Reservations Visit Wineresort.com or call 866.348.6152

Carter Hospitality Group - Creating memorable experiences at every unique destination.

SoCal

LIFE IN LUX

Readers Choice Awards

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HOLIDAY 2021

CONTENTS

FEATURES 48 THIS SEASONS EDITORS' PICK:

The Nautilus, a Luxury Bohemian Hideaway in the Maldives.

54 THE EDITORS' GUIDE TO DUBAI 72 COVER FEATURE BRIAN MALARKEY:

Get to know what this Top Chef has cooking for 2022.

SEE MONTANA 104 MUST See why The Green O should be added to your domestic bucket list asap!

112 PORTUGAL'S ROUTE 66: The European Road Trip you don't want to miss.

Letter from the Editors' HOLIDAY 2021

he Holidays are finally here and the fresh crisp fall air has finally arrived in Southern California. After this past summer, we have to admit the cooler temperatures are a nice change.

The past few months were anything but relaxing thanks to a plethora of events and trips to make up for 2020. We started this season by hosting our first annual Bentley Newport Beach Celebrity Golf Tournament for Barks of Love Animal Rescue. We explored locations full of adventure from Dubai to Montana. We also ventured to the tropical blue waters of The Maldives and were fortunate to discover a new property called The Nautilus that has to be one of the top resorts we have ever visited.

After saying goodbye to The Maldives we hopped on a plane to Missoula, Montana to visit the new Green O Resort, an adults only culinary infused retreat built into its natural surroundings. We spent most of our days immersed in action packed outdoorsy adventure from horseback riding to four wheel excursions.

This seasons' cover features SoCal resident Brian Malarkey. For someone that has been in the culinary limelight for a multitude of years from Top Chef to Guy's Grocery Games, Brian is so funny and down to earth. Our entire team really enjoyed working with him and we are excited to share his upcoming ventures with you!

Until next year, we hope you enjoyed all the trips we took in 2021 and we look forward to adventuring through 2022 with every one of you!

Jennifer & Michael

Experience the Last Frontier by land and sea aboard an Alaska Cruisetour and save up to $400.

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Cruisetours combine the luxury of Celebrity cruises, discovering mighty glaciers and charming ports, with the excitement of inland tours, exploring by glass-domed train and relaxing in authentic lodges.

Book your Cruisetour on the award-winning Celebrity Millennium® by September 30, 2021, and prepare for an unforgettable vacation.

CALL 1-888-283-6879 | CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR | VISIT CELEBRITY.COM NOTICE: Prior to booking, please consult all applicable U.S. Centers for Disease Control travel advisories, warnings, or recommendations relating to cruise travel, at cdc. gov/travel/notices. If a certain threshold level of COVID-19 is detected on board the ship during your voyage, the voyage will end immediately, the ship will return to the port of embarkation, and your subsequent travel, including your return home, may be restricted or delayed. * Visit celebrity.com for complete terms and conditions. Wild Wonders offer: Cruise must be booked September 1–30, 2021. Offer applies to select 9-night or longer Alaska Cruisetours on Celebrity Millennium® departing May 13 to September 9, 2022. Savings are per person for the first and second guests only and vary by stateroom category: $100 for inside and ocean view; $150 for veranda, Concierge Class, and AquaClass®; and $200 for suites. Promo codes are not required. Offer applies to new individual bookings, is not combinable with any group booking, and cannot be transferred to a group. Always Included: Applies to sailings booked and departing on or after November 17, 2020, excluding Galapagos cruises, in inside through AquaClass staterooms (eligible bookings). All guests in eligible bookings who choose Always Included pricing receive Classic Beverage Packages, unlimited Surf internet packages, and tips included. General: Health and safety protocols, guest conduct rules, and regional travel restrictions vary by ship and destination and are subject to change without notice. Due to evolving health protocols, imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features, or itineraries. These may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice. Offers and prices are subject to availability, cancellation, and change without notice at any time. Changes to a booking may result in removal of an offer. ©2021 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador.

MEET THE TEAM

Carolyn Aspa

Paula Ramos Designer

Director of Photography

Huey Bui

Ken Alcazar

Robyn Rutherford

Kelly Magyarics

Rachel Stein

Susan Watkins

Design Director

Photographer

Travel Writer

Travel Writer

Associate Photography Director

Travel Writer

Kelvin Bellamy

Michael Pascual

William Rouse

Sam Scarce

Dave Wrobel

Danielle Tavia

Taylor Kelly

Peggy Tanous

Culinary Travel

Music & Entertainment

Photographer

Lead Stylist

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Dezirae Elkins Chantele Petrocelli Angelo Zaccanelli Brianna Lopez Hannah Pascual

Videographer

Travel Writer

Videographer

Travel Writer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS 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

Melissa Curtin Vinnie Stevens Yvonne Lao Brittany Julifs John Piekarski Taylor Courtney 17

On the Cover P. 72 Brian Malarkey

Cover Photographed by Ken Alcazar @alcazark Hair Stylist: Tiffany Loe @christianmsalon

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HOLIDAY 2021

NOW OPEN

WWW.GRAZEOC.COM 22762 Aspan Street Suite 208 Lake Forest, CA 92630

CHARCUTERIE

LUNCH

CATERING

ON THE SCENE

ENDLESS SUMMER BASH Presented by BMW of Buena Park The Endless Summer Bash at BMW of Buena Park pulled in the who's who and included live performances by The Mahana Dance Company and Vixen DeVille. Tito's Handmade Vodka, Hornitos Tequila & Cruzan Rum sponsored the evenings hosted cocktails while DJZ Productions stole the spotlight with beats from around the world. Graze Box OC, Ai Pono Hawaiian Street Food & the Roshi Sushi Experience by Chef Daniel Siriban showcased delicious small bites that guests enjoyed throughout the event. A wine tasting display from Wilson Creek Winery which included a champagne cirque performance by Vixen DeVille had each event participant in awe as they entered the venue. Insta-worthy backdrops created by The Flower Social were a picture perfect addition paired with summer themed décor details from tropical floral centerpieces to bright colored lounge set ups.

An array of sweet treats took centerstage from Kokonut Dessert Bar, MoDo Hawaii Mochi Donuts and Haole Boys Shave Ice. While guests were mingling throughout the event they enjoyed decadent passed hors d'oeuvres from The Event Loft.

Editors Jennifer McLaughlin and Michael Dunn debuted the latest issues of LA Travel Magazine and OC Travel Magazine, the ultimate resource for the west coasts savviest travelers among magazine contributors, city officials, media guests, and local Southern California residents.

Red Carpet Photos By: Michael Pascual @_ michaelpascual Event Photos By: Ken Alcazar @alcazark Event Sponsors: BMW of Buena Park & BeDazzle My Events

ON THE SCENE

21

ON THE SCENE

THE BENTLEY NEWPORT BEACH CELEBRITY GOLF TOURNAMENT Monarch Beach Golf Links On October 15th, we hosted an event in partnership with Bentley Newport Beach as the Title Sponsor to benefit Barks of Love Animal Rescue. This exciting charity golf tournament included an awards ceremony and reception following play. The exclusive event attracted audiences composed of celebrities, professional athletes, philanthropists, corporate and community leaders as well as other influencers. Upon arrival golfers enjoyed lunch and beer provided by Eats X, a wine & putt competition sponsored by South Coast Winery, hand rolled cigars, a Bloody Mary bar presented by Effen Vodka and beats by DJ D Dub & Epic One Entertainment.

Guests and celebrities were invited to enjoy a day on the golf course enjoying beverages from BODYARMOR, Jim Beam, Pepsi Co. and Spa Girl Cocktails and then joined after the tournament for an evening of laughs with a delicious around the world themed dinner featuring Caribbean cooking from Good Choice Catering, Asian Fusion with Roba Noodle, Latin Flavors from Savory Roads Catering, Southern Comfort dishes from Trojan Grill Barbecue and beautifully presented desserts from Really Cute Sweets. They also enjoyed a glass of bubbly as they entered the reception from a live strolling champagne skirt presented by Edge of the World Entertainment at the red carpet entrance. The reception was positioned with a perfect sunset view to add to the gorgeous decor and florals provided by NPD Events.

Comedy Show entertainers for the post dinner included Jay Light a comedian and writer who has been seen on Comedy Central and HBO, and comedian Adam Hunter best known for being on Last Comic Standing, Jimmy Kimmel, Conan O' Brien and Chelsea Lately.

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel was named the official hotel partner for the event. Fusing modern luxury with playful creativity, this oceanview hotel provided a welcoming nature that catered to tournament guests and celebrities with locally sourced cuisine options, direct access to the ocean, opportunities to explore California's natural beauty and a revolving collection of works from local artists. Celebrity guests in attendance included Jeff DaVanon (MLB), Pete Shaw (NFL), Brian Malarky (TV Personality), JR Ramirez (Actor), Andrew Walker (Actor), James Tupper (Actor), Chris Soules (TV Personality), Gabriel Aubry (Model), Willie Buchanon (NFL), Chris Hale (NFL), Demi Bagby (American Bodybuilder), Ron Brown (NFL), Vicki Gunvalson (TV Personality) & more.

Sponsors for the event included Bentley Newport Beach, The RitzCarlton, Laguna Niguel, TOSI Superbites, Pepsi Co, BODYARMOR, Brewery X, Effen Vodka, Jim Beam & Spa Girl Cocktails.

Photography by: Michael Pascual

ON THE SCENE

DINING

NEW & NOTABLE DINING

What's Cooking in SoCal A Restaurant, Newport Beach As guests enter in to this Newport Beach staple, they are greeted by an expansive bar, with an extensive menu of signature handcrafted cocktails, wines, bubbly and beer. From a lemondrop martini to the delicious old fashioned, there is a cocktail to satisfy all taste buds. With its seasonally inspired, contemporary new-American menu, Executive Chef Robert Gomez and his team showcase the restaurant’s relationship with many local farms and purveyors. The seasonally changing menu offers sophisticated dishes of land and sea that pair perfectly with A’s cozy, romantic and lively atmosphere. For guests looking to enjoy beyond the bar, they are able to do so every day for dinner. Each menu item has been curated with deliciously unique staple items. While everything is noteworthy, some highlight menu items include the Niman Ranch Pork Chop paired with mixed mushrooms, acorn squash and creamy marsala. A variety of perfectly cooked steaks and seafood items don the list of choices making it quite the tough decision. The menu truly offers something for everyone, with several vegetarian options and a decent range of starters and sides.

The high-end concept of the restaurant is intended to cater to everyone, with personal touches and details at every turn which is why locals have been returning since 1926. Originally built as a restaurant and service station, construction began on The Arches in 1925, the same year Coast Highway opened up from Huntington Beach to Newport Beach. Founded by John Vilelle and James Sturgeon, it was named by 10 year old Victor Chatten in a contest advertised by them in the Balboa Times. The distinct Mediterranean style of the original buildings, with arches and red tile roofs, quickly made it a recognizable staple of Newport Beach as it helped to shape and inspire the town in its early stages.

Beginning as a basic roadside diner, the restaurant and its menu flourished together, featuring steak, seafood and celebrities in the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s, and was touted for its French food by the early 1970’s. And while its appearance and function has changed over time, its commitment to customer and community has not.

A+O, Newport Beach Recently refreshed with a waterfront-inspired design, the contemporary new look reflects inspiration found in both the beauty of Newport Beach and the charm of seaside villages nestled along the Italian Riviera. The reimagined design by Shannon Cook introduces new sliding glass doors allowing for uninterrupted, expansive views of the harbor and surroundings, with a palette of crisp whites, soothing oceanic blues, subtle yet sunny yellows mixed with warm wood accents throughout. Cozy fire pits dot the patio overlooking coveted bay views while yellow-and-white striped umbrellas add a playful pop to the restaurant’s expansive patio to complete the space’s fresh, sleek redesign.

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HOLIDAY 2021

DINING Helmed by Executive Chef Octavio Sabado, the restaurant now features a seasonal menu of approachable California coastal cuisine with an emphasis on scratch cooking and locally sourced, healthy ingredients. New signature dishes include Grilled Ancho Glazed Octopus with chile pineapple relish and fresh herbs; Seed & Nut Crusted Scottish Salmon with charred avocado, roasted tomato and creamy cucumber salsa; and the Butcher Block 16 oz. Prime Ribeye with roasted garlic jalapeño butter among other delectable items. A+O’s culinary offerings are complemented by a spirit-forward, creative craft cocktail program, including a smoked cocktail cart, designed by resident mixologists along with regular live entertainment for all to enjoy. Try the A&O Strawberry Lemonade with Ketel One Citroen, Lemon Juice, Strawberry, Rose & Club Soda for an afternoon refresher or the ever popular mocktail Orange County Flower Water.

Las Brisas, Laguna Beach Perched above the dramatic coastline of the Pacific Ocean in Laguna Beach, Las Brisas has stood the test of time in the Orange County dining scene.

Celebrating their 40th year in operation back in 2019, this Mexi-Cali classic has been delivering decadent seafood-dominant dishes since inception and shows no sign of slowing down. In commemoration of their impressive 40 years in business, this Laguna Beach landmark received a property-wide makeover allowing for a whole new level of hospitality to be attained.

The 400-seat dining establishment received significant changes but all done in a way to preserve the historic character that had been bringing in guests over the past 40 years. A new limited chef-curated menu, weekday happy hour, and a renewed focus on the bar and lounge have given Las Brisas that extra special something that has kept them among the top dining destinations in all of coastal Southern California.

With Head of Operations Howard Gardner at the helm, guests are guaranteed a first-rate experience from the moment they enter the premises. Whether here for takeout or the full dine-in experience, each and every customer's feedback is of utmost importance to the Las Brisas team. Gardner's 25 years of restaurant ownership and management experience at establishments such as Water Grill are extremely evident, showcasing the highest level of culinary excellence throughout your entire time spent dining under his supervision. If you have spent any time at this iconic Laguna Beach landmark, you know that it's the combination of their world-class hospitality, mouth-watering menu, and the jaw-dropping views that keep guests coming back year after year. This trifecta is not only a rarity at most restaurants, but to keep it up for over 40 years, well that's simply impressive. An outdoor dining experience at Las

Photography by: Baldemar Fierro

Brisas is one that is hard to beat in the OC dining scene; sprawling bougainvillea, panoramic views of the blue Pacific waters below, apocalyptic sunsets, all this with a glass of the finest wine, it simply doesn't get any better than this. Their sea-to-table menu paired with traditional Mexican classics is absolutely bursting with flavor and needs to be savored to get the full Las Brisas experience. Allow yourself to be guided by one of the highly-trained servers when it comes time to make the decision of which mouth-watering menu items to choose.

Awaken your tastebuds with the house-made fresh salsas and guacamole, order a handcrafted cocktail or glass of wine, take in the awe-inspiring views before you, this is Las Brisas in a nutshell. Although a slightly limited menu, you will quickly figure out why there are not pages of dishes to choose from.

Quality over quantity has never been so evident, with each dish being made to perfection. From the Spicy Tuna Tostada (avocado mousse, cabbage, lime) to the Seafood Cóctel (shrimp, crab, avocado, tostaditas, tomato citrus sauce) to the Shrimp Tampiqueños (Mexican prawns, corn, rice, white wine garlic sauce) all coupled with first-rate customer service and one of the best landscapes on the California coast, you are in for dining experience you will not soon forget!

PHENAKITE, Los Angeles LA's fine-dining restaurant, PHENAKITE, was recently awarded a Michelin Star by the renowned Michelin Guide.

Housed at Second Home and born in the pandemic from Chef Minh Phan of porridge + puffs (also housed at Second Home), PHENAKITE features a tasting menu that takes a journey of the land, sea, and air, juxtaposing introspection, expression and transformation. PHENAKITE is a modern angeleno restaurant redefining fine dining. On the awardwinning Second Home campus in Hollywood, no detail has been spared for this unique dining experience. A rare mineral that forms into gems under extreme pressure and conditions, the namesake PHENAKITE reminds us that food is beyond animal and plants, taking into account terroir, minerals, and the exchange of energy between earth and atmosphere as well as eons and epochs of stories.

Chef Minh Phan is a proud Angeleno who has been cooking professionally for almost two decades, creating and tinkering her entire life. She currently helms two critically-acclaimed Modern Californian restaurants PHENAKITE at Second Home Los Angeles and porridge + puffs. Buried under tsunamis of takeout boxes, upheaval of social change, and unending pivots during Covid, PHENAKITE started as a fine dining art project, reflecting and contemplating the issues at hand, providing thoughtful culinary respite, beauty and joy. Pulled together in less than 10 days (before LA closed due to Covid surges) in September of 2020, this once elusive experience is on its way to becoming a permanent icon, recently recognized as Restaurant of the Year. Born under pressure and chaos of Covid, PHENAKITE was made possible by the inspiring space and support of Second Home.

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HOLIDAY 2021

Burlesque, Variety, Circus, SideShow - add that wow factor to your next event with international award-winning performer Vixen DeVille. As seen on TV’s Master’s of Illusion, clients include “Hotel Roosevelt” Los Angeles, Anime Expo LA, “The Ritz Hotel”, London, “Club XS” Las Vegas.

Specializing in Fire Performance, Aerial Lyra, Aerial Bartending, Burlesque and Live Event Hosting, Vixen DeVille is the ultimate in live entertainment.

For info and inquiries visit www.VixenDeVille.com or email Vixen@VixenDeVille.com Phone 310-309-0169

“Charming, entertaining and captivating, audiences LOVE her and she is an expert at managing any size crowd” Julia Nichols, ‘Do Right Industries’

“Chair-edge riveting”, The Los Angeles Beat.

“She totally captivated the audience the moment she stepped out on stage” Producer, ‘Babylon Cabaret’

Learn to Eat Fire:

This unique experience is perfect for corporate team building or for a private group celebration.

Face your fears and discover your superhuman abilities as international award-winning variety performer Vixen DeVille takes you through step by step how to do basic hand transfers, tongue transfers and of course, extinguishing the flame with your mouth.

Previous clients include Airbnb, AirCovers, CBS This Morning.

“Memorable, fun and most of all SAFE experience! It seems crazy at first but is very fun and comfortable with Vixen’s direction” Alex Tima, Hybrid Wellness “Vixen was an incredible teacher, walking us through safety, technique components, practicing, and finally doing it! So much personal attention for everyone. It was an awesome experience in an intimate setting” Julia Megan

GET TO KNOW LA THROUGH TACOS By: Melissa Curtin

Ten Taco Spots that deserve your attention One Taco, Two Tacos, Three Tacos, Four…Ten Taco Spots to add to your Taco Quest Tacos are a Southern California way of life. Searching out tacos is a love affair for many Angelenos and often a quest to sample as many varieties as possible. No matter where you end up in LA, tacos can be found on street carts, temporary pop-ups, trucks, taquerias, and restaurants creating their unique spin on this fast food staple. Get to know LA through tacos!

BLAZE YOUR OWN TACO TRAIL Did you know Mexican silver miners in the 1800s were the first to describe rolled, filled tortillas as “tacos,” which originally meant a cigar-style explosive?

The nickname ‘taco’ for the small charges of gunpowder wrapped in paper caught on.

THE BREWS HALL DEL AMO IN TORRANCE While you may come here for the craft beer or to watch a game, the food hall consists of 4 restaurants. George Lopez’s Chingon Kitchen is dishing up two hefty sized beer battered fish tacos in a soft flour tortilla covered with shredded cabbage, spicy crema, cilantro, lime, and black beans and rice on the side. Corn tortillas are another option stuffed with your choice of carnitas, carne asada, citrus marinated chicken, or Soyrizo. Pair your tacos with George Lopez Brewing Co. Mexican style beers like Lil Mexi with Chamoy or a Paloma IPA.

ESCUELA TAQUERIA IN BEVERLY GROVE/FAIRFAX This is the best place to find a crispy skin Branzino Taco. At this cozy cantina at 7450 W. Beverly Blvd, dine alone or with a group. Don’t miss the pork rib tacos with homemade sweet chili sauce, the shrimp and chorizo tacos, and the Chicken Tinga Taco.

Try the unique Jamon and Queso Taco with crispy pancetta topped with spicy salsa verde or splurge on the $16 Maine Lobster Taco. Bring your own tequila or suds and they will open it and serve you for only $4 per person.

SOCALO IN SANTA MONICA LA chef legends Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken opened this California Mexican restaurant pouring out a sizeable taco menu with stand-outs like slow roasted Lamb Birria and Socal Dobladita concocted with roasted corn, kale, veggies, and chipotle aioli. Come for all-day Taco Tuesdays to sample as many as your belly can hold like Chorizo, Baja fish, and Steak and Shrimp with griddled cheese on blue corn tortillas.

LOQUI IN CULVER CITY, DOWNTOWN LA, AND PLAYA VISTA Inspired by Mexican taquerias, the luscious soft but chewy flour tortillas may have you pulling your car over weekly to run into Platform LA in Culver City. The addicting Mushroom Taco holds the best blend of beans, cheese, guacamole, onion, cilantro, and salsa. Try the pork, beef, and chicken tacos too.

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HOLIDAY 2021

CHICAS TACOS IN CULVER CITY, VENICE, BEVERLY/WEHO While the Mexican OG Pizza is a fan favorite, Chicas’ award-winning taco is the vegan Impossible taco. Devour our favorites – the pork taco or a beer battered fish taco with Caesar salad on top along with a steak taco in their colorful outdoor modern casual setup in Culver City.

Order the weekend Breakfast Tacos on corn tortillas with crispy potato, scrambled eggs, cheese, house salsa, cilantro and your choice of protein – shredded beef, chile verde braised pork, Choriman red chorizo or vegetarian-style.

Find Chicas at many locations and tucked in the Whole Foods in Venice and All Season Brewing Co. on La Brea.

SAGE PLANT BASED BISTRO IN AGOURA HILLS, CULVER CITY, ECHO PARK, AND PASADENA Vegan tacos are an easy find in LA. Sage brings you spicy eggplant barbacoa tacos, ban mi made with fried tofu tacos, a Baja fried avocado taco, and street tacos with chili seasoned jackfruit ‘carnitas.’ In Agoura Hills you can dine in a tree-filled outdoor atrium filled with other shops and restaurants.

LA CHINGONA TACOS IN TOPANGA CANYON, MALIBU

VILLA’S TACOS IN HIGHLAND PARK

Find street style tacos at this colorful roadside stand in Topanga Canyon with a cute seating area. This popular spot across from the funky Hidden Treasures store dishes up salmon, shrimp, and grass-fed carne asada tacos in thick soft mini tacos. Vegans will appreciate taco options like hibiscus stew, soy chorizo potato, and yuca cassava. Don’t miss out on the fried plantains with black beans and cream. You can opt out of tacos by using the same ingredients in a tostada, bowl, or torta. Three tacos with an Agua Fresca is $14.

Check for times and dates since it typically pops up three days a week from around 4:00 – 8:00 PM.

Right from their backyard, the grilling meat smoke will lead you to the spot for mesquite tacos packed with thick cuts of seasoned chicken, mild chorizo, and carne ranchera which sit atop griddled crispy cheese in handmade blue corn tortillas. The tacos are topped with chunky guacamole, onions, cilantro, crema, and cotija. Vegan friendly options like Soyrizo are also available. Add the cucumber lime Agua Fresca to your to-go order. Check for times because they often pop up on weekends from 3 PM on.

TODO VERDE AT THE FORD THEATER IN THE HOLLYWOOD HILLS The Ford made a bold move by going vegan with a culinary partnership with Todo Verde’s Mexican/South American plant-based menu from Chef Jocelyn Ramirez who gained taco popularity at Downtown LA’s Smorgasburg. Gear up for your live performance in this enchanting intimate canyon setting by coming early to dine outside on the terrace. Try blue corn tortilla tacos with spicy jackfruit carnitas doused with cashew crema and pepita pistachio pepita sauce, oyster mushrooms with spiced almond-based mole, and chorizo made with mushroom, tempeh, and tofu topped with fried onions and pickled carrot. Wash it down with the Black Rice Horchata or the Amorcito - a strawberry, rose, chia Aqua Fresca.

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HOLIDAY 2021

HOMESTATE IN HIGHLAND PARK, HOLLYWOOD, PASADENA, PLAYA VISTA, WEST ADAMS (TO-GO) KCRW honored HomeState with the Best Tortilla award in Southern California in 2020. This Texas Kitchen sold us with the slow cooked brisket taco but start your Sunday morning by adding that brisket with eggs (Pecos) to your tortilla, and continuing your happy day with the Quadalupe (chorizo, eggs, and cheddar), the Pacadillo (ground beef, pickled jalapenos, and cabbage stew), the Blanco (organic egg whites, shiitakes mushrooms, Monterey jack) or the most popular taco version - just melted cheese and crispy potatoes. For a fully amped version, order the Tijuana Panther packed with brisket, queso, crispy potatoes, and pico de gallo and we heard a favorite travel companion is the Frio with refried charro beans and Monterey jack. #ilovebreakfasttacos

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10 Ways to get to Know torrance

By Melissa Curtin

Nestled between Redondo Beach and Palos Verdes, Torrance is a bustling city with deep history and a lot of adventure to offer – from world-class shopping to beaches, culture, and an incredible food and craft beer scene. Just 10 miles from LAX and 17 miles north of Long Beach Airport, Torrance is the place to enjoy your hops in your flip-flops!

Besides exploring over 400 unique dining options and 12 microbreweries, get to know Torrance by spending a day at the city’s 1.5-mile beach. Walk the historic Downtown (Old Torrance) where starting in 1915 “Big Red Cars” (the trolley system) stopped and shuffled people back and forth to LA. Gain a deeper sense of the past with a visit to the Torrance Historical Society

Museum or dine at one of the longtime California-based chains such as Foster’s Old Fashion Freeze serving ice cream and burgers.

Torrance is also the backdrop to hundreds of TV and movie appearances like Beverly Hills 90210, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Boogie Nights. Notable celebrity natives include Quentin Tarantino, Chuck Norris, Michelle Kwan, and Chloe Kim. If you are itching to shop, score some goodies at Del Amo Fashion Center, one of the largest shopping malls in America. Out-oftowners will want to check out the California Welcome Center inside to help plan their Golden State journey.

Get to know Torrance: Dive into diverse cuisine

Pick up meals-to-go or the best Japanese products at Mitsuwa Marketplace

Start the morning with a taste of paradise at King’s Hawaiian Bakery & Restaurant – famous for their sweet King’s Hawaiian bread sold at grocery stores, and served in their diner as the Famous French Toast with a side of fried spam or Portuguese sausage. Since 1950 they’ve been baking delicious bread (once sold in round-shaped tins) and since 1977 their headquarters moved from Hilo, Hawaii to Torrance.

Transport yourself to the best of Japan with ready-to-go Japanese dishes like salmon sashimi bowls, yellowtail sashimi, fried pork bento boxes, sea urchin, ramen bowls, sushi, chicken katsu, fried gyoza, and more.

Take home beauty products, meals from the food court area, or amazing products like specialty sauces, packaged miso-marinated black cod, bluefin tuna, or luscious cuts of salmon. Find a stellar selection of interesting sauces, saki, and Japanese whiskey too.

One of the largest Japanese populations outside of Hawaii in America exists here, influencing the local cuisine in major ways. For a unique selection of fresh fish, get your chopsticks ready at Kappo Irifune, a female chef-owned sushi restaurant with amazing specials and prices and a large selection of the Japanese distilled spirit shochu. For uni lovers, don’t miss dining at Miyabi Uni for top-quality sushi and loads of uni options. Sea urchins can be found in miso soup, blended in pasta, atop oysters, in shooters, and part of a generous bowl of sashimi.

Considered the ramen capital of Southern California, seek out a traditional ramen experience at Hikata Ikkousha, the only one in the US outside of Tokyo. Known for winning number one at Ramen Championship for 2 years, this low-key ramen joint allows you to create a custom bowl or order popular bowls like the God Fire or Black Garlic Tonkotsu. In Downtown Torrance discover Ichimi Ann Bamboo Garden serving inexpensive bowls of udon and ramen. Locals let us know about Meiji Tofu (that is also sold at Mitsuwa) where tofu is made fresh and sold out of a little window until noon.

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Discover fresh produce, unique culinary products, and yummy bites at the Torrance Farmer’s Market.

One of the best ways to get to know an area is through their farmer’s market. The Torrance Farmer’s Market is the largest market in the Los Angeles South Bay. The year-round market takes place every Tuesday and Saturday at Charles Wilson Park. An incredible selection of local produce, pastries, prepared foods, flowers, and other specialty vendors are on hand.

Find berries lined up in colorful patterns - strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and yellow golden berries. Ha’s Apple Farm sells snow mountain apples and Yasutomi Farms showcases Japanese produce like Japanese eggplant and Shishito peppers. Peanuts, cactus ears, and gorgeous 4-foot pink plumeria (for $60) also caught our eye as we meandered around.

Vendors you may want to seek out include Organic Bone Broth, unique granola flavors from Granola Garden, Golden Milk powder with turmeric

It might be best to start with Torrance’s first brewery established in 2000 called The Red Car Brewery and Restaurant named after the famous Red Car Line where the trolley stopped a block from this former old telegraph building in the historic downtown.

Fun beers range from Seasonal Citrus, Big Red Ale, to a South Loop Porter. Pair with Red Brewery’s fried long pickles, artichoke dip, or pizza. We happened to be there when the locals were celebrating Torrance’s own little league team at the World Series.

Monkish Brewing Co. is another worthy stop where one can sip a Belgian-style dark ale, a Belgian-style tripel with hibiscus, and a double dry-hopped IPA called Even More Hipsterish.

The Brews Hall Del Amo is an impressive brewery and food hall featuring two breweries and four restaurants, and a full bar under one roof. Big TVs for games are even outside in this open-air venue and plenty of outdoor seating is available to sling back outstanding rock and roll craft beers from BUZZROCK Brewing Co and Mexican-style beers from George Lopez Brewing Co. (yes, the comedian). Some of our favorites included Lil Mexi with Chamoy around the lip’s rim, Paloma IPA, a double hazy IPA called Trop Rock, and Sauvicito Stout with cinnamon and cacao nibs with chocolate and caramel flavors.

Live the California dream at Torrance Beach Stretching 1.5 miles between Redondo Beach and Malaga Cove on the Santa Monica Bay, this South Bay Beach is part of the 22-mile beach trails known as The Strand – the best place to walk, jog, or bike along the beach on its paved path. You might recognize this beach area from episodes of Criminal Minds, Revenge, or The Closer.

and cinnamon from Zen’s Tea House, and Cali Dumpling Delivery selling bags of Pork XLB. We devoured warm mini Dutch pancakes known as “puffers” doused with powdered sugar from Poffertjes/Oma’s Puffers after we watched the owner fill little griddle holes with batter followed by a warm guava malasada from a nearby vendor while lines formed quickly at Asian and Hawaiian Wok & Grill BBQ.

Sample beer flights from 12 local breweries A hotbed for craft beer, brew tasting adventures abound. Grab a brewery map and sample novel suds at 12 local breweries. While the area is known for its sours and hazy IPAs, beer flights give you an opportunity to experience the city’s innovations before committing to one variety. Owner and brewmaster Laurie Porter of Smog City Brewing Co. reminded us that “craft beer didn’t really start in LA until 2008 and since there is no historical legacy to define it, that variety is unlike what you would get in most places.”

Smog City was packed on a Wednesday at 5PM with live music outside and socially distant tables. After sampling 2 beer flights our palette was tantalized with White Peach Saison, Coffee Porter, an Octoberfest beer called Slam Dunkel, and a Bourbon O.E. aged in bourbon barrels for a year. Laurie let us know about their Total Boss Beer concocted by females in support of females to honor sticking up for one another in maledominated fields. Smog City’s award-winning Kumquat Beer is a result of donated fruit in partnership with Food Forward, an organization on a mission to reduce food waste.

Take advantage of the volleyball courts and come during the week for a quieter vibe. Pick up some treats for the beach like pastries, lemon bars, éclairs, cheesecake, flourless cookies, scones, and/or doughnuts from family-owned Torrance Bakery Café and Coffee Bar established in 1984. Don’t miss their Buttermilk Stick, a churro crossed with a donut.

Learn about local history at the Torrance Historical Society Museum In historic Downtown Torrance lies the former 1936 library building now filled with fascinating relics and artifacts from the last 100 years of the town’s local history. Besides vintage photos of Torrance’s float at the Rose Bowl Parade, black and white photos of a turkey ranch advertising Thanksgiving turkeys, and photos of the early streets cars that rode back and forth to LA with flippable seats, one section really stood out – Louie Zamperini, the hometown hero of Torrance known from the book and film Unbroken produced by Angelina Jolie.

Here at this small museum lies the personal memorabilia of Louie, the Olympic runner, the World War II vet, and his story that inspired so many of us on the big screen. Zamperini’s plane crashed due to mechanical failures on a search and rescue mission. He drifted at sea for 47 days with two crew members until landing on the Japanese-occupied Marshall Islands. The journey included surviving shark attacks, storms, and starvation.

Taken as a prisoner of war, he was tortured and beaten at two different camps but managed to survive. Find his donated death certificate here since when he was adrift at sea his family was notified of his death. Read his journals and more on display 33

his journals and more on display celebrating Louie’s life and heroic welcome back to Torrance.

Witness wildlife at Madrona Marsh Preserve Unexpectedly, we observed bullfrogs and tree frogs in this area surrounded by the city. We had never seen a green heron, a cloudless sulphur butterfly, or a scaly breasted Munya bird until our guided traipse through this urban seasonal wetland preserved many years ago as it is the resting place/pathway for birds during their Pacific Flyway. Once used for oil recovery in the 1920s, which kept it from being commercially developed, this currently dry vernal marsh has an area where storm drain water has been bio-filtered to create a unique ecosystem. Although you have to be on a tour or gain permission to access the lake-like area, the rest of the area is free to walk around while an educational center across the street provides docent-led ventures.

Drive by Torrance High Torrance has been the backdrop for more than 200 film and TV series episodes and Torrance High may be the most recognized landmark – with scenes from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Beverly Hills 90210, She’s All That, Bruce Almighty, and many more.

Embrace your artistic wanderlust at Torrance Art Museum Visitors need about 30 - 45 minutes at this free modern museum with two gallery exhibits from local and international artists. The Torrance Art Museum is part of the Torrance Cultural Arts Center “town square” where citizens can take art classes or dance classes in the studios, or in non-covid times attend a show at the 500 seat James. R Armstrong Theatre plus enjoy other events at the Torino Festival Plaza, the Toyota Community Meeting Hall, and the Pine Wind Japanese Garden.

Stay Awhile Torrance Marriott Redondo Beach received a major renovation with coastal-inspired guest rooms and a modern restaurant called 21 Square Bar + Kitchen that extends into a ‘backyard’ space overlooking an indoor/outdoor pool and green space with cozy fire pits and chef ’s garden. Inspired by the 21-square-mile city of Torrance founded in 1921, the restaurant serves regionally inspired and locally sourced SoCal cuisine and hyper-local craft beer, including its own aptly named “21 and Over” brew.

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Miyako Hybrid Hotel is an upscale Japanese-style property known for its peaceful nature with grand showers, bidet-style warmed toilet seats, and deep baths for soaking. Hot stone spa treatments are available and American or Japanese Bento Boxes are offered for breakfast.

These Eight Iconic Winery Experiences Aim to Spark Wine Wanderlust Photos Courtesy of Foley Family Wines

From Napa Valley to the Central Coast, these Eight Wineries from Foley Family Wines Offer Exciting Tasting Experiences Throughout California

California With travel back on the agenda for 2021, wineries are welcoming visitors with open arms and a slew of entertaining and engaging experiences that go beyond the usual swirland-sip tasting. These eight California wineries, all part of the Foley Family Wines portfolio, beckon travelers up and down the state with activities ranging from weekend brunch to strolls among horse stables to cave tours and more.

Reservations are available online at each winery’s website; all winery information is available at https://foleyfamilywines.com.

Firestone Winery, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County - Friday Night Wine Experiences Firestone is located in a unique cusp region with a “Goldilocks” climate that is neither too hot nor too cold.

Visitors can enjoy seating tastings in the tasting room, on the lawn or in the courtyard, with flights including wines ranging from crisp white to intense red blends. Throughout the summer, Firestone offers a coveted Friday Night Summer Concert Series, featuring live music from 6 PM to 9 PM and wines by the bottle. Food is available for purchase from either Filthy Filly's Steakhouse Food Truck or Tom's BBQ for tri-tip sandwiches. Friday concerts are free; reservations are required and available at www.firestonewine.com. 5017 Zaca Station Rd, Los Olivos, CA 93441.

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Ferrari-Carano, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County Sycamore Grove Wine & Brunch Long known for its unparalleled hospitality, Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery recently unveiled new tasting experiences that showcase this Sonoma County winery’s stunning gardens, vineyards and outdoor enclaves. Enhanced appointment-only tastings held in the Sycamore Grove or outdoor Terrace invite guests to sit amongst shady trees and experience the winemaker’s favorite wines paired with Italian-inspired bites prepared by the Estate Chef. On Sundays, visitors can enjoy La Colazione Italiana (Breakfast Italian Style) at the signature Sycamore Grove Wine & Brunch. $30 per person, Il Terrazzo Tasting; $85 per person, Brunch. Reservations available daily from 11 AM to 5 PM; Sunday Brunch, 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM only. Book online at www.ferraricarano.com. 8761 Dry Creek Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448

Lancaster Estate, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County Hillside Cave Tour & Tasting An exceptional cave tour experience, highlighting our unique wine library & our detailed barrel aging process. Based on County restrictions, you may experience limited access during your visit.

Join us in our Garden Grove for an intimate tasting of four estate wines in a relaxed outdoor setting, overlooking our premier Bordeaux varietals grown exclusively in Alexander Valley. Allow our wines to reveal the unique character of our hillside estate. $75 per person. Reservations available daily from 10 AM to 4 PM at www.lancaster-estate.com. 15001 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448.

Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery, Sonoma - Historic Cherryblock Vineyard Tour and Tasting Sebastiani’s historic Cherryblock Vineyard Tour and Tasting takes guests on a private 90-minute excursion with a Senior Wine Educator to learn about the winery’s rich history, unique viticulture and the winemaking philosophy behind their world-famous estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Cherryblock. Tasting includes five signature wines, including two vintages of Cherryblock. $110 per person. Reservations available daily from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM at www.sebastiani.com.

389 4th St E, Sonoma, CA 95476.

Chalk Hill Estate, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County - Vineyard Overlook Experience Founded in 1972, Chalk Hill Estate Vineyard and Winery is a premier Sonoma County wine estate best known for its iconic Chardonnay, as well as its limited-production, estate-grown wines.

The spectacular 1,300-acre estate is home to multiple venues hosting elevated experiences, organic culinary gardens and largely uncultivated wilderness in an effort to preserve the land. Its signature wine tasting, The Vineyard Overlook Experience, offers guests an elegant and immersive guided-tasting experience with picturesque vineyard views of the Russian River Valley alongside an array of estate-grown wines. $40 per person. Reservations available daily from 11 AM to 3 PM at www.chalkhill.com. 10300 Chalk Hill Road, Healdsburg, CA 95448.

Chalone Vineyard Monterey County’s oldest winery, Chalone Vineyard, is perched in the ruggedly beautiful terrain of the Gavilan Bench with a storied past as remarkable as its acclaimed wines. Located 1,800 feet above the Salinas Valley and bordering Pinnacles National Park, the estate’s rolling vineyards benefit from a unique combination of limestone and granite soils that create wines with distinctive minerality. Visitors will enjoy an intimate wine tasting of five estate wines while learning about a winery whose Chardonnay brought California wines to the world stage during the landmark Judgment of Paris tasting in 1976. $25 per person. Reservations available Friday through Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM at www. chalonevineyard.com. 32020 Stonewall Canyon Road, Soledad, CA 93960.

Lincourt Vineyards, Central Coast Lincourt Vineyards is nestled in Santa Barbara County outside of the Dutch-inspired town of Solvang in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA, one of the most coveted cool-climate AVAs in California. Lincourt’s tasting room is located in an original 1926 Sears Craftsman Kit Home that has served as the farmhouse of what was once a dairy farm. The property has retained the rustic, rural charm and simplicity of an earlier era.

Named for Bill and Carol Foley’s daughters, Lindsay and Courtney, Lincourt produces small-lot bottlings of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Guests can enjoy views of the beautiful estate vineyard for their seated tastings on the patio, with the option of an accompanying cheese and charcuterie plate. $30 per person; additional $30 for charcuterie plate.

Reservations available daily from 11 AM to 5 PM at www.lincourtwines.com. 1711 Alamo Pintado Rd, Solvang, CA 93463.

Foley Johnson, Rutherford, Napa Valley - Three Wineries in One Stop Housed in a converted 1920s redwood barn, Foley Johnson’s tasting room offers three iconic Napa Valley winery tastings in one location.

Guests can reserve an indoor or patio tasting of wines from Foley Johnson, Kuleto Estate and Merus wineries -- three distinctive Napa Valley wineries brought together under one roof by Bill Foley and his wife, Carol Johnson. $85 per person for Luxury Cabernet Vertical; $50-55 per person for Foley Johnson or Kuleto Estate patio tasting. Reservations available daily from 10 AM to 5 PM at www. foleyjohnsonwines.com. 8350 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 37 94573.

#TRAVELFORFASHION

Art Hearts Fashion Lights Up Los Angeles Fashion Week with Series of Runway Shows and Events

By Erin Whittaker and Photography by Mark Gunter & Ken Alcazar LOS ANGELES – All eyes were on the runway last week as designers showcased transformative collections for Los Angeles Fashion Week Powered by Art Hearts Fashion. The week proved to be a moment for emerging creators and renowned designers alike, as guests saw inspired designs and head-turning wearable art. The shows were a

Thursday, October 14th HOUSE OF SKYE by Skye Yayoi Drynan opened the week of shows with an inclusive, trendsetting collection. The line brought to life a Phoenix Rising theme, featuring men’s metallic jackets, structured suiting, and dramatic corsets. The brand showcased their globally patented SEXYBACK BRA with stars of Bling Empire, Kelly Li Mi and Kane Lim walking in the show.

Jonathan Marc Stein took the runway next with a crowd pleasing collection of lux eveningwear in deep colors of emerald, ruby, and blue. Bold statement garments shined with elegant draping and tulle skirts. Gh Luxury Lingerie followed on the runway with the brand’s signature ‘Lingerie as Outerwear’ designs. The high fashion pieces and unisex styles brought chic cuts and fashion forward tailoring centerstage. House of Castell by Merlin Castell closed the opening day of Art Hearts Fashion with a theatric avantgarde collection. Drag Queen Nebraska Thunderfuck stole the show in a jaw-dropping, seethrough red gown.

Friday, October 15th Glaudi kicked off day two with an elegant collection of eveningwear for men and women. The couture bridal house showcased stunning floor-length gowns in pastel, and deep tones, alongside men's bespoke suits. Next on the runway, Eni Buiron FEMME brought a dramatic collection of striking silhouettes and powerful designs. Black pieces came alive with pops of gold creating a regal aesthetic. Alexis Monsanto closed the first show of the night with a Kaleidoscope of color. Nature reigned supreme in a collection

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hotspot for celebrities and influencers who came out eager to get a first look at the season’s latest trends.

EyeBuyDirect, partnered with Los Angeles Fashion Week as a Presenting Sponsor, providing designers with the hottest styles for models walking the runway. VIP guests found stylish, quality frames from EyeBuyDirect in their event gift bags and shared their favorite styles on social using the hashtag #RunwayMyWay. The beauty trends on the catwalk were made possible by Title Beauty Sponsor Runway Rogue, Official Makeup Tool Sponsor Japonesque, and Official Hair Care Sponsor I.C.O.N. Additional sponsors include: Classic Cat, Rockstar Energy Drink, hair extensions provided by Pretty Party, Shibue Couture, The Makeup Light, Eat Me Guilt Free, April Love Pro Makeup Academy, Hint Water, Florapy Beauty, Simply High, Warwick LA, Executive Styles and AHF media partners: California Apparel News, Angeleno Magazine, Fashion TV, Fashion Week Online, 24Fashion TV, FNL Networks, BEHIND IT© Magazine, and Famous and Savage Magazine. The event featured a fine art gallery curated by Six Summit Gallery.

Special thanks to Official Hotel Sponsor Hilton Checkers Los Angeles, the premier location for pre-event drinks and dinner.

Watt x W.G., the collaboration between designer Willfredo Gerardo and Artist Chance Watt, elevated street style looks with hand-painted designs in bright neon and pastel colors. Next, model-turned-designer Anna Gupta showcased a red carpet worthy collection of women’s eveningwear. The designer’s

imaginative line stood out with ethereal, whisper light capes and sleeves. Celebrity designer Willfredo Gerardo closed day two of shows with sequin sets, soft feminine designs, and voluminous dresses in striking yellows and greens.

Saturday, October 16th ARGYLE GRANT opened the shows with sophisticated, patterned swim trunks and speedos in fun energetic designs.

Chicago Playground followed with a collegiate-style collection of letterman’s jackets and cardigans. The fresh take turns iconic styles into conversation-pieces. Next up, Chavez Inc. drew eyes in with inspired futuristic women’s couture. The ingenious designs shimmered and shined with crystals, gems, and diamonds.

Custo Barcelona treated guests to a virtual show, allowing guests to view his latest collection via video. The ingenious line filled the runway with color.

Adam Saaks Religion debuted his latest hand cut apparel and high end athleisure. The designer closed his show demonstrating his work by live cutting a garment on the runway.

Mister Triple X closed the evening with a rock-n-roll streetwear line, highlighting plunging necklines and curve hugging designs. The Biker Babes and Bikinis theme was on full display with spiked hoodies, unique harnesses, and metallic bodysuits.

Sunday, October 17th A stand out collection by stylist’s go-to NATALIA FEDNER showcased shimmering sets and see-through dresses. The brand’s patented 6-way Stretch Metal designs, mold to the wearer with their own body heat. StormyWeather Designs followed with deconstructed military style apparel for men and women. The brand utilizes camo and varied fabrics to create pieced, invigorated looks. Next on the runway, Giannina Azar brought old-school glamour back to life with stunning head-totoe beaded and embellished womenswear.

L A FASHION WEEK

featuring elaborate floral and horned head pieces, feathers and expert layering.

#TRAVELFORFASHION

Kenneth Barlis of season 19’s Project Runway, opened the final show of the week with The Moretsuna Gemu SS22 collection. Jaw-dropping, barely-there strap bodysuits and dramatic puff sleeve jackets delighted in this bright, strong line. ASTA RAZMA followed with COLLECTION ALPHA Spring/Summer 2022.

The edgy, confident collection featured spray- paint art, chains, and barbed wire fits on a pret-a-porter collection of coats jackets corsets. Diana Couture X UBS Gold closed out fashion week with a grand finale showcase of their CYBER COUTURE SS21.

The collection, a collaboration with Indonesian based gold accessory brand UBS, was a feast of imaginative apparel from bodysuits to ball gowns.

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HOLIDAY PROPOSAL GUIDE:

The Best Locations to Pop the Question It’s what most of us dream about from the time we were children… It’s the question that will change your life forever. It’s when your partner gets down on one knee and pops THE question! There is typically so much pressure surrounding proposals: how to ask, when to ask, where to ask? Creating the perfect proposal set-up has become critical, a requirement even. Well we’ve got a guide for you! If you are looking to go the extra mile, knock the socks of your partner and plan an over-the-top destination proposal, here are a few suggestions of exceptional locations that will guarantee your partner says YES!

By Taylor Courtney

A South African Safari There is nothing more exhilarating than being proposed to while on safari in South Africa. Your holiday trip will be summertime in the Southern Hemisphere, which provides gorgeous, warm weather during the days and perfectly temperate nights. Stay at a luxury safari lodge on any one of the country’s game reserves 42

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and schedule a private game drive for just the two of you. You’ll take in the incomparable scenery with sightings of the most endangered and sought-after wild animals. Imagine getting a proposal selfie with a pride of lions nearby! The African sunsets will astound you and serve as the perfect backdrop making this proposal idea unforgettable!

NYC

Tulum

There’s a reason winter in New York City is the setting for so many Rom-Coms. It’s such a romantic, vibrant place to visit with many proposal options. Try a classic horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park. Cuddled intimately underneath a cozy blanket, as tiny snowflakes land on your noses, this is a timeless proposal opportunity. If that’s not your vibe, why not go to the top of Rockefeller Center (Top of the Rock) where you will find a breathtaking view of the neighboring high-rises, as well as the festive ice rink and iconic Christmas tree directly below you. It’s the pictureperfect place for an intimate proposal in the big apple.

For the couple that craves tropical vibes all year long, Tulum is a wonderfully romantic location. With some of the world’s most beautiful white-sand beaches, Tulum is a low-maintenance location, providing you with beautiful backdrops everywhere you turn. To make your beach proposal a little more unique, consider setting up a message-in-a-bottle for your partner to “find” as you walk along the shore. If you’re looking for something more than just a beach spot, Tulum has many other breathtaking, Instagram-worthy photo spots, like Cenote Ik Kil, Kaan Luum Lagoon, and Cenote Car Wash. Any one of these sites are guaranteed to set your proposal apart.

Aspen, CO If you like sparkling ski slopes, starry skies, and sensational soirees, look no further than Aspen. Consider ending the year with a bang by proposing at The Nell’s famous Dom Perignon NYE Party! Aspen has extravagant events to ring in the new year, so whether you wait until the clock strikes midnight and drop to a knee on the dance floor, or propose outside to a stunning fireworks display, it will be a remarkable moment for you and your partner.

San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua Make your way to this Central American paradise if you’re looking for something incredibly unique. Reserve your stay at Tree Casa Resort, a jungle oasis that lives up to its name, with guest suites literally built into the trees. This magical compound is dedicated to forming deeper, fuller connections between the natural environment and the people who come to stay. This proposal is hard to top.

Tauranga, NZ

Stowe, Vermont

Another Southern Hemispheric location, Tauranga is a far-away paradise located on the coast of the North Island, New Zealand. Enjoy a scenic walk up to the top of majestic Mount Maunganui, where you’ll have a gorgeous 360-view of the entire coastal city. You can watch the cliff divers jump off and fly above you, while you propose at sunset on top of the picturesque mountain. Charter a private helicopter to ensure remarkable views of the whole island in an exclusive and intimate setting perfect for a proposal! Whatever you choose to do, Tauranga will have your heart forever!

This delightful New England town is a great proposal location with so many beautiful spots encapsulated into this winter wonderland, choosing a great location shouldn’t be hard.

Consider wine tasting at the Trapp Family Lodge, a mountain resort that features Austrian-inspired architecture and offers stunning mountain views. The views alone would provide a gorgeous winter backdrop for any proposal. With daily wine tastings in their very own intimate wine cellar, this would be a charming and romantic place to propose to your lover and enjoy deliciously paired wine and Vermont’s best cheeses post proposal to toast to your future together.

Whistler, BC Whistler has endless proposal spots for the nature-loving couple. Believe it or not, there is a spot called Proposal Corner in Lost Lake Park. This winter, you can ski or snowshoe to the site, and for the adventurous couples this will make the whole excursion even more fun and special! For something a little more calm and relaxing, visit Scandinave Spa. Sink into hot tubs or cuddle next to fire pits in this adult-only spa. You’ll hear nothing but the sounds of nature and your own hearts beating together as you start your engagement in this glorious, mountainous setting.

Engaged and married couples alike are always asked to tell the story of their proposal, over and over and these locations are sure to shock and impress anyone who asks!

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Like Nowhere Else on Earth; SoCal's Channel Islands

T

By: Melissa Curtin

he Channel Islands have piqued my interest for over a decade as I look at Catalina Island (one of the 8 Channel Islands) from our Malibu pad. During the pandemic we discovered the lesser known idyllic Two Harbors on Catalina where a stay at rustic Banning Lodge made me long for my tranquil New England homeland.

But these other unfamiliar islands we yearned to explore offered no lodging, no restaurants, no zip lining, no modern comforts; only nature and camping.

Considered America’s least visited National Park, my curiosity to explore the Channel Islands also stemmed from my east coast sailor father who explored the Galapagos Islands twice and spent a year sailing around South America. He often mentioned his strong desire to visit this area due to its unique position offering biodiversity like

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nowhere else in the world. The marine sanctuary and park provide a refuge for sea life and due to the kelp forests, caves, clear water, and rich diversity of animals and plants, this is one of top scuba diving sites in world. However, experts say all you need is a mask and a snorkel since there are tons of fish in the first five to ten feet like the bright orange-red garibaldi.

From above, the 8 islands float like ribbons of dark rock off the coast of California and are home to over 2,000 species of animals and plants with about 145 found nowhere else on earth. The biodiversity is a result of isolation over thousands of years and mingling of warm and cold ocean currents. The Channel Islands get their name from the deep troughs that separate them from the mainland.

Today, five of the islands and the waters within one nautical mile of each island are protected as Channel Islands National Park.

The closest island – Anacapa – is just an hourlong boat ride from Oxnard and is shaped like a 5-mile long spine of rock emerging from the ocean broken into 3 islets. We read there were seabirds abound with the largest brown pelican rookery in the United States. The Chumash called it Anyapakh or “mirage” because in 1853 a sidewheel steamer ran full speed into the rocks crashing and sinking. In 1912 the Coast Guard built a light beacon followed years later by a light station.

Less than an hour drive from home and about an hour boat ride to Anacapa or Santa Cruz islands, I wondered how we had not managed to come here earlier. Only accessible commercially by boat from Ventura/Oxnard or by plane from Camarillo, did this impede other travelers to not flock? Or was it the lack of luxury accommodations, the challenge of getting there, or just a lack of awareness?

The night before our venture to Anacapa Island, our boat with Island Packers (the official boat to get to the Channel Islands) leaving from the peaceful Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard was cancelled due to huge swells at the island landing. From our hotel base in Oxnard we soon had a new plan as we drove 11 miles north to Ventura Harbor to board a 50-person boat to Santa Cruz Island, the largest of the Channel Islands just 20 miles offshore.

As we pulled away from the harbor at 9 AM, our smiles stretched as dolphins rode our boat’s wake for a majority of the trip and we gleefully anticipated what was to come of this unfamiliar land. Passing Anacapa’s jagged bumps bursting from the ocean in the distance, we glided into the glistening cove near Scorpion Ranch at Santa Cruz Island where a steep jagged brown scruffy green dotted landscape greeted us. Brightly colored kayaks and a few snorkelers could be seen dockside.

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After an orientation with a Park Ranger offering a guided hike, my husband and I decided to spend our day hiking the 5-mile loop from Scorpion Ranch to Potato Harbor by ourselves. Once off the docks we passed a little historical museum with ranch ruins, old farming equipment, and decided to head inland first. Grand-sized black crows with larger than normal beaks guarded the island from atop fig trees.

The rugged vertical climbing landscape seemed to be screaming for water as the entire hillside canyon views surrounding us was brown. It felt all too familiar as the land felt like most of the hikes we traipse in Malibu. Due to the drought, wildflowers were non-existent and there was evidence of dead once yellow blooming giant coreopsis along the higher elevations. Passing dried brown lonely grasslands and a few oil spurts from the ground, it was exciting to reach the rugged jaw-dropping coastline with bird poop rock islands popping from the ocean down below the steep cliffsides, where one wrong step would send you to your death.

The coastal scruff led us to a mesmerizing cliffhanging view perfect for a sandwich lunch break. The aquamarine cove looked like Greece as one white sailboat bobbed in contrast to the Mediterranean greenish-blue waters with its

private sandy shoreline only accessible by boat or kayak. Santa Cruz Island is considered an example of what southern California looked like hundreds of years ago.

Twenty-two miles long and from two to six miles wide, a central valley splits the island with volcanic rock in the north and older sedimentary rock on the south. Imagine what life was like for the Chumash Indians who lived here for centuries before being owned privately by one family. For decades this island was a big sheep and cattle ranch before National Park Service ownership. Half of our return hike had us hugging the island’s bluffs making it a pleasurable return stopping at Cavern Point.

I was hoping to see the island’s endemic cute cat-like fox and the scrub jay, but no such luck although the Channel Island’s fox was prevalent at dusk in Two Harbors, Catalina Island when we were there.

If we had more time and planned better, we would definitely have booked the kayak venture to Painted Cave, one of the largest sea caves in the world. A hundred feet wide, kayakers can explore the colorful cavern named for the various lichen and algae decorating its interior.

Home to Pacific grey whales in the winter and humpback, finback, blue, and orca whales in

the summer, we didn’t witness those ocean masters (or sharks) but we did have a oncein-a-lifetime ocean encounter on our return trip as our boat cruised through 5-6 dolphin pods with thousands of frolicking dolphins swarming around our boat in each pod. The boat company even slowed down and made a circle so we could witness this amazing show for quite some time while unexpected pods teeming with endless dolphins continued. Only twice before had I seen anything remotely similar in Baja California Sur off the coast of Loreto and La Paz in Mexico but this was unprecedented as numerous pods jumped all around us, rode our wake, and shimmied under our boat. My screams of joy could probably be heard from the mainland – reminding us that sometimes even the journey as just as exhilarating as the destination.

Tips for planning your trip Reserve the boat trip and campsite (if you plan to stay over). The roundtrip ferry cost is about $60 per person but book in advance. There are toilets and a large campground near Scorpion Ranch and we heard #16-18 are great spots to camp in a forested area as well as 9, 3 and 1 (due to being close to the boat). Use the park’s website www.nps.gov/chis to help plan your visit.

Bring food with you. We picked up savory sandwiches and a breakfast burrito that morning from Honey Cup Coffeehouse and Creamery in the Channel Islands Harbor.

Water spouts are available but bring water with you and plan to take everything back with you as nothing can be left on the island. There are no garbage containers, thus whatever you bring must be brought back with you, even orange peels as not to mess with the pristine habitat.

Island Packers also provides island adventures services for camping, kayaking, whale watching, school field trips, sightseeing, and harbor cruises. A map is given so you can plot your hiking but a naturalist led hike was available by a park ranger once on the island.

Since we didn’t book kayaks in advance, there happened to be only one spot available on the island with the organized couple hour kayak excursion part of Channel Islands Adventure Company (www.islandkayaking.com). Since we read part of the tour includes open ocean waters and caves where the water can jostle you back and forth, I would only recommend this venture for experienced kayakers.

If you wish to venture to more islands, Island Packers “shuttles” from Santa Cruz to other islands, mainly for campers for a minimal fee.

They’re available from Scorpion Anchorage (East Santa Cruz Island) to Santa Rosa Island, as well

as from Santa Rosa to Prisoners Harbor (Mid Santa Cruz Island). They also have them from San Miguel to Santa Rosa Island. Any of the shuttles need to coordinate with the island trip as Santa Rosa does not run daily. At this time, there are no shuttles from Santa Cruz Island to or from Anacapa Island.

The “Two Island Trip” departs approximately 2 dates a month (see under “special trips” on their website). This departs at 8:30 to Prisoners Harbor mid Santa Cruz Island for about 2 hours ashore and then land on Anacapa Island for 2 hours, returning to Ventura at 5:00 p.m.

Use Oxnard as your base Stay at the affordable Hampton Inn by Hilton with room balconies overlooking the Channel Islands Harbor, a perfect spot for watching the sunset from your room and walking along the harbor waterways. Get to know the fifth largest harbor in California in a gondola ride with Gondola Paradiso under bridges and through canals in the Channel Islands Harbor. Six people can fit in one boat and you can bring along wine or your favorite beverage for this hourlong experience.

Oxnard’s rich agricultural history allows fresh farm to table offerings at many of Oxnard’s family-owned restaurants. For a memorable dinner head to local favorite La Dolce Vita Ristorante in a Victorian home in Heritage Square where Italian and seafood reign supreme

but we encourage you to sample the grilled onion soup and pumpkin ravioli. The homes in this area were brought in around 1991 and turned into restaurants and businesses while preserving the architectural and historical uniqueness of turn of the century Oxnard. Sidle downstairs post-dinner to the 1901 Speakeasy Lounge for Prohibition-style cocktails with house-made infused liquors. Prices can’t be beat coming from LA. For casual seafood like fish and chips, clam chowder, fish tacos, and a raw bar, eat outside at Sea Fresh on the patio harborside.

In Downtown Oxnard, easily create your own Taco Trail as taco joints can be found on every block. Standouts included Pepe’s Mexican Food taqueria at the tip of the Channel Islands harbor and Tacos La Bonita for Vampiros, beef barbacoa atop griddled cheese in handmade deep-fried tortillas. Wash the tacos down at a microbrewery like Casa Agria Specialty Ales known for their sours and hazy IPAs. Try the Coconut Guava Frutaleta and Porter with Ragamuffin Roast Coffee. At Red Tandem Brewery sip a beer sampler with strawberry blond ale and at The Annex Food Hall, more suds await at Bottle and Pint Oxnard. However, save room to try a variety of exciting bites like Burnin Mouth chicken sandwiches, Silver Lake Ramen, Love Pho 805 boba tea, or a waffle desert on a stick from Don Waffly.

T H E N AU T I LU S,

MALDIVES: A PLACE WHERE FREEDOM TO 'JUST BE' WITHOUT RESTRICTIONS IS THE MANTRA.

Desirably located along the sparkling blue waters on Thiladhoo Island, lies a luxury beach haven where reality is better than any paradise you could ever imagine, -- The Nautilus Beach and Ocean Houses in the Maldives. With its proximity to Hanifaru Bay, this stunning resort is an ideal escape for those who want a secluded stay of luxury that is second to none. Upon arrival, it is quickly apparent why this tropical destination sets the highest standard for a private oasis on the sea. It all starts at the Male airport, with bags quickly whisked away you are personally escorted to a VIP lounge, your time in paradise is officially about to begin. A pre conversation with your residence butler decides on the customization of your stay even before your arrival, as attention to detail is of highest importance with each guest. Preferred temperature of your private fresh-water pool, sizing for robe/slippers, mask/fins, pillow type, water preference, you name it, they have thought of it.

As you enter your over-water bungalow, your eyes are immediately drawn to a glass floor panel giving you a bird's eye view to the glimmering ocean below. After a quick gaze at the tropical marine display beneath your feet your eyes take you to the spacious wooden sundeck fully equipped with a private infinity pool with the most breathtaking Indian Ocean view.

As your plane lands in the clearest of turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean a sense of utter peace comes over you, if there is a heaven on earth, it has been found. The term barefoot luxury could not fit in any better here, unlike any other resort in the Maldives the way of life at Nautilus is as easy as it gets. No dress code, no opening or closing times, no schedules, just come as you are whenever you choose. This way of life sounds almost too good to be true for a super exclusive resort of this stature but that is a large part of what makes the Nautilus, Maldives stand out in a league of its own.

Choose from one of the property’s 26 beach and ocean houses that are equally beautiful inside and out, with personalized touches seen all throughout your residence. As you enter your over-water bungalow, your eyes are immediately drawn to a glass floor panel giving you a bird's eye view to the glimmering ocean below. After a quick gaze at the tropical marine display beneath your feet your eyes take you to the spacious wooden sundeck fully equipped with a private infinity pool with the most breathtaking Indian Ocean views one could ever dream of. Bohemian décor, the plushest of bedding paired with state-of-the-art technology creates a relaxing space to fully rejuvenate after a busy day of traveling. As you continue to explore your room, you pay notice to the plushest of luxury amenities; chilled champagne, gourmet dessert bites from the resorts pastry chef, and an exotic fruit platter are just a few of the offerings left by your appointed butler.

With bags unpacked it is time to fully melt into the pure bliss of the resort's no-schedule vibe, robe and slippers in tow, you slide into the most peaceful afternoon nap in recent memory. After some much needed post flight shut eye, you awake fully refreshed ready to take in the best that the Maldives has to offer. The perfect way to start your vacation anxiously awaits, poolside sunset cocktail hour, yes please! A quick 2-minute stroll across the overwater walkway you arrive barefoot at one of the most desirable locations of the resort, Naiboli Poolside Bar. Bask in supreme comfort as you listen to the soothing sounds of the resort's live entertainment, a Maldivian singer/songwriter that seamlessly blends in with the tropical island breeze moving through the air.

Canapés and handcrafted cocktails are served as you sit back and enjoy this perfect moment in time, one that you will remember for the rest of your life.

Unscripted Dining With 4 premier dining options available on property and a mantra of anything, anytime guests are in for a culinary adventure of a lifetime. The staff at the Nautilus Resort shows pure delight in veering off script when it comes not only to their dining program but with every aspect of the resort. Champagne and chocolate dipped strawberries for breakfast in bed, sushi at midnight, you name it, the team of chefs will work diligently to serve you with

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the highest of pleasure.

Thyme The resort's all day dining venue Thyme is a meeting place for all things good. This open air beachfront cozy restaurant acts as a home base for guests due to its warm, inviting atmosphere and fun loving, dedicated staff. Start your day off toes in the sand while you sip on a green smoothie gazing out onto the azure waters before you. Each morning like clockwork an exotic fruit platter and fresh baked pastries arrive to your table summoning you taste each savory and sweet bite. With the anything, anytime rule that rings true throughout the entire resort the Maldivian Lobster Curry sounds like the perfect breakfast option, wouldn't you agree? Whatever you fancy, tell your server and the team of chefs will make it, customized just the way you like it, now if that isn't true top-notch service, we don't know what is! Lobster Curry for breakfast, Sushi for lunch, Thai food for dinner, anything any THYME! Naiboli The meeting place every night at 5pm for the idyllic Maldivian sunset, Naiboli serves as a place for great conversation, live entertainment and a poolside bar that serves up the finest of cocktails. Time slows down to a pace where life is as easy as it gets, pull up a lounger and kick back listening to the island sounds around you. Gourmet canapés are served poolside all throughout the day in the supreme comfort of loungers and cabanas. Feet up, glass of wine in hand, this is how you live life to the fullest Maldivian style!

Ocaso “Fine dining amid pristine sands” The team of chefs at Ocaso take pride in using the very best of ingredients, creating masterpiece menu items day in and day out.

With a culmination of flavors derived from Latin America to the furthest reach of North Asia you will be in for a chef inspired meal you soon won’t forget. Specializing in Japanese, Mexican and Peruvian, using the highest quality seafood, meats, and local produce it is no surprise that Ocaso is well known as one of the premier restaurants in all the Maldives. Teppanyaki grilled Maldivian lobster, local prawns, and fresh line-caught fish, it simply doesn't get much better than this. Sit back with one of their many wine varieties (over 200 labels of fine wines from around the globe) and watch the show as the chefs display the highest of skills creating a meal fit for a king.

Zeytoun Lounge & Restaurant The resort's signature fine dining restaurant Zeytoun serves Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in arguably the most preferred location on the entire island. With 4 exclusive private tables jutting out like wooden pods you feel like you are completely

alone in paradise over the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean.

Sit back and allow the team of chefs to tantalize your taste buds while they showcase lesser-known spices and indigenous recipes that make up the many cultures of the Maldives and surrounding countries. Enjoy awe-inspiring sunsets, heavenly moonscapes, and the warm Maldivian ocean breeze with champagne glass in hand, now this is what we call “dinner in style”.

Activities There is no shortage of ways to spend your days in paradise at the Nautilus Resort. Bucket list items around each corner make for the ultimate Maldivian beach escape. From time spent aboard Nautilus One, the resort's private yacht, to swimming with the mysterious Giant Manta Rays, one thing is for sure, memories will be made each day. Fitness lovers marvel at the resort's state-of-the-art gym facility fully equipped with the latest and greatest cardiovascular, strength and core modalities. Indoor workouts not your thing? No worries, Nautilus staff have you more than covered with a plethora of aquatic adventures ranging from world class snorkeling on the house reef, to big game fishing on a private luxury boat all the way to high octane jet ski rides through the clear blue Maldivian waters.

If Scuba diving is of your preference, you are in for an absolute treat being exposed to arguably the most colorful and thriving reef systems on this entire planet. With access to over 40 unique dive sites run by AquaNautica PADI Dive center you will be in the best of hands while you dive into the deep blue waters of the UNESCO biosphere of the Baa Atoll. Diving with whale sharks, giant Manta Rays, sea turtles, sharks, and a variety of colorful marine life in the magical reefs of Hanifaru Bay, this truly is the pinnacle of underwater adventures.

EDITOR'S PICK

Private Dining Experiences The quintessential icing on the cake at the Nautilus resort is the dine anywhere, anytime mantra that can and will create once in a lifetime memories that are sure to last forever. From being dropped off on your own secluded sand bank for a private BBQ dinner to breakfast for two aboard a luxury yacht, the team at Nautilus revels in making fantasies a reality. A true highlight of all the Nautilus private dining experiences surely has to be the cinema under the stars dinner for two. Simply choose any movie of your desire, from the latest releases to timeless classics and the team will create a romantic dinner for two using a stranded sailboat as the movie screen. Your very own appointed chef will take the helm as you sit hand in hand gazing out onto the stars above, a private grill assembled nearby on the beach, this will go down as one of the best meals of your existence. Grilled lobster, fresh prawns, locally caught fish, the finest cuts of meat and a wine list that is sure to impress, this is as good as it gets. After dinner simply a few steps away your cinema under the stars awaits. Toes in the sand, champagne in hand, sit back in your plush bean bag and take it all in, a 5-star dining experience you will never forget.

Solasta Spa Your pinnacle of relaxation awaits at the wondrous delight of Solasta 52

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Spa. A sense of pure and utter stillness will overcome you as you set foot into this one of its kind spa sanctuary. The most warm, caring staff of internationally trained therapists will be at your very beckon call from the moment you arrive, the utmost beauty that surrounds you will instantly bring ease to your soul. Three glass-bottomed, over-water pavilions await guests anytime of the day with a plethora of stress melting treatments ranging from the lightest of meditation sessions to deep tissue sports massage. Begin or end your treatment in the sauna, steam bath or open-air bath, no schedules, no rush, no stress. Looking for something to bring pure holistic health to your mind, body and soul? Opt for one of the many specialty treatments offered on-site such as Elan: Spa Morning dawn of Senses which combines an invigorating body brush, followed by a cleansing facial, and finishing up with an immersive steam bath with infusions of light mint, bramble, nettle and Alchemilla or choose the Omorovicza massage which harnesses the healing power of Hungary's mineral rich waters which are then infused into an exclusive range of healing oils that are used in your deep tissue massage.

The Nautilus Maldives holiday season is something you don’t want to miss, and this year’s festivities include a long list of creative activities and magical offerings. From Treasure Hunts, Elf Zumba, a Christmas

EDITORS' PICK

Crab Race, a Tropical Concoctions Master Class, Bubble Shows on the Beach and Maldivian Cooking Classes, to a curated Chocolate Room chock-full of handmade treats. Their cinema under the stars program will debut a few holiday movies including The Grinch and A Christmas Carol and if that wasn’t festive enough you can even skydive into 2022 to start the year off with an adrenaline rush.

The Nautilus Resort envelops all one could ever expect of a dream vacation spent in a Maldivian paradise.

From the moment you set foot onto the purest of white sands until the very last sad goodbye the level of service is at the pinnacle of the luxury hotel industry. Between its awe-inspiring accommodations, unending selection of customizable excursions, and the highest level of internationally inspired culinary adventures, it is easy to see why so many discerning travelers rate this retreat as one of the best resorts in all of the Maldives.

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Discovering Dubai: Your Guide to Exploring the City of the Future

A city in its own league, Dubai is like no other on this planet.

Although typically seen as a stopover to many exotic locations due to its geographical location there is so much more to this city than meets the eye. Often called the “Las Vegas of the Middle East” with its unending hotels, restaurants, and non-stop entertainment one could easily argue that this comparison could be looked at as a little unfair. One of the wealthiest cities in the world Dubai brings a level of luxury and highclass entertainment that is second to none; audacious architecture, the world's tallest skyscrapers all surrounded by white sandy beaches, a true new kind of modern metropolis.

It is no wonder this desert oasis has quickly risen to one of the most popular travel destinations on the planet. Where else can you ski indoors, shop at the largest mall in the world, climb to the 124th floor of the world's tallest building, dine in an underwater restaurant, and relax at a 5-star beach club all in the same day? Although Dubai comes with its own set of rules (predominantly a Muslim country and with this comes traditions and laws unlike other destinations) you will find boundaries are pushed to the limit in all parts of the city. The desire and allure to set Guinness World Records is what sets Dubai above the rest on a global scale with sights that include the Burj Khalifa the tallest tower in the world and the world's largest indoor theme park, water fountain, deepest pool, fastest roller coaster, you name the record, they have either set it or broke it.

Where to Stay-Burj Al Arab As your private Rolls Royce arrives at the airport to chauffeur you towards the shores of the city, you can't help but marvel at the aweinspiring architecture and natural beauty all around you. A plethora of modern buildings line white, sandy coastlines that stretch out as far as the eye can see. Anticipation grows as you drive over the bridge to a private island where your home away from home awaits, the luxurious Burj Al Arab Hotel. Between the resort's innovative design and the inclusion of four pools, a private beach, and a world-class spa, it is easy to see why this Jumeirah Group property is not only a global icon but has also been awarded the title of top hotel in the world year after year.

Towering at 321 meters above the sea, this 7-star hotel is even more impressive inside than out. Its uniquely curved shape evokes the sail of a dhow, (a traditional Arab water vessel) yet many know the 54

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Burj Al Arab for its one-of-a-kind ultra-modern design complete with a world famous heli pad. This heli pad is so world renowned it has been said it could have its own Instagram account for all the action that takes place on its platform.

Tiger Woods' tee shots, Roger Federer and Andre Agassi's tennis exhibition, China's top male and female table tennis players match, Nick Jacobsen's death-defying kite boarding jump, world famous DJ sets, you name it, it has been done there.

As you enter the lobby, you immediately notice aquarium walls and gold-plated columns that lead your eyes up to the ceiling of the hotel's 56 floors. It is quite evident that the level of luxury is second to none with 1,790 square meters of 24- carat gold constructed throughout the interior. The hotel is home to the largest Swarovski crystal ceiling in the world with 24,000 square meters of Statuario marble used throughout the hotel, leaving no doubt why this hotel is quite simply stated, to be in a league of its own. After a quick check-in at the front desk, you make your way up to your private suite, where all the stresses of life seamlessly melt away before your eyes. From the first swipe of your room card, you are transported into a world of opulence that is unlike any other resort stay you have ever experienced. Each room at the Burj Al Arab offers stunning panoramic views of either the ocean or city skyline paired with ultra-comfortable furnishings that invite you to fully unwind before exploring the city. Worldclass butler service and a 24-hour concierge set the tone from the moment you enter your suite, so perfect that you may never want to leave. Each suite comes with a private living room with a dedicated powder room, master bathroom with full sized Jacuzzi, a five-head rain shower, duvets filled with eiderdown harvested from abandoned duck nests in Iceland, pillow menus, these are just some of the luxuries that await you in

the world's top hotel. After time well spent fully immersed in the luxury of your suite trade in the ultra-comfort of your robe and slippers and make your way to the resort's world-class Talise Spa. Perched 150 meters high on the hotel's 18th floor above the gulf coast, guests are invited to the ultimate destination for tranquility and rejuvenation. A plethora of luxurious treatments range from couple's massages, body scrubs, hydrating facials, manicure and pedicure treatments to ensure you leave with a restorative state of well-being. For workout enthusiasts opt for a swim in the indoor Infinity pool or enjoy a workout session at their state-of-the-art fitness facility complete with gorgeous views of Dubai's skyline.

There are no shortage of dining options on property with a choice of eight incredible restaurants to choose from it is safe to say you are in for a culinary journey of a lifetime. From opening day in 1999 the Jumeirah Group has solidified a standard of superiority that has only risen to new levels since the hotel's inception. Proteges of the famed Joel Robuchon's school of excellence chef Francky Semblat and Kim Joinié-Maurin bring daily flair to the hotel's menus that continue to impress guests day in and day out.

For a breakfast experience you won’t soon forget make sure to start your morning off at Al Iwan, a place where gold and red ruby tones are juxtaposed against the scenic blue waters of the Arabian Gulf only a stone's throw away.

A hand delivered yogurt cart sets the tone for a meal fit for royalty accompanied by fresh pastries, exotic fruit displays, and endless delectable menu items combined which make for the perfect way to start the day.

Al Mahara the hotel's signature aquarium restaurant gives guests the feeling that they are dining at the bottom of the Arabian Gulf.

Helmed by Kim Joinié-Maurin (a 55

two-time Michelin starred chef from previous restaurants) expect only the finest innovative seafood dishes that not only burst with flavor but are presented in a way that only a true artiste could construct. The stunning floor to ceiling aquarium sets the scene for a one of kind dining experience where guests can enjoy the finest caviar, oysters and the freshest of seafood flown in daily.

Three-time Michelin star recipient Francky Semblat brings elevated French cuisine to new heights at Al Muntaha the hotel's fine dining restaurant situated on the 27th floor. Serving modern French cuisine with extreme attention to detail chef Semblat brings an international resume that is sure to impress. Generating inspiration from his time spent in Paris, Hong Kong and Shanghai this Joel Robuchon protege merges refinement, passion and fervor to each and every dish he serves. The ideal combination of world class cuisine melded with awe inspiring views is what guests can expect when they dine at Al Muntaha. Vast slanted glass windows offer the perfect gaze of the splendid Dubai coastline below, combine this with private label caviars, Tsarskaya oysters from France, Ceviche of Tasmanian salmon, Welsh lamb shoulder, the finest wine list in all of Dubai and you have the meal of a lifetime.

For a sophisticated yet casual dining experience, Sal offers a Mediterranean vibe that brings the island breeze of Ibiza to the shores of Dubai. The hotel's most relaxed, casual dining venue guests can opt to sit indoors or poolside to take in the incredulous views that are offered of the Arabian gulf just mere feet away. Perched on the Burj Al Arab terrace Sal presents a new bright and fresh perspective of the hotel offering a spectacular setting, impeccable service and 56 HOLIDAY 2021

an immersive atmosphere. Chef Roberto Rispoli brings his inspiration to Sal (which translates to “salt” in Spanish) from the Iberian Peninsula showcasing a menu that is bursting with innovation, flavor and style.

Choose from delectable menu offerings such as the 3 Pescada Stew, Wild Crab on Rye Toast or the Seafood Rice Cataplana filled with Langoustines, Calamari, Clams, Crabs, Prawns and more. For those looking to take the party outdoors opt for dining in style in your very own air-conditioned cabana with full service at one of the hotel's two pools.

Located seaside at the iconic Jumeirah Al Naseem hotel next door, Summersalt Beach Club offers guests a fully immersive beach club experience that is second to none. Enjoy full access to the hotel's private white sandy beach, shimmering pool, sun beds and loungers for the ultimate Dubai beach escape. Plenty of indoor and outdoor seating is available with a casual yet sophisticated Mediterranean vibe making for the perfect lunch or brunch spot seven days a week. Tantalizing menu options bring guests in day and night with offerings such as the Mesclun Lettuce & Crispy Soft-Shell Crab, Mauritian Curry Wrap or the fan favorite Linguini Pasta with sauteed Prawns. Chill poolside listening to the curated sounds from the resident DJ while you sip handcrafted cocktails, the quintessential way to spend a day in the hot Dubai sunshine!

DRIFT AWAY WITH VIP ACCESS It is safe to say that the white sandy shores of Dubai are home to some of the most visited beach clubs in the world. With an ooze of sophistication DRIFT Beach Club sits among the top places to see and be seen with its ultraprivate beachfront, sparkling infinity pool and incredulous views of the Dubai Marina skyline. Located at the One & Only Royal

Mirage Dubai, Drift Beach Club overlooks prime beachfront real estate surrounded by lush foliage, over-sized cabanas, and poolside loungers. Since its opening day DRIFT has been luring in its guests with its ultra-exclusive chic urban vibe where one can fully relax and whisk the day away.

Under the supervision of Chef de Cuisine Sylvain Noel DRIFT showcases a medley of flavor bursting dishes with his playful take on classic Provencal cuisine. Using only the best sustainable, organic, fresh ingredients guests are treated to a medley of tantalizing menu options to go perfectly with their handcrafted cocktails curated by mixologist Ruslan Svezhenko. Items such as the Wasabi Basil Crispy Prawns, Black Truffle Pizza or the DRIFT Shawarma perfectly paired with a salted watermelon margarita or the Provence Spritz make for the ultimate day in paradise.

CALLING ALL ADVENTURE SEEKERS For adrenaline seekers looking to push the limits, Dubai is an extremist playground.

Let your sightseeing begin as you reach new heights at Xline Dubai. With two different zip lines to choose from, this extreme tourism experience allows riders to see the city in an entirely new way. Soar through the high-rise towers, past the sparkling waterfront as you brave the world's longest urban zipline, the "Xline Dubai Marina." After a safety briefing from Dubai Xline's dedicated team, your descent starts from a 170-meter-high platform as you plunge headfirst across the modern skyline enjoying scenic views of the Dubai Eye and the Palm Jumeirah until your feet touch down at the Dubai Marina Mall. One of the most insta-worthy adrenaline rides in the world it is for good reason Xline Dubai has quickly risen to the top of must dos when paying a visit to the City of Gold. Created as a

double-lined experience, visitors also have the option to experience this thrill with a partner, making this top-rated tourist attraction a must-go for brave couples and families. Keep in mind kids must be 12 years or older to ride, and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

If a rush on the ground level is more up to your speed, take to the track at Dubai Autodrome. Named UAE's first fully integrated multipurpose motorsport and entertainment facility, this attraction includes a race school, indoor and outdoor karting tracks, a Motorsport Business Park, and even a VIP Paddock hospitality area. Just a short 25-minute car ride from Dubai, you can find yourself getting ready for the ride of your life!

Get behind the wheel as you choose between 13 heart-pumping driving experiences ranging from 6 laps in a twin-turbo Mclaren MP 4-12 C, to an hour and a half instruction course in a Ferrari GT. For those looking to fully adrenalize opt for the F1 Experience where you can drive either the F1 Jaguar 2000 or the F1 Arrows 2002 which will put you in a league of very few that have ever been to this level of power and speed. Get the feel of driving the same cars previously driven by famous Formula One drivers Heinz-Harald Frentzen and Eddie Irvine, this is how you race Dubai in style! For the ultimate race day, upgrade your experience by including 'Extra Laps' and the 'In-Car' video. The 'Drive Now' add-on allows visitors to experience an even wider range of supercar thrills that will leave you planning your next visit back on the raceway long after your visit ends.

Water activities are in no shortage in Dubai, but a day spent at Aquaventure (the world's largest waterpark) at Atlantis Dubai offers stomach-dropping thrills and hands-on animal

encounters that are truly a step above the rest. With over 79 record breaking slides and attractions along with 1km of a private, white sandy beach, the hardest decision of your visit will be where to start. If heart pumping, adrenaline surging rides are your vibe you have come to the right place. No shortage of thrill seeking turns and drops here, solo, tandem or group whichever you go you are in for an aquaventure of a lifetime! Brave the waves on the Odyssey of Terror, boasted as the world's largest waterslide. For some good old energizing family fun, the Shockwave is the longest family water coaster in the world with a series of dark tunnels and winding drops that will leave you screaming the entire way through! A triple threat of speed, power and rafting its all systems go as you tear down 449 meters of pure fun! Get re-energized with a bite at Barracudas, a casual restaurant serving American dishes combined with tropical flavors of the sea that will keep you feeling satisfied the rest of your adrenaline pumping day. Animal lovers (aren't we all?) make sure to visit the world-renowned Dolphin Bay animal habitat. Book one of their many bucket list activities ranging from a behindthe-scenes habitat tour to a dolphin dip and play package that ends with you posing for a picture with your newest love of your life.

Other highlights include the Sea Lion Cove and the Lost Chambers Aquarium, UAE's largest underwater home for sea life, with over 65,000 marine animals for viewers to see.

Want to get an up and close look at all the amazing sea creatures that call the Ambassador Lagoon their home? Try the AquaTrek Extreme, the world's deepest AquaTrek experience which allows guests to descend to a depth of 30 feet, now that's what we call living in the moment!

look no further than Arabian Adventures Desert Safari. Leading tourism experts will guide you through what most call the perfect day trip excursion where you will be immersed in a multi-cultural and adventure experience of a lifetime. A guided driver will pick you up outside your hotel lobby and then transfer you to a landscape of rippling dunes in the isolated Arabian desert, where a unique cultural experience awaits. From early morning excursions to rugged Jeep safaris, Arabian Adventures has something for everyone. Start off your day with an exhilarating sand dune drive that will be sure to awaken your senses, a professionally trained driver showcasing incredible skills of twists and turns! Sandboarding, wildlife sighting, and henna hand painting are just a few of the many unique activities’ guests can participate in, and when in Dubai, make sure to try a camel ride! For the perfect way to end the day there is nothing better than the Evening Desert in Dubai package. Riding camels to a private historically inspired camp is the ideal setting for an authentic BBQ dinner offering the best regional fare. Tanoura and fire dancers add exciting entertainment for guests to enjoy, making this experience the best for dining under the stars.

The City of Gold, a place that could never be fully experienced in one visit. A destination that truly has only been in its modernized state for a few decades yet strives to grow immensely with each passing year. With a large part of Dubai currently under new construction it is safe to say that the best is yet to come. Between its rich culture, immaculate hotels, exhilarating attractions, and a thriving culinary scene, it's easy to understand why a trip to the UAE is unlike any other on this planet.

For the ultimate desert thrill seeking adventure

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Travel Influencers: Who to watch in 2022

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2022 is right around the corner and we as a traveling community have a lot of catching up to do after this pandemic! There is no denying that travel Instagram influencers get to do what few can but even they had to slow down a bit in 2020.

Since many of us are itching for adventure and some even a new career change, we’ve compiled a list of travel influencers and bloggers to watch in order to prepare for the upcoming travel season. Get a glimpse at how they got their start and see the world through their lens. Learn about their upcoming ventures, travel hacks and lessons they have learned along the way!

Matt Kepnes @NOMADICMATT

Tell us how you got into traveling as a blogger? Where did it all start?

I didn’t take my first trip overseas until I was 23. Travel wasn't really on my radar, aside from the standard two-week vacation. Long-term travel wasn't something I had ever thought of; I didn't even know was an option! For that first trip, I went to Costa Rica. The experience changed my life. It opened me up to all the possibilities the world had to offer.

From that moment on, I was hooked.

The following year, I went to Thailand. There, I met five backpackers who showed me that I didn’t have to be tied down to my job or be rich to travel.

They showed me you can travel on a budget with surprisingly little money, which opened my eyes even further. After that trip, I flew home, finished my MBA, quit my cubicle job, and, eventually left on a long-term trip that hasn't really ended.

Along the way, I started teaching English in Thailand to make money so I could continue to travel. I also started a website to document my travels.

My original goal was to become a travel writer for publications like Lonely Planet. My website was just a way to show off my writing and travel experience and to keep friends and family back home up to date.

Eventually, though, the website became popular on its own. Apparently, people wanted travel stories and tips straight from the source. So, I continued working on my blog and eventually started to make a little money from it. That's when I knew that "blogging" could become a job.

Twelve years later, I'm still blogging away!

How far in advance do you start packing and do you have any packing tips to share with our readers?

For most of my trips, I fly carry-on only. That means I just bring one 40L backpack and a small day bag. By keeping my packing minimal, it forces me to avoid the pitfalls of over packing. At the end of the day, you can buy pretty much everything you need overseas so there's no need to pack every single item you have. If you need something while you're abroad, just buy it.

For most travelers, I would say stick to a 40L backpack and a day bag.

Unless you need bulky camping gear or items for cold climates, a 40L backpack and a day bag will suffice. That will force you to pare down your packing and keep things minimal. Remember, you must carry your backpack everywhere you go. Filling a huge 60 or 70-liter bag is just going to make things challenging when you must chase down a bus to squeeze into a taxi. When it comes to packing, less is best!

You have been to some extraordinary places, what is your best travel memory?

While it's impossible to pick just one, one memory that stands out is the month I spent hanging out on Ko Lipe in Thailand. I serendipitously met some other travelers and ended up changing my travel plans to meet them on the island. It was super remote and off the grid at the time, and for an entire month we just hung out and had fun. It was a simple month, but to this day it's one of my fondest travel memories.

Are you a step-by-step planner or do you like to go with the flow and see where the trip takes you?

Both! Before I leave on a trip, I usually plan out my entire route, read books

and guidebooks about the destination, and learn as much as I can about the culture. I really love planning a trip.

However, once I get on the ground, I usually throw out most of my itinerary and just wing it. Most of the time, you'll learn new tips and get advice from the locals and people you meet while traveling. That insider information is invaluable — but it often means having to change plans on a whim. While planning is important (and fun), I think being flexible is one of the most important qualities for long-term travelers.

How are you planning to take your business to the next level? Do you have any expansion plans as an influencer?

While COVID has thrown a wrench into some of our plans, things are slowing starting to get back on track. Recently, we've been focusing on expanding The Nomadic Network, our in-person and online travel community. We've been hosting tons of virtual events during the pandemic and are just now starting to get back into live in-person events. We have a new website for the community coming and have lots of plans in the works for 2022.

We've also brought back our travel conference, TravelCon, after a twoyear hiatus due to COVID. It's one of the biggest travel media events in the world so I'm excited for that to happen in the spring. We have a ton of amazing speakers lined up, as well as some writing and photography workshops. It's going to be epic!

For those that are just starting to travel which destination do you recommend for beginners?

I think there are tons of excellent destinations out there for beginners. It all just depends on your budget, travel style, and interests. That said, I think new backpackers can't go wrong in Thailand, Iceland, and New Zealand.

While the latter two are expensive, they are also easy to navigate and super safe. They're great for solo travelers (especially solo female travelers).

Thailand is one of my favorite places in the world. It's affordable and has a well-worn backpacker trail so it's easy to get around and has tons to see and do. There are amazing beaches, a fun nightlife, world-class diving, incredible food, and tons of natural parks to explore. I never get tired of visiting!

Who is your favorite travel companion?

Me! While I love traveling with friends and family, at the end of the day I'm a solo traveler at heart so I love heading out on my own adventures. It's the ultimate freedom.

Longest flight/travel time you’ve encountered?

I once spent 24.5 hours on a plane. It was during an aircraft's delivery voyage from the US to Singapore (via Japan). While super cool, that's also a bit too long to spend on an airplane!

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Lucielle Salomon @LUCIELLESALOMON

What other travel influencers do you follow and why? @SarahFunk, @OneikaTraveller, @atwbeauty and @ worldtowanderblog provide great travel perspectives.

How are you planning to take your business to the next level? Do you have any expansion plans as an influencer?

Besides being a content creator, my main area of work is as a sustainable fashion and beauty editor. I see myself growing in that direction and making an impact in that industry. My interest in travel has been an awesome source too how the beauty and fashion industry differs and functions in the different parts of the world.

Anywhere you haven’t been yet that you’re dying to go?

Hands down, I am so excited to one day go to South America.

Tell us how you got into traveling as an influencer? Where did it all start?

I’m a storyteller at heart and traveling has always fueled an enormous amount of stories for me to share with my loved ones. It naturally evolved once I started sharing my travel experiences and learnings on social media.

How far in advance do you start packing and do you have any packing tips to share with our readers?

Not going to lie but I’m a bit of a procrastinator when it comes to packing, so I typically pack the night before. I recommend you roll your clothes instead of folding them. It saves you so much space! Also, pack items that mix and match well to conserve space. People oftentimes bring ‘what if items’ that end up just occupying unnecessary space.

If you can limit yourself to just a carry-on, I can assure you that your travel experience will be much better.

You have been to some pretty extraordinary places, what is your best travel memory?

Ooh, this is a tough one. One of my most recent magical experiences was traveling around Switzerland. The Swiss views are just incredible, especially in Lake Lucerne. Book yourself a spa day at a resort and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and lake.

Are you a step-by-step planner or do you like to go with the flow and see where the trip takes you?

I’m a mix of both. But as I typically travel with my husband, we both try to lean on what on each other’s strengths. My husband works on the logistics of getting in and out of a place and I typically dive deep into what to do in those particulars spots. We both like to have an outline of our trip, with enough room for spontaneous moments. Nothing like seeing where the day takes you once you start chatting with locals.

Everyone needs a mentor, who is yours?

I don’t have an established mentor, but I do have multiple people that I gather inspiration from. Since my college days, Jennifer Walsh has been an unofficial mentor that I have followed online due to her dedication to natural beauty and the benefits of being outdoors.

Where/what type of research do you do before your trips?

My main mediums are Reddit, my community, other bloggers and Instagram.

How do you deal with jet lag?

I stay hydrated and try to eat the type of meal according to the local time. I typically stay awake until it’s actual nighttime.

For those that are just starting to travel which destination do you recommend for beginners?

Ooh, that’s a tough question. If you are eager to go to Europe, I would say visit England. The hospitality there is incredible, which always makes the trip more enjoyable.

Tell us the best food experience you have had on the road.

In 2019, my husband and I went on a two-week road trip throughout the U.S. southern cities and it was an incredible experience. I love a good comfort food voyage.

Who is your favorite travel companion?

My husband without a doubt. We complement each other so well.

Longest flight/travel time you’ve encountered?

A 17-hour flight from Singapore to San Francisco. It was brutal.

Tell us a travel fail you’ve experienced and how it worked out or didn't in the end?

I would say going somewhere without any prior research can be a bit of a fail. Although it often means you are open to seeing where the trip takes you, you can then miss out on some great experiences and sights.

Double-check your trip itinerary and make sure everything is booked for the same day you are looking for. One time on my way from Manchester to Edinburgh, we hopped on a train ride not until realizing when they were scanning our tickets that we had bought them for the following day. Thankfully, everything got figured out but we did look like fools for a minute as we were seated in what we thought was our spots. But we were occupying other people’s seats.

Alyssa Ramos @MYLIFESATRAVELMOVIE

Tell us how you got into traveling as an influencer? Where did it all start?

Technically I started traveling before the term “influencer” even existed! I gained the title by default! It all started 9 years ago, I was living in Los Angeles and working as a freelance writer, when I learned how blogs make money. I decided to start my own, first about Hollywood life, and then one day I just wanted something more in life than going to clubs and red carpet events, so I decided to go travel solo! It was a big deal back then because solo female travel was more of an awkward stereotype and scary concept rather than an empowering trend. I started posting photos on Instagram (of the back of my head only, refusing to show my face to avoid stereotypes that I “only get things because of my looks”) and they started to blow up! I kept posting the photos and writing tons of blog posts, and would also write cheeky articles on Huff Post that would go viral and gain me more followers.

A few years later, the term “influencer” was born, and I already had the brand and audience to qualify as one. It technically made my life a lot easier because I didn’t have to convince brands and companies that it was a real thing anymore, or that they should pay us for our hard work!

You have been to some pretty extraordinary places, what is your best travel memory?

This is impossible to answer since my bucketlist was about 1000 things long and I've done most of them! Some of my favorites though were Easter Island, Iguazu Falls, Svalbard, and number one is probably going to Antarctica, because that’s one place I thought I’d never ever get to go to because I thought I’d never be able to afford it and when I tried to pitch it initially as a collab five years ago, I got turned down nonstop because all of the tour companies said I didn’t fit their target audience, and that mine was too young. I came back with a counter offer to book 5 people in exchange for my spot, they didn’t believe I could do it, but I did, and I got to go! Now I have two more Antarctica trips planned for the next two years as group trips that I host.

Are you a step-by-step planner or do you like to go with the flow and see where the trip takes you?

Both. If it’s a bucketlist destination, I plan it meticulously to make sure I have time to see and do everything, and to also have time to work.

Being a blogger/influencer is non-stop work by the way...so after going out and experiencing things, you still have to take a ton of photos and videos, then edit everything, and post, but then there’s still all the admin work as well like negotiating deals, running my shop, and group trips.

But anyway! For “vacation” trips, I typically just go with the flow, and ask my followers who live there for tips. My dream trip is one I don’t have to plan for since that’s what I do for work. So when I get work collabs that have an itinerary, it’s amazing. Or a friend or partner who will actually plan things and not expect me to do it just because it’s my job!

Everyone needs a mentor, who is yours?

Patricia Schultz of 1000 Places to See Before You Die has been gracious enough to give me tips and advice throughout my travel career. It’s extra special to me because her book was the first travel book I ever bought, before I even started traveling!

What other travel influencers do you follow and why?

To be completely honest, I stay off social media most of the time since I have to do it for work. You wouldn’t hang out at your job when you’re not working, right? I’ve been fortunate to make friends with some really amazing travel influencers though who I now call friends and acquaintances, and they are basically the only ones in my feed! Some of them are Alex in Wanderland, GloGraphics, PilotMaria, Onieka the Traveler, Naomi Adams, and Brian Kelly (ThePointsGuy).

How are you planning to take your business to the next level? Do you have any expansion plans as an influencer?

I’ve already expanded quite a bit. I’d actually consider myself more of an entrepreneur than an influencer, and as one, you must know to continuously expand and start new ventures. My current expansions are hosting group trips (which I was one of the first influencers to do five years ago), writing books, starting an online shop, designing eco-friendly recycled plastic swimwear, and working on a show series. Next I would like to start investing in properties to rent out to nomads!

For those that are just starting to travel which destination do you recommend for Beginners?

Anywhere in Europe, because once you get there, it’s soooo cheap to travel to other countries! Maybe London for beginners since they speak English, since signs and directions in other languages can be intimidating and confusing at first!

Tell us the best food experience you have had on the road.

The sushi in Japan is AMAZING! I also really love Mexican food, so Playa del Carmen or Sayulita is high on my list as well, especially because they have veg/pescatarian options, like Jackfruit tacos!

Who is your favorite travel companion?

My dog Oscar, of course!

Tell us a travel fail you’ve experienced and how it worked out or didn’t in the end?

So many of these ha-ha! But the difference between an ordeal and an adventure is your attitude! I guess the worst fail was that I flipped a car in Patagonia with three other people in it. In the end it “worked out” because no one was injured, a couple in a campervan happened to be driving passed us (we were in the middle of nowhere) and gave us a ride back into town, and I had gotten insurance on it, so I didn’t have to pay that much more (cool $3k). Then we still ended up going to the destination we were aiming for anyway...but in a more solid vehicle, and using a tour company. I’m actually going back there this December with 20 of my followers!

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Gabby Beckford @PACKSLIGHT

For those with limited time frames, I'd highly recommend going to your favorite bloggers website and finding an itinerary of what they've done.

I also get a lot of inspiration from Netflix TV shows like Blue Planet or The World's Most Amazing Vacation Rentals.

Tell us how you got into traveling as an influencer? Where did it all start?

I started my blog as a hobby in college. By the time I was a senior in college, I knew that I didn't want to go into the field in which I was studying (engineering), and instead that I liked being a creative and would like to do it full-time. I worked two years as an engineer for a government contractor in Baltimore Maryland, and then quit that job to travel full-time, with my blog and brand still almost as a hobby… the pandemic hit the United States three weeks after I did that. for the year of 2020 I spent indoors quarantining at my parents’ house, growing my blog and business all the while. When 2021 came around, I decided it was now or never. I left the United States for Dubai in early January and have been traveling the world ever since.

How far in advance do you start packing and do you have any packing tips to share with our readers?

I change destinations every 2 to 6 weeks. I live out of one checked bag, and one carry on, so I have limited items. I've unpacked and we packed my suitcase so often that I just packed the day of now, though I recommend most people 2 pack at least the night before. When it comes to packing tips, my favorites are to pack clothing of the same color scheme. It makes it easier to mix and match, and you get to pack less.

Pack carry-on only whenever possible. You do not want to be on vacation in missing a suitcase. It happens, trust me. Use packing cubes. It will keep you organized, and safety space.

What other travel influencers do you follow and why?

Off the top of my head, @heyciara because we met in real life this year on a press trip to the Republic of Georgia and instantly clicked like sisters. I haven't laughed so heartily or been so goofy with someone new in a minute. @ashleeemajormoss because I’m obsessed with British accents and hearing her stories feeds my soul and @jofranco because I’m manifesting her life for myself.

How are you planning to take your business to the next level? Do you have any expansion plans as an influencer?

I have an online course that I want to be mandatory high school curriculum one day. I'm writing an autobiography and I was asked to host a few TV shows before the pandemic. I'd like to get those back on track in 2022. I will also be speaking as a travel expert at most of the leading travel blogging conferences next year.

Where/what type of research do you do before your trips?

Honestly oh, I like to post in Facebook groups and on my social media and asked who lives in the destination that I'm going to. Once I find those people, I asked them what neighborhood they recommend I stay in. Then I get on the ground, meet up with them, and that's when I plan my itinerary. That's the benefit of slow travel, you can take things slowly.

How do you deal with jet lag?

One of my blessings in life is that I can fall asleep at anytime, anywhere.

Never dealt with insomnia. As soon as I get on a plane (where I always book a window seat) I pass out. If I still have jet lag end my destination, I have no shame in taking 20-minute power naps to get through the day.

For those that are just starting to travel which destination do you recommend for beginners?

As far as internationally: Iceland, Puerto Rico, Dubai, London, Spain.

Domestically, you can go to Little Havana in Miami to get a taste of Cuba. You can go to Chinatown, New York City or Los Angeles to get a real taste of China. There are little Poland's, little Jamaica's, Little Ethiopia’s–little ethnic communities all over you and the US. That would take the time to learn the history of the people who settled there and enjoy learning about their culture and food. There’s probably one in your city!

Tell us the best food experience you have had on the road.

Some of the best food I've had in all my travels, and even all of my life, was in Mexico City. And I'm not just talking Mexican food: sushi, Italian food, Vietnamese pho… They have it all. It’s a food haven.

Who is your favorite travel companion?

My mom, of course.

Longest flight/travel time you’ve encountered?

Either flying from Washington DC to Los Angeles to Sydney Australia or flying Washington DC to New York City to Tokyo to Okinawa Japan.

Around 24 hours of flight.

Tell us a travel fail you’ve experienced and how it worked out or didn’t in the end?

This summer I spent three weeks exploring turkey. I had a friend who lived in Cypress, who last minute invited me to stay with her and visit the island. Without a thought, I said yes and started planning. What I didn't know was that turkey and Cyprus are in longtime land feud. It is about a 30-minute flight from the island of Cyprus, but I had to fly from Antalya, to Germany, to Greece, and then into Cyprus during a pandemic. Which meant multiple Health travel forms, sprinting through Frankfurt International Airport ( the worst connection airport ever), my bags getting lost in one of the layovers, and being held by Cyprus police for questions of why I was flying from turkey that day. Ultimately, everything ended up just fine, but I would recommend double-checking if the countries you're flying between are friendly or not, and triple checking covid travel requirements as they change almost hourly. The best piece of advice I can give though is that nothing will ever go exactly according to plan. Embrace the spontaneity, for better or worse, because that is what it means to live fully. Everything is a part of the adventure, and don't let anything rain on your parade.

Becky Van Dijk @BECKYVANDIJK

How far in advance do you start packing and do you have any packing tips to share with our readers?

I pack at least a week before a trip! I am a very organized person and like to plan well in advance so I typically start laying everything out a week or so before a trip. I find this helps avoid last minute purchases at the airport when you realize you have forgotten something, or you had run out of sunscreen at home.

And that would probably also be my packing tip, make sure to start a few days to a week before so you can see if you are missing anything you need for the destination you are visiting and then you will still have time to order it before the trip.

What 5 things do you always travel with in your carry on?

Noise cancelling headphones; hand cream or moisturizer (especially for long flights); a kindle; my British Airways Fear of Flying book (yes, I have a fear of flying so I always carry this book and reference it throughout the flight! I highly recommend the BA fear of flying course or the book), a notebook and pen.

You have been to some pretty extraordinary places, what is your best travel memory?

I have been to so many amazing places, but probably one of the most amazing travel memories was visiting Holbox and Tulum in 2009 (before they became popular!) and specifically swimming with whale sharks off the island of Holbox. The water was so clear and we were fortunate to get the most amazing experience swimming nearby to the whale sharks.

Are you a step-by-step planner or do you like to go with the flow and see where the trip takes you?

Even though I am super organized with my packing, I am not much of a planner when it comes to the trip itself! It generally depends on the length of the trip for how much we plan out, for a short weekend I might book a few things in advance, but generally I like to just see where the trip takes me, chat to locals and get recommendations and take it one day at a time!

What other travel influencers do you follow and why?

I love to follow Renee Roaming, her adventures are spectacular and inspire to become more outdoorsy. Not sure I will ever be a mountain hiker, but her account makes me dream that one day I will!

How are you planning to take your business to the next level?

Do you have any expansion plans as an influencer? I have expanded my business in a number of ways already! For We Are Travel Girls, we run events and luxury women’s group trips (currently on hold – but hoping to resume in 2022!)

On my personal side I run an online education business teaching women about blogging and business. I have a signature course The Blog Elevation Program that takes my experience growing a blog to over 2 million annual views and shares how to elevate your blog into a profitable business, and I will be launching a new course on planning and running a profitable sold out retreat!

I also run a free community The Creator Cabana, which is a space for creatives to grow, thrive & collaborate, here I will be launching

masterminds, events & retreats soon – so definitely lots going on!

Anywhere you haven’t been yet that you’re dying to go?

I would love to visit Norway, despite being British somehow, I have not been yet and it is high on my list of places to visit soon.

How do you deal with jet lag?

I don’t suffer too badly with jetlag, but I tend to find the best thing to do when you arrive in a destination after a long travel day is to get outside and get in the sunlight.

This helps your body to readjust to the new time zone. And even if you want to take a nap, don’t!

For those that are just starting to travel which destination do you recommend for beginners?

Probably Europe. It is so easy to get around, the transport system between countries is cheap and easy to navigate so you can easily hop from one country to another. Since we getting closer to winter time I would recommend a trip to the Christmas Markets in Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. You can do all three countries in a week or less and they are all magical in different ways – plus buses between the countries can cost as little as $7!

Tell us the best food experience you have had on the road.

I have had so many excellent food experiences on the road! Stand outs, were exploring the food market in Tel Aviv which I highly recommend and a tiny side of the road place called Rastapan in the surf town of Montanita, Ecuador. They had this little folded up pizza style thing that is one of the most delicious dishes I have had when travelling!

Who is your favorite travel companion?

My husband! We have been travelling together for the last 9 years and we complement each other well on the road and have exactly the same travel style!

Longest flight/travel time you’ve encountered?

New Zealand to England is a pretty decent one! But also getting from Lombok Island in Indonesia to LA when my husband had a family emergency. We had to leave the island immediately, hop on any available flight and I think we took maybe 3-4 different flights with several long layovers through Asia and then from Seoul to LA to get home.

Tell us a travel fail you’ve experienced and how it worked out or didn’t in the end?

I have had so many travel fails! The biggest being when I backpacked through SE Asia in 2003. My friend and I decided to take a small speedboat to cross the border to Cambodia at the Southern tip of Laos when no one really does that, they typically go back to Thailand.

It ended up being a huge multi-day adventure, where we had to pay a local from the small village, we arrived in to drive us to Phnom Penh since there were no buses or other transport options. The journey was brutal because there were basically no roads, no air conditioning and 5 of us packed into a tiny little car! Halfway through the journey the driver dropped us at a town at midnight and said my brother will pick you up here and left us! This was pre travelling with cell phones, so we had no way to contact anyone or figure out another option – but sure enough his brother showed up an hour later and we continued the journey!

Sojourner White @THESOJOURNIES

What other travel influencers do you follow and why?

I love Winnie of @justrioba on Instagram. She’s a Kenyan travel blogger who leads adventurous hikes and group trips in Kenya and other parts of Africa. Oneika Raymond of Oneika the Traveller has been one of my OG Black travel influencer inspirations and now she’s a travel journalist so I’ve loved watching her journey embedding travel into her career.

Tell us how you got into traveling as an influencer? Where did it all start?

Becoming an influencer was an accident! I started a regular study abroad blog in 2015 when I spent 5 months in Granada, Spain and it has evolved from there. I bought my website domain (sojournies.com) in 2017 and started learning about blogging and influencing.

I always make a packing list! Currently I’ve been using the app Notion since that’s how I organize all of my influencer things anyway (content calendar, ideas, etc.). I definitely think mapping out what you want to wear each day as whole outfits helps you not overpack. You can see which pieces can be used to create multiple outfits. Also of course use packing cubes!

Tell us a few items you cannot you not travel without?

As an influencer I cannot travel without my phone and laptop - it’s literally how I can create content! Also, my red lipstick. It makes any outfit and picture pop.

You have been to some extraordinary places, what is your best travel memory?

Another great question. I think my best travel memory was studying abroad. Everything was so new and fresh and it truly opened my eyes to what I could do and see in the world. I loved learning Spanish in Spain after studying it for years in the U.S. I loved the olive oil tasting, day trips around southern Spain, the adrenaline of being a broke undergrad still traveling, all of it. I can’t get that time nor experience back and I’m so grateful to have had it.

Are you a step-by-step planner or do you like to go with the flow and see where the trip takes you?

I’m kind of a mix! I do like to have a few ideas on what I want to do ahead of time and will definitely plan a cooking class or tour beforehand. But I like to see where the day takes me too. Having a list of activities and then seeing what is feasible the day of is more my style.

Everyone needs a mentor, who is yours?

I have a few! My mom is my lifelong mentor. My mentor since undergrad is my former advisor Norris Chase. He really saw leadership qualities in me that I think I was afraid to fully embody myself at 18 and 19 years old. And then my big sister/co-worker Monique Liston.

She’s always encouraging me to challenge myself and be open to trying new things, just to see if they work or not and how I can learn from taking strategic chances.

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HOLIDAY 2021

How are you planning to take your business to the next level? Do you have any expansion plans as an influencer?

Ahhh I struggle with this. I’m a social worker and actually really love my current job, and I have the best team. But I do hope to expand and maybe follow in the footsteps of Oneika and become an on-camera travel host. I would love that and blend my experiences to talk about the cultural aspects of travel.

Anywhere you haven’t been yet that you’re dying to go?

Oh my list is so long! Brazil, Ghana, Senegal, Colombia, Peru, Singapore, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya - the list gets longer by the day.

Where/what type of research do you do before your trips?

I’m a researcher for my 9 to 5 job, so I look at everything. Blogs, YouTube, IG, even tourism research articles. I’m a true travel nerd. I also try to find bloggers and content creators from the destinations I’m visiting (if I can). I think a lot of our media is from a white and Western perspective and finding multicultural voices and experiences are necessary for more nuance in travel.

How do you deal with jet lag?

I try to schedule activities to keep me awake and help me adjust!

Though sometimes I have crashed out and slept a whole day and that helped too.

For those that are just starting to travel, which destination do you recommend for beginners?

I started traveling internationally in Europe so I would say one of their big cities like Madrid, Lisbon, London, Berlin, etc. Especially if you are coming from the U.S and want to easily adapt since Europe and the U.S have similar cultures and lifestyles, and most speak English. However, if you want more of an adjustment, pick a destination where you don’t speak the language. That’s an epic first adventure!

Tell us the best food experience you have had on the road.

Ooooh I’m a foodie so I love this question. I would say this couscous and mint tea I had in the Rif Mountains of Morocco when I studied abroad. It was our last day of the exchange program and that meal was just so good.

Who is your favorite travel companion?

I’ve had so many! From study abroad friends to girl’s trips I can’t pick, and I also travel solo a lot. But me and my travel journals, which are full of my greatest travel hits, have probably been my most consistent companion.

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As the season of giving back approaches, travelers are booking holiday trips with intent - and where better to start than your hotel? Creating and valuing positive impact as a visitor is key to responsible travel, and vital to the approach of Kind Traveler.

When a guest books their hotel via Kind Traveler, a $10 minimum donation contributes to vetted charities in the hotel’s community, creating a positive community or environmental impact. Kind Traveler’s Give + Get hotel booking platform offers guests exclusive rates and perks when booking a Kind Hotel, creating a win-win situation for each traveler and local.

Flamingo Resort & Spa The newly reimagined Flamingo Resort & Spa in Santa Rosa, California, pairs its mid-century history with a green sensibility. A Kind booking can benefit the Sonoma Land Trust, which protects and maintains the natural Sonoma landscape. Autumn is a vibrant time in Sonoma Wine Country, with endless opportunities to enjoy hikes in the colorful parks and vineyards showcasing the golden fall season.

Visitors should not miss Spring Lake Regional Park.

Lumiere with Inspirato Telluride’s Lumiere with Inspirato is a luxe ski lodge welcoming ski lovers and dogs. The resort embraces its stunning home with Kind donations benefiting the Telluride Foundation, which supports local families in need. Visitors can’t miss the opportunity to ski or snowboard, with the season starting in late November.

Mountain Shadows Resort The expansive and elegant Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale welcomes Kind Travelers to Arizona’s iconic Paradise Valley with an onsite local art gallery, health & wellness club, and nearby biking trails. Kind donations go to the Epilepsy Foundation Arizona to aid those living with epilepsy. Each fall, visitors can hike to explore the Sonoran Desert up-close or visit Scottsdale ArtWalk, home to more than 100 galleries exhibiting the finest visual art from local and international artists.

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Legacy Vacation Resort Indian Shores

Harmon Guest House The LEED Gold-certified Harmon Guest House is an artsy oasis in Healdsburg, California, with complimentary yoga sessions, free three-hour bike rentals and a solar-heated pool to enjoy the best of wine country. Kind Travelers benefit Russian Riverkeeper, which preserves the historic Russian River. From early September through mid-November, fall in Sonoma Wine Country is synonymous with harvest, as grapes are picked then crushed for the year’s vintage. Visitors can experience harvest firsthand, with many wineries offering their own harvest festivals and events.

Riggs Washington D.C.

Legacy Vacation Resort Indian Shores is a Certified B Corporation and a modern vacation experience just steps away from Florida’s scenic beaches and boating.

The resort’s Kind donations support the For Good Movement, which aims to foster purpose-driven businesses. Indian Shores is also home to Seaside Seabird Sanctuary, a not-to-miss wildlife rehabilitation facility and tourism attraction dedicated to the rescue & treatment of sick and injured wild birds.

Virgin Hotels Chicago In true Virgin spirit, LEED Gold-certified, Virgin Hotels Chicago, blends quality hospitality with playful, innovative amenities, like a library, a mobile app for personalized service, patented lounge beds, and countless food options. Local charity Art of Culture Inc., empowering positive impact on Kind Traveler, provides youth with arts education and access. Travelers will fall in love with Chicago during fall -- whether they want to admire neighborhood architecture, soak in the fall colors, or hear about the city’s urban legends, fall in Chicago has something for everyone.

Historic and sophisticated Riggs Washington D.C. offers plant-based cuisine and a charming rooftop restaurant.

The hotel’s culinary ethos extends to its partnership with DC Central Kitchen, which provides hot meals and employment to in-need adults. From vibrant foliage and waterfront views to family-friendly festivals, there's an endless amount of things to see and do this fall in D.C.

The Inn at Discovery Coast The Inn at Discovery Coast beckons travelers to relaxation and rejuvenation on Washington’s Long Beach and near the eight-mile Discovery Trail, perfect for a nature walk. The property encourages donations to the North Coast Food Web, which cultivates the local food economy. Locals say fall is the best time to visit to avoid crowds. Visitors can walk some of the 28 miles of Long Beach.

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Top SoCal Golf: May the Course be with you

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Arroyo Trabuco Situated in Mission Viejo, CA Arroyo Trabuco Golf club is among Orange County's finest courses with its natural peaceful setting and challenging course design. Set just far away enough off the beaten path the course offers golfers the ability to get away from it all and to truly enjoy a great round on one of OC's premier golf courses. This 18-hole championship-length golf course was designed

by PGA Tour Professional Tom Lehman and local golf architect Casey O'Callaghan. The 240-acre park like setting set amidst Trabuco Creek and the Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo offers an unforgettable day in South Orange County. Undulated fairways and greens, elevated tee boxes and several carryovers will challenge even the lowest of handicaps here. With a course rating of 73.7 and a slope rating of 134 on Bermuda grass you need to bring your best game to shoot under par here. Although difficult at times with several blind approach shots and two tiered greens you won’t find a more dynamic course in the OC. With five sets of tee boxes golfers have the option to play from 5045 to 7000 yards, from first time beginners to professional golfers there is surely enjoyment for all levels of skill.

After a round of golf there is no better way to spend the day then a visit to O’Neill’s Bar & Grill. O’Neill’s offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with multiple options for dining inside or out depending on your mood. O’Neill’s Patio and Fireside areas are ideal for the perfect al-fresco dining experience with magnificent views and a serene atmosphere to whisk the day away. Several events throughout the week are offered including their impressive weekly Sunday Champagne brunch which rivals any in Orange County. The team of chefs bring the best that O’Neill’s has to offer with a wide range of food options including a full outdoor grill and endless stations for omelets, prime rib and more.

Black Gold Perfectly nestled in the foothills of Yorba Linda, Black Gold Golf Club rivals any course in the OC with its challenging design, stunning landscapes, and overall level of service in every aspect of your golf experience. It all starts with the interaction of each staff member, from the check in to the starter to the servers at Derricks Grille you will be treated with the utmost of importance. With arguably the most impressive golf carts and rental clubs in all of

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Orange County and the iconic “oil field” practice facility your round of golf could not start at a higher level. Three expansive practice greens to hone your chipping, bunker and putting skills, 28 natural and artificial turf stations along with 100% baseball stadium lighting make for the ultimate practice facility for golfers of all levels. This Arthur Hill designed beauty showcases many dramatic elevation changes, rolling hills and several bodies of water including a stunning waterfall just off the 18th green.

From the championship tees Black Gold dawns a par 72 layout playing at 6756 yards challenging even the lowest of handicaps.

With a course rating of 73.1 and a slope rating of 133 you better be up for the challenge with this OC classic.

Oak Creek Located in Irvine, Ca this Tom Fazio designed 18-hole course has been among the favorites for many Orange County locals since its opening back in 1996. This exciting layout features 6,834 yards from the championship tees with a par of 71 and although a sometimes-forgiving design this course also comes with many challenges to test even the most skilled of golfers. Managed by the Irvine Company only the best can be expected with your overall experience from the moment you set foot on the property, with the highest level of course maintenance and customer service at every turn. Need to work on that golf swing? Oak Creek's expansive practice facility with upgraded LED lighting allows golfers to hone their skills late into the evening not to mention its 65 natural turf tees, a nine acre all terrain landing area, two practice greens and a large practice bunker. With a course rating of 72.2 and a slope rating of 132 of Bermuda Grass it is safe to say you will be needing the most out of your golf clubs on this Tom Fazio classically designed course. Tapered fairways, scenic greens, strategically placed bunkers, and several challenging water hazards surely make this a course to add to your Golf OC bucket list!

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BRIAN MALARKEY Photography by: Ken Alcazar Photography: Huey Bui

Chef, TV Personality and Entrepreneur He has inspired young chefs all over the world with his fiery personality and cooking skills on a plethora of TV shows and now he is getting ready to take over the retail world with his newest venture Chef's Life. We noticed his spunk and good vibes immediately as we sat down one on one with the culinary rockstar. Even when covid started to slow things down his work ethic didn't change, instead he pivoted his business after hearing a few wise words about thinking differently and working smarter not harder. This funny and super energetic tv personality and chef won't be stopped and we couldn't admire him more for his positive outlook on life and determination to go bigger and bolder during a pandemic.

When he’s not judging up and coming chefs on shows like Guy's Grocery Games and ABC's The Taste you can find him in Koreatown enjoying the foodie scene or escaping to Costa Rica for a good surf session. Having already narrowed down his plans and goals for 2022 we can all rest assured this is certainly going to be his biggest and best year yet!

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LATM: Tell us your best or worst travel experience/memory.

BM: I have been in love with Tulum for a very long time, I’ve gone three times. Absolutely love it. Tulum is action-packed adventure with yoga and fresh squeezed juices and fish on the beach.

It’s just very, very nice. I also love exotic fun trips like Costa Rica, for surfing. I’ve done the whole Italy, Spain, France by car experience and I love those destinations.

I would have to say one of the best trips and craziest was when we were in Egypt with my friend Ahmed. We got caught in rival soccer riots that were going on and our driver was like, “I have to get you out of here. I fear for your lives.” So anytime the driver is trying to hide “Apple Pie Americana’s,” you know you’re in a bad situation. No matter how many times we told him we were from Canada, he knew we were American.

LATM: How did that trip turn out to be your best?

BM: Well, it’s like the beginning of civilization, as far as I’m concerned: Egypt, the pyramids, the beauty, it’s just over the top. To think that those pyramids were built before the map, I’m positive that’s where the aliens landed. That’s the first contact with aliens – the pharaohs and the aliens, alright? Haha LATM: Where are your favorite spots to hit up in SoCal when you are not working?

BM: I’m very fortunate, I have a boat so anytime we can we get on the water. The kids are into surfing right now so we’re just out as much as possible. My kids are infatuated with the Wedge in Newport. They love the breaks up in Laguna also. I’m trying to get them off those shore breaks because I’m scared. I like the longer, more relaxed breaks. I like the sunsets cliffs down in San Diego, so that we’re not hitting the beach every time we land. I have a hard time going East – everything I do is on the coast, from Santa Barbara to Malibu to Orange County all the way down to the border.

For restaurants, I just had an epic meal at Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina, and I’m not typically a hotel restaurant kind of guy, but it was on point. The service was so good. That was fantastic. We always love to go and support our friend Amar Santana in OC. In LA I can’t get enough of K-Town right now for Korean food. I also love to go check out Majordōmo, David Chang’s new place. I haven’t been to Girl and the Goat yet, but I love Stephanie Izard.

She just opened her first restaurant outside of Chicago which I am a long longtime fan of.

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République is my go-to favorite restaurant of all time, by Walter Manzke. I was sad to see MTN

by Travis Letts restaurant go, but I always loved that one. In San Diego – I love Jeune, Jolie and Campfire. Anything in the Trust Group down here in San Diego is always incredible, if I must talk about restaurants that are not my own.

Travis Swikard just opened a restaurant called Callie down here which is next level. Those are my favorites. I love going up into the convoys and the different ethnic areas and just eating a bowl of ramen and dumplings and having a few ice-cold beers. One more restaurant I want to throw in here is Brooke Williamson, a Top Chef fave! She has an incredible restaurant south of LA. Brooke Williamson is a very talented chef and I love her incredible food.

LATM: What has been your most proud achievement over the course of your career?

BM: The highlight of my career – you know I kind of just keep going for them. The fabric brands were incredible that we launched. The pure joy that Herb and Wood brings to me.

It’s doing 600 covers a night now and is just a beautiful, fantastic restaurant. You know what my biggest accomplishment really is, it honestly having the next generation of chefs who I taught and mentored now leading the charge. They are taking the pressure off me, the talent is immense, the passion is huge, I’m just so thrilled for what the future holds for these young chefs coming up right now. I’ve gotten to train and work with so many of them – I love that. Of course, also launching a nation-wide line for Chef ‘s Life Oils is pretty big on the list.

It’s really blowing my mind that we are in 1800 stores nationwide right now.

LATM: Where is one country or culture you would like to explore or learn more about?

BM: I’m dying to get to Thailand and Vietnam – Southeast Asia. It’s the only food I want to eat right now – it’s bright, it’s hot, it’s acidic, it’s fresh, it’s all I crave and daydream about. I love it.

LATM: What are a few of your go to travel items you must have on a trip?

BM: I like to go with an empty bag and fill it up when I get there. I love buying everything from the local handmade clothes to high-end items, from secret spoons and knives to different spices. I really don’t try to take anything with me. I want to take an empty bag and fill it with the treasures I find while traveling.

LATM: Where is your ideal destination for a local weekend getaway?

BM: In wintertime, we love to run off to

Palm Springs. For a trip to the mountains, I love Mammoth, Park City, Bend, Oregon and in my hometown Mt. Bachelor. All are easy flights to get to. I have a trip planned to Big Sky, Montana this winter and it will be my first time visiting the area. Snowboarding and skiing is always very high on the list for the whole Malarkey Family. When I need a warm escape, I love to fly down to Cabo. I think Cabo is the easiest and greatest place ever. We stayed at Nobu on the last trip and I’m going down to Pedregal this season to do a big Chef Series dinner there. I just discovered the joys of Todos Santos, down in Baja which has great surfing and fishing. We caught a Marlin the last time we were down there. Cabo is a true treasure that is so very close to us, it’s not that big of a commitment to get to.

LATM: Tell our readers about your new endeavors?

BM: Chef ’s Life Oils – I figured out that too many people were cooking with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, I had to teach them that you need the right oil to cook with. But EVOO is one of the products you need, so we came up with a three-pack. So we have a cooking oil, a blending oil, and a finishing oil. We got picked up by Kroger’s Nationwide, which is Ralph’s here in CA. It’s coast to coast and it’s hitting bigger than I thought. The best threesome you’ll ever have!

We also have the Chef ’s Life clothing line coming out. Which is the new Chef ’s jacket of the future, incredible aprons, highest quality and made here in California. We are going to be launching our aprons in time for the Holiday season and then probably the first quarter of next year, we will be launching our Chef jackets – which are more than just chef jackets. They are a fashion statement, and anyone can wear one at any time. It’s going to be the parachute pants of 2022 – everybody’s going to want one.

LATM: Which chefs inspired your journey and where do you find your creativity these days?

BM: Like I said, my creativity comes from all these young chefs that I’ve worked with who are now running my restaurants. There’s Carlos Achoa, Sara Harris, Tara Monsod – these people are out there, they are pioneers, and they are taking the food scene to a whole new level. It’s not like fussy and finicky, it’s just full flavor and confidence in their cooking. My favorite chefs that inspired me are the Bordains of the world, for their attitudes. For badass cuisine, David Chang is a monster. For refinement, Ludo Lefebvre, keeping French Tradition alive and then there’s so many of the peers I get to cook

with. On the tournament of champions, all the amazing chefs there: Christian Petroni, Brooke Williamson, The Voltaggio Brothers, there’s so many great chefs and I’m very fortunate that I get to hang out with and competitively cook against them. I’ll see something that Antonia Lofaso does, and I’ll be like, “Ahh that’s so good” and I’ll put it in my pocket.

LATM: Any tips you have learned over the course of your travels you can share?

BM: When I was in Tulum I realized that their local cuisine is cooked on wood fire, and then I have people I am working with going we don’t have enough equipment to do this or that. It makes me think, “Where there’s a will, there is a way, my friend.” You must get more creative. You don’t need all the fancy kitchens and you don’t need all the fancy gismos. You just have to have the desire to make something fantastic. Cooking is really kind of caveman. We have fire, and oil, and knives. We butcher. So, I really love the primal part of cooking and using your hands. It’s good for me to go to places like Mexico and Tulum and Baja, Central America, and Costa Rica, where they don’t have all the luxuries that we have here. Yet their food is as good if not better than ours.

It really makes you realize that you can accomplish a lot with very little.

LATM: What are your next big goals for 2022?

BM: We have the clothing line coming out.

We’re looking to launch Chef ’s Life into many more markets, and many more grocery stores, so we are excited about that. We also have more grocery products coming under the Chef ’s Life label that we are excited to launch. We’re just going to hang out with the restaurants we currently have. It’s nice to have this product line and shoot a ton of online cooking classes. This is a new direction for us. A wise person once said to me, “You have to make money when you sleep.” I was only making money when I was awake, and people were eating at my restaurant. Now we’re selling in grocery stores across the country, we’re starting to make some money while we sleep. So that’s a good thing!

Southern California is the place to be. It’s been a wild ride, but you can never take away our sunshine, you can never take away our good vibes, and I am Southern California through and through forever. I’ll pay my sunshine tax to continue living this amazing life.

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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.

Go2Africa's Award-Winning Safari Travel Specialists Share What’s New in Africa and Reasons to Travel in 2022 Hit List

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ith an entire team of African-born and raised specialists, including seven named as Conde Nast Traveler’s Top Travel Specialists in 2021, travelers are in excellent hands. Whether it is your first trip to Africa or you are planning to get further off the beaten path, travelers can start planning now with confidence that every detail from A to Z will be taken care of, including Covid-19 protocols, with 24/7 on-safari support.

Launching June 2022 Serengeti, Tanzania: Ubuntu Migration Camp Re-Opening June 2022 Mozambique: Banyan Tree Hotel & Resorts’ Ilha Caldeira Opening Q2 of 2022

2022 Africa Travel Trends

Private Experiences With a focus on the outdoors, exclusive safari homes, personal chefs, and private guides make Africa is filled with once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list Africa a desirable and safe destination for 2022. experiences. Unique opportunities await from Go2Africa organizes exclusive and one-of-a-kind hot-air balloon flights over the vast herds of the tailored trips that allow travelers a personalized and Great Migration to trekking into the secret emerald private experience, so you can avoid the crowds and world of the rainforests, to encountering gorillas enjoy the scenery and wildlife. Below is a sample of and family-friendly whale-watching and world-class the most unique and new private offerings available scuba diving. Go2Africa’s team of experts have for 2022. been committed to building first-hand knowledge since 1998. 100% of the revenue stays in Africa Travel Bubbles at African Bush Camp to support local communities and conservation African Bush Camps have recently launched projects to protect these unique places for future exclusive-use/private guided safaris for their camps generations. across Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe known as ‘Travel Bubbles’. The ability to exclusively use “One of our core values at Go2Africa is resilience, any of their 16 bush camps and receive a personal and I’m proud to say we’ve dug deep over the past experience allows guests to explore safely and avoid 18 months to come back stronger than ever,” shares other travelers. It’s a safari home-away-from-home, Maija de Rijk-Uys, Managing Director of Go2Africa. - a true authentic novelty.

She adds “Each week there are new domestic or regional flights being added within Africa, and the Mwiba, Offers New Helicopter Trips Launching announcement of international routes reopening from June – August 2022 the USA to both Kenya and South Africa has helped Ultra-private Mwiba Lodge is nestled discreetly increase our US client base from 65% to 76%. We’re among gigantic boulders overlooking a rocky gorge now seeing bookings from US clients at pre-COVID of the Arugusinyai River in a private 130,000levels, and these clients are helping to keep safari lodges acre reserve in the southern Serengeti. This fertile operating, aid in vital conservation and sustainability landscape has over 30 freshwater springs passing initiatives whilst traveling with purpose.” through it, making it a favorite locale for elephants, kudu, and lions. The incredible new scenic helicopter experience is a private flight over the New Hotel Openings for 2022 reserve for up to three hours over remote locations offering spectacular birds-eye wildlife views. The South Africa: The Homestead, Nambiti Private Mwiba concession has a number of natural springs Game Reserve Opening Early 2022 South Africa: Leopard Sands River Lodge, Gate to that attract an abundance of plains game and predators alike, especially during the calving season Kruger National Park Opening Early 2022 of the annual Wildebeest Migration from about Kenya: Sanctuary Tambarare Opening June 2022 January to March.

Namibia: Wolwedans Star Bed Experience

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A Remote Workcation Experience in the Seychelles Trade-in your home office for an exotic island escape where you can enjoy a blend of vacation and work on a daily basis. This new program is perfect for professionals who are interested in a nomadic lifestyle and allows them to work in the Seychelles for up to one year. Seychelles offers travelers an amazing experience where safety is top priority.

Escape to The Galapagos of Africa: São Tomé and Príncipe As the second smallest economy in Africa, São Tomé and Príncipe cover two islands and several mostly uninhabited islets in the Gulf of Guinea. It is a true escape from the modern world. This is a perfect destination for eco-tourists looking to explore ‘Lost Worlds’ with fantastic beaches, jungle exploration, snorkeling, fishing, and bird watching.

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MOBILE FOOD TRUCK PRIVATE & CORPORATE CATERING FACEBOOK: HAOLE BOYS SHAVE ICE WWW.HBSHAVEICE.COM

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ROLL THE DICE: Las Vegas IS WAITING FOR YOU

STAY Westgate Las Vegas Looking to book a trip to Sin City? Look no further than the dazzling Westgate Las Vegas Hotel and Casino. This resort has all of the pizazz and incredible amenities you’d want for your Vegas stay, with a few extra perks. Conveniently located adjacent to the Las Vegas Convention Center, you’ll be a few blocks away -the perfect distance- from the loud crowds and bright lights on the Strip. Should you want to head to the Strip, not to worry! Westgate has a monorail station on site that will take you directly there. Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, this legendary resort will check all your boxes and then some.

Formerly known as the Las Vegas Hilton, Westgate Resorts bought the property in 2014. Upon entry, you won’t be able to miss the life-size Elvis statue, this building relaunched The King’s career. He performed consecutive sold-out shows for seven years here, breaking all Las Vegas attendance records!

While the entrance to this grand hotel doesn’t get more “Vegas” than that, it’s a magnificent tribute, without being gaudy. If you’re traveling for work, you’ll be glad to know the Westgate has 200,000 square feet of meeting space, including a full-service business center. If you’re here for pleasure, simply pivot and find yourself immersed in a gambler’s paradise.

Westgate’s 95,000-square-foot casino dwarfs any of the nearby business hotels.

This resort boasts some of the most spacious rooms in Las Vegas. Guest rooms are welcoming and comfortable, adorned with portraits of entertainment legends such as Marilyn Monroe and the King himself. To add some luxury to your trip, opt for a High-Roller Suite or a Sky Villa with a view of The Strip. Westgate also provides all the amenities you could want for an exciting vacation. Relax and recharge with an in-room massage or skin treatment from the Serenity Spa. Enjoy a cocktail (or two) as you cool off in the pool or sunbathe in one of the glamorous cabanas. Sweat it out at

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the fitness center or get your game on at their Pickle Ball courts. Do not forget to catch a night of world-renowned entertainment, with a plethora of options from the world’s best magicians to musical legends like Barry Manilow. You will not be disappointed in all this resort has to offer!

No trip to Vegas is complete without eating delicious culinary creations. Whether you are looking for a casual bite after a long day at the pool, or a romantic dinner for two, the Westgate has a large array of dining options to satisfy any appetite. You’ll find a row of restaurants featuring authentic Mexican food, fresh sushi, and the #1 rated Italian Restaurant in Las Vegas. From a menu created by award-winning chefs, try the mouth-watering Bone-in Veal Chop Parmigiana or tender Osso Buco at Fresco Italiano. Another notable mention is the world-famous hibachi restaurant Benihana, located on the second level.

Talk about dinner and a show! Enjoy a specialty cocktail, while you see the Japanese exhibition-style chefs chop and cook up your scrumptious meal right on the table before you.

The Westgate truly has created a wide variety of entertainment, fun, and luxury for its guests. It’s ideal

location, deluxe amenities, and connection to current and historical music icons keeps guests returning again and again. For travelers looking for work, play, or both, everyone will enjoy their stay at the Westgate Resort and Casino.

PLAY Mat Franco’s Las Vegas Magic Show Winner of NBC’s America’s Got Talent, Mat Franco lives up to his title! Franco is currently headlining his

own show, Magic Reinvented Nightly at The LINQ Hotel + Experience in Las Vegas. Known for having a winning personality, Mat’s show is 90-minutes of familyfriendly banter and impressive illusions, driven by his joyful persona and incredible crowd work. The show is very interactive with fun audience participation. Mat is an electrically engaging performer. It’s so obvious he loves what he does and is thrilled to share that with his audiences. His illusions are unbelievable, unique to what you may have seen in other magic shows, and he changes the final act every night to keep audiences on their toes!

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The theater is intimate enough that there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Since most of his illusions involve playing cards and sleight of hand, there are enlarged video projections to ensure everyone has a close-up view of the tricks. With evening performances nearly every single night, his residency runs through January 2022.

Mat gives everything you’d want out of a magic show:

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an improv-fueled presentation filled with boundless fun and thrills. The show leaves you with a stunning sense of wonder like no other show before, and it beckons you back to find out what innovative illusion he’ll end the show with next!

Whether it be a private, corporate event, wedding, or special celebration, DJZ Productions aims to provide our clients with the finest musical and visual experience for any occasion. Our audio equipment is well above the industry standard, and the entertainment value of your event will immediately be taken to the next level with our friendly and outgoing MC’s, skilled and experienced open format DJ’s, state of the art lighting services, and high end luxury rental inventory, including but not limited to dance floors, draping and more.

www.djzproductions.com

17815 Sky Park Circle Suite G Irvine, CA 92614 Instagram: @djz_productions

Email: info@djzproductions.com

Phone: 949.264.3359

EAT YOUR HEART OUT Vegas 88

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he Vegas foodie scene continues to evolve this year past the old school buffets and fancy steakhouses with a few notable newcomers.

As the city has increased its wicked offerings so has the culinary scene. It now has more celebrity chefs than you can count and the best mixologists with access to the rarest ingredients from around the world. Pick any type of cuisine and odds are, you will find it within walking distance of your hotel. On a recent trip to Sin City, we set our sights on Aria Resort & Casino and conquered all of their dining options. Las Vegas is one of the best foodie meccas in the world and with so many great restaurants located under one roof, there is no better choice than staying at Aria to eat your heart out. While shows and most nightlife venues are still under wraps, dining destinations are all the rage. Aria offers a plethora of restaurants on property to satisfy any foodie from fresh seafood at CATCH to French delicacies at Bardot Brasserie and of course every New Yorker’s favorite Carbone for hearty Italian.

Carbone

It is a well-known fact that Las Vegas is world-renowned for its wide array of incredible restaurants. With so many choices-how does one pick a winner? This celebrated concept from Mario Carbone, Rich Torrisi and Jeff Zalaznick pay homage to the Italian American restaurants of the mid-20th century – an era of glamour, showmanship, and tableside service which is the real showstopper at Carbone. With the perfect combination of hospitality and entertainment, you will be treated like a mafia boss as your “captain” whips up your Caesar salad right before your eyes. Impeccable service is guaranteed each time you take a seat inside Carbone (which we must mention the seating comprised of tufted private banquettes reminiscent of the Rat Pack era). The New York-inspired cuisine is influenced by that same time in history but takes its culinary cues from the great talents and techniques of today showcasing elevated classics such as Lobster Fra Diavolo, Chicken Scarpariello and Octopus Pizzaiolo. With timeless classics served day in and day out with

an idyllic Vegas old school vibe, it simply doesn’t get better than Carbone for authentic Italian Dining CATCH The go-to dining destination for celebrities from LA to NYC, CATCH is the only location to bring epic renditions of Asianinfluenced sushi, seafood, and steak. Catch Hospitality Group partners Tilman Fertitta, Mark Birnbaum and Eugene Remm have propelled this globally influenced seafood restaurant from a standalone NYC flagship to an international phenomenon with successful locations in Los Angeles, Playa del Carmen, and Las Vegas. With a focus on culture and brand, New York based restaurateurs Remm and Birnbaum spent two decades building CHG into one of the country’s most successful restaurant management companies.

As you enter CATCH, it's all wanderlust and floral walls providing a great photo opp. The restaurant offers some of the most prized seafood in Las Vegas with mouthwatering dishes from the Truffle Sashimi to the Crispy Cauliflower. The food here is pure, unadulterated elegance with robust flavors. The sushi and sashimi are faultless, and if you're feeling spendy, ask for the Seafood Tower. Signature cocktails are well-complimented to the romantic and magical environment and DO NOT sleep on dessert. The Hit Me Chocolate Cake and Donut Wonder Wheel are items you won’t soon forget.

Bardot Brasserie Prepare to step back in time and be introduced to classic French cuisine with a twist only Chef Michael Mina could bring. The menu features iconic French comfort food and an array of both new and old-world wines. The décor ties perfectly with the menu and gorgeous florals are placed throughout. French roots are echoed in the design and the ambiance is so inviting and infectious. So much so that you may forget you’re not in Paris after a few French 75’s when leaving the restaurant. The wine list is extensive, and the food includes artfully decadent classics from its signature Bardot Wellington to the perfectly prepared Steak Frites.

Din Tai Fung The go-to dining destination for steamed dumplings and noodles has arrived on the Las Vegas Strip. From Taipei to Los Angeles, the esteemed Taiwanese dumpling and noodle house is renowned for their Xiao Long Bao including the famed Shanghai-style soup dumplings filled with Kurobuta pork. People come just for this signature dumpling which started the legacy. Each Xiao Long Bao is carefully weighed and folded by hand to achieve Din Tai Fung’s Golden Ratio of 18 folds and then is stuffed with top-quality Kurobuta pork. The Sauteed String Beans with Garlic is a starter hit, as is the Wagyu Black Pepper Tenderloin. Add on Noodles with Pickled Mustard Greens & Shredded Kurobuta Pork and Jidori Chicken Fried Rice for an all-encompassing meal.

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PETIT ST. VINCENT

By Kelly Magyarics

Petit St. Vincent is everything you might imagine when you hear the term “private island.” Want lunch served in your beachside palapa? No problem. How about breakfast delivered to the terrace of your cottage with a view? It's as easy as raising the yellow flag outside your front door--or hoisting the red one for privacy. The phrase “but of course” is di rigueur in this enchanted little spot in the world.

The southernmost island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, PSV (as it’s called) has just 22 villas spread out on 115 acres. Getting there requires flying to Barbados and then taking a small flight to Union Island; you can’t miss PSV’s unmistakable whale-like shape from the air.

After a fifteen-minute speedboat ride, guests are met by affable manager Matthew Semark and his equally friendly staff.

Each freestanding one- or two-bedroom accommodation was built with hand-quarried island stone. Some spill out onto a private patio with lounges and a hammock, just steps from a white sand beach ripe for early morning walks to collect sea glass or conch shells; others are elevated on a hill or bluff, with sweet vistas of the sea whose colors changes from darker blue to turquoise to electric aqua and then back again, depending on the sun.

Villas--referred to here as cottages--are well-appointed, with contemporary accent decor in soothing pastel hues, teak and natural fabrics. All have king-sized beds, a lounge area, indoor and outdoor dining tables, sundeck, sliding glass doors, Bose iPod dock, Nespresso machine, Italian linens, Mascioni towels and BVLGARI toiletries; some accommodations include both an indoor and outdoor shower. A minibar is stocked daily with complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages as well as more potent libations. What you won’t find in your room--blessedly--is wifi or a television set. Even the telephone only rings out so guests won’t be surprised or annoyed when they are trying to enjoy some repose. Staff at PSV encourages everyone to unplug and turn away from their devices--and towards one another.

But while you are welcome to be left to your own devices, you can also be assured of astute yet unobtrusive service, thanks to a staff to guest ratio of more than three to one.

The aforementioned driftwood flagpole system outside every cottage is an ingenious method to summon a meal, beverage, housekeeping or whatever else you desire, while also serving 90

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as a clever take on the do-not-disturb sign. Select the appropriate menu from the in-room binder--early morning coffee, breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner or drinks--check off your selections noting any special requests, roll up the menu, place it in the bamboo container, and then raise the yellow broadcloth flag for service. Staff is constantly driving around in carts to make sure you don’t have a long wait for your French toast and pressed green juice or chef ’s catch of the day.

You’ll want to try all of the local seafood,

from grilled mahi mahi to jerk shrimp skewers over a Greek salad to Caribbean salmon with plantain chips. When you aren’t having a meal in your cottage you can dine at a beach palapa, or at one of two restaurants. The Beach is a casual, toes-in-the-sand delight with Mediterranean- and Caribbean-inspired dishes as well as sandwiches, burgers and clay oven pizzas. The Main Pavilion Restaurant and Bar is a bit more upscale, with a daily-changing menu, stellar selection of Caribbean rums and a wine cellar that holds 3,000 bottles--an impressive stash for a resort so small.

Grab a table inside, or a romantic spot for two on a stone patio tucked into the frangipani blooms, and order dishes like blackened tea barracuda with spiced chickpeas or slow-cooked pork belly with ginger, chili and makrut lime leaf.

There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, yet you often have them all to yourselves. Borrow racquets and balls from the front office for an early-morning tennis game, tackle the outdoor calisthenics trail, practice your sun salutation at the yoga pavilion, or hike the trail leading to the summit of

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Marni Hill for a panoramic view of surrounding islands like Petite Martinique. (Keep an eye out on the island for turtles crossing and the flock of sheep taking a respite from the tropical sun under some shady trees.)

Pop by the water center to take out a kayak, SUP, Hobie Cat, Sunfish, windsurfing equipment or snorkeling gear to use right off the beach, or book a half-day snorkeling expedition to a coral reef to Tobago Cay. During the trip you’ll also spend time on one deserted island where you can swim with huge, curious sea turtles and visit another with iguanas sunning on tree branches and scurrying up the hillside. The resort’s dive center owned and operated by Jean-Michael Cousteau and his colleague Don Santee offers introductory and advanced SCUBA courses and dives.

The spa is Balinese-inspired, and some of the therapists hail from Indonesia. Treatment rooms are open-air (air conditioning optional), with options including an Island Haze Aromatherapy Massage, coconut body scrub or shirodhara, an Ayurvedic healing technique where liquid is poured onto the forehead before a head, scalp and body massage. Post-treatment, you can lounge on the thatched-roof patio with a cup of tea, taking in the heady scent of fuchsia-hued hibiscus flowers floating in an oversized stone bowl.

For a more secluded beach, keep walking west past the palapas and lounge chairs at Caribbean Beach that’s adjacent to The Beach Restaurant. The flagpole system out on the main path works here too if you want to take your lunch in-between dips. Walk around the bend and you’ll come upon Conch Bay, whose narrow sand offers the best opportunity for an afternoon hideaway; but keep in mind the sand disappears at high tide.

And when the private island where you are staying just isn't quite private enough, staff can arrange to shuttle you and the makings for a picnic à deux via small speedboat to Sandy Island, a tiny spot just big enough for a thatched palapa and 360 beach. Set out the blanket, uncork the bubbly and toast your island companion as you commandeer your own tropical hideaway--if only for a blissful hour. Paradise found.

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Plucking in Paradise If you’ve been meaning to take up guitar but just can’t find the motivation, Petit St. Vincent recently hosted its inaugural week-long acoustic guitar workshop, with plans for the next one scheduled July 16-23, 2022. The course is taught by Justin Sandercoe, one of the world’s leading guitar instructors, who has nearly a million and a half subscribers on YouTube and has been offering online and in-person instruction for more than twenty years. Classes are held in the open-air main pavilions with gorgeous views of the beach and covers topics like major keys, scales, chord progressions, 12 bar blues and blues improv.

It also offers the chance to hone performance skills during several “campfire jams” and a final concert. Not only will the course help you improve no matter your current level, it’s all great fun, and Sandercoe is adept at helping you get to the next level, no matter where you currently are in your acoustic journey.

The price is $9,100 for one student and one partner at leisure, in a one-bedroom cottage, which includes accommodations, food and beverage and guitar tuition and materials including use of a guitar; it does not include flights, transfers or airport taxes.

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FINDING LUXURY & ADVENTURE IN COSTA RICA Costa Rica is world renowned for its lush rainforests, epic surf spots, and adorable three-toed sloths but be warned, planning the perfect itinerary needs some much-needed attention. With a plethora of adventure and luxury to be discovered at every turn some valuable research is highly recommended. Costa Rica (which directly translates to “rich coast”) is deep in culture, has some of the world’s best topography and an abundance of diverse wildlife that will make your head spin.

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Located between Nicaragua and Panama, millions of people visit this adventure paradise every year and for very good reason. Costa Rica is an extremely rare travel destination because of its variety of microclimates; you literally could drive through three different types of forests in just a few hours ranging from rainforest, dry forest and cloud forest. Each climate offers something new and exciting to see and do giving tourists endless adventure and culture for their life changing vacation. Besides the ranging climates the country showcases many regions providing visitors with several vacation types. If you are searching for adventure and eco-tourism a hotel based in San Jose would be ideal with several day trips planned to take in all the area has to offer. Be prepared to drive at least 1-3 hours every morning to your activity for the day, nothing good comes easy as they say. Most of the amazing excursions and attractions are deep in the jungle. If rustic, tranquility and turquoise blue water are more your style than a trip to the Caribbean side of the country would be more of a solid choice for you to get the most of your escape. There are no large hotel chains here or even resorts, expect to come here to completely get away from the hustle of life and immerse yourself into the Caribbean culture that the area serves up on a platter.

SURFS UP Another major draw is the world class surfing.

Surfers travel from all over the globe to catch some of the longest, most pure breaks that the North Pacific Coast provides year round. Tamarindo is a hot spot for surfers and provides a laid back beach community for travelers to spend endless days catching consistent swells. It is such a popular surf destination that many travelers never leave, making it their new home.

THE WILDLIFE Animal lovers are literally in Nirvana when they visit; the country harbors 210 species of mammals, 878 species of birds, 218 species of reptiles and over 35,000 species of insects.

There is something very magical about seeing a three toed sloth, flocks of scarlet macaws, toucans and venomous snakes all in their natural habitat within minutes of arriving to your destination. Besides Africa there is not a

country in this world that provides these types of wildlife encounters and a large reason is due to the government’s strict conservation laws. It is so touching to know there is absolutely zero hunting allowed in the entire country and all of the species are closely protected.

ACTION PACKED ADVENTURE Adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers flock from all over the world to tackle some of the most thrilling tours and attractions that Costa Rica has to offer. It would be impossible to try every thrill seeking adventure the country offers as your options are endless. Some of the best zip-lining in the world is found here and for good reason, this is after all where this action packed activity was invented.

Fly 2000 feet across the jungle upside down or superman style while flocks of Toucans paint the forest backdrop with their stunning colors, it truly doesn’t get much better than 95

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this! Waterfall rappelling, canyoneering, horseback riding, white water rafting, tubing, rock climbing, rainforest aerial trams, sport fishing, hot springs, the list is literally endless of the things to do here.

The Tabacon Hot Springs For the perfect blend of beauty, relaxation and luxury take a day tour to Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort. With all the action and adventure you will be exposed to while visiting Costa Rica there couldn’t be a better place to pay a visit for some much needed R&R. Located in the northern region of Costa Rica at the base of the famous Arenal Volcano, Tabacon provides the perfect backdrop for a jungle oasis. The thermal hot springs emerge from the volcanic springs providing the ideal combination of hot water therapy and pure bliss. Don’t miss an opportunity to enjoy a massage while visiting the hot springs, they offer one of the most invigorating spa experiences you will find in the area. A must try is the Honey Temptation massage where a honey infused lotion is rubbed all over the body with medium pressure in a purely serene setting.

Tortuga Island Those looking for an island adventure should be sure to flock to Tortuga Island for the ultimate beach escape. Located 90 minutes by boat departing either from Puntarenas or Jaco the island ensures a fun filled day in the sun with beach volleyball, jungle hikes and more. Tour operators from all over offer either Catamaran or yacht charters that include a beachside lunch. Snorkeling, snuba and scuba are all offered here and the water is clear and filled with marine life. If relaxing is on the menu for the day, pull up a beach chair and simply soak up the sun. Sightings of scarlet macaws, monkeys and wild pigs are quite normal here in fact a few of the animals love to pay a visit to the tourists each day so make sure you have your camera ready!

ACCOMMODATIONS For those looking for a more peaceful retreat complete with a luxurious setting the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo is the perfect escape for the day to combine tranquility and fun! The resort is tucked away overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the northwest coastline.

The property offers direct access to nature and adventure is just a concierge call away.

As you drive through the grounds you will notice immediately the outstanding views of the beautiful Pacific Coast, white sandy beaches and upon arrival a manicured property that will take your breath away. On any given day you may be lucky enough to spot indigenous wildlife such as howler or white faced monkeys playing in the trees.

After check-in walk the grounds to take in all the beauty that the hotel offers. A very rare position on the ocean provides guests with two beaches.

The hotel sits on a peninsula so there is a bay side and an oceanfront side which showcases an unlimited amount of options for daily activities.

Complementary kayaks, snorkeling equipment and stand up paddle boards are always offered if staying active is on the itinerary. Tennis, golf, jets skis, 4 swimming pools and an outstanding fitness facility will keep you busy throughout your stay. Book one of the resorts kayak tours and spend a few hours guided around Nacascolo Beach or hike the Trail of the Giants. If you prefer a solo excursion grab a stand-up paddleboard and take on the peaceful ocean solitude.

After all that moving and shaking it is easy to build up an appetite fit for a king. The resort offers endless culinary options from Italian at Pesce to Latin at Bahia and a phenomenal steak house called Nemare, whatever your foodie heart desires your wish will be granted. After lunch join one of the properties mixologists at La Reserva for an Infused Rum Tasting. Test your blending skills with some guidance of course to concoct the perfect rum infusion by choosing a selection of young rums and infusion ingredients, including vanilla sticks, cinnamon, cloves, orange peel, cardamom, anise, coffee beans and cocoa. At the end of the tasting guests receive an engraved bottle which can be customized, and a recipe card of their unique blend.

At the end of the day kick your evening off at Anejo and toast to the stars with the Kaldi Martini a mix of Absolute Lime, White Chocolate Liquor, Kahlua, and Espresso. Sit back and enjoy sounds from the live DJ while you nibble on a variety of tapas to share.

A full menu of spa treatments and rituals inspired by the healing powers of the surrounding ocean are available at the hotel spa. Everything you could imagine is offered here to guarantee homeostasis to the mind, body, and soul. From spiritual exploration through personalized guided meditation classes to touchless experiences like reiki and sound therapy, the options are endless.

With so many options to keep you busy the Four Seasons offers the best possible scenario to have a quintessential Costa Rican getaway. From a variety of adventures to a long list of relaxation activities this resort will leave you wanting more and planning your next visit before you even hit the airport to make your way back home.

WILDERNESS

Scotland

ANNOUNCES NEW WINTER ITINERARIES FOR 2022

Crisp fall days and winter frost are around the corner, and travelers are already planning their seasonal getaways. Winter trips are invigorating, spacious, and wild; they awaken a true sense of discovery. Wilderness Scotland has the perfect set of new winter holidays to inspire slow winter travel to help guests disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature.

Boasting spectacular views of the moody Orkney Islands, breathtaking drives through the Cairngorms National Park, skiing in secret places favored by locals, and wildlife sightings in the Abernethy National Nature Reserve; Wilderness Scotland unveils these carefully curated experiences for travelers to enjoy within the vast and expansive landscape, where fresh air and space compliment exciting adventures. Days are spent soaking in the expanse of Scotland's natural, idyllic vistas, and evenings melt away at a dreamy pace in cozy pubs, sitting next to crackling fires with a warm drink or glass of Royal Lochnagar whisky.

Wilderness Scotland's small group and private departures lay out an unparalleled path to discovering the tranquility and beauty of a Scottish winter while being warmed by the country’s exuberant spirit and affectionate hospitality.

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Scotland’s #1 adventure travel company is inviting eager travelers to experience stunning scenery, fresh crisp days, cozy nights, and a slower pace.

Here is a sampling of Wilderness Scotland's winter departures: Ski The Scottish Highlands While it may not be the first destination that comes to mind, you can ski in Scotland and when it’s good, it’s really good. While Scotland makes no claim to compete with the Alps, it can offer a fantastic winter experience both on and off the mountain. If you have a sense of adventure, are flexible and simply enjoy being in the mountains you will be delighted by winter skiing in Scotland.

Trip Highlights: • Ski multiple Scottish resorts • Ski the secret places favored by locals • Relax and enjoy as your hosts take care of all the details • Enjoy the warm hospitality of the Highlands Winter in the Orkney Isles Winter is a spectacular and invigorating time to visit Orkney. Moody skies, crashing waves against stoic cliffs and salty gusts carrying the taste of the sea through this ancient landscape. Winter is the perfect time to escape and be recharged by the unbridled power and majesty of nature. Outside the traditional tourist season, you’ll enjoy the company of locals – hardy wildlife and welcoming people.

Trip Highlights: • Invigorating wild weather walks with sweeping coastal views • Experience the natural and cultural heritage of these special islands • Enjoy Orcadian hospitality and fresh local produce Winter Highland Cosy Cairngorms Imagine snuggling up together with a warming dram, the crackling fire chasing the last of the icy outdoor air away. After a day outside exploring the charms of a Highland winter, you have definitely earned this. Embrace the stillness of the winter landscapes, the rich smell of the evergreen pine forests, the sparkle of ice crystals and cracking of frozen puddles under your feet. As you explore the Cairngorms National Park you may catch rewarding glimpses of the local wildlife wearing their winter coats and see the star-strewn skies that seem to go on forever.

Trip Highlights: • Hiking in the beautiful Cairngorms National Park with an expert guide • Relax in luxurious 5-star hotels • Gaze at the endless stars in the clear winter night skies • Enjoy rejuvenating treatments in the spa • Customize the itinerary to create your perfect trip For more information on Wilderness Scotland’s reopening, experiences and booking policies, please visit wildernessscotland.com or call 1-844235-6240.

8 Vacations for Stunning Scenery

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Cool weather, brightly colored foliage, and destinations largely free from crowds make fall the perfect time to travel. Here are eight vacation ideas from adventurecycling.org for the months ahead, ranging from the mountains of Montana to the the Natchez Trace and even the Galapagos Islands.

The Pacific Coast Route is one of America’s Pacific Coast premier Cycling cycling routes and autumn is an optimal time to avoid heavy tourist traffic. Pedal south through the lush forests of western Washington before following the Columbia River to the Oregon coast, then enter California and encounter massive redwoods coastal headlands and sandy beaches with bike paths.

Ride the route on your own with maps from Adventure Cycling Association, or join others on a tour.

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A visit to Big Sky, Montana, and stay at The Wilson Hotel Fall Under the offers the opportunity Big Sky for fall adventures in Yellowstone country, as elk bugle and pockets of aspen trees turn golden against the backdrop of the green forest. Hike and mountain bike trails surrounding town, fish the famed Gallatin River or take one last tour of Yellowstone National Park’s natural wonders and wildlife before roads close for the season.

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Traffic-Free Natchez Trace

The Natchez Trace is a historic travel corridor through Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi used by American Indians, settlers, soldiers and future presidents.

And with no commercial traffic, the Natchez Trace Parkway is a cyclist’s dream come true. Join Cycle of Life Adventures for a fall tour to enjoy the changing colors of maple, hickory, oak and other hardwood trees, milder temperatures and overnight accommodations in small towns along the parkway.

National parks saw record crowds over the summer, but now that fall is here it's a great time to visit for fewer crowds, less National Parks RV Trip traffic and pleasant temperatures.

Blacksford rents fully stocked Mercedes-Benz Sprinter overland adventure vehicles from Winnebago with an all-inclusive pricing model that includes unlimited miles, no generator fees, bedding, kitchen and bath supplies, free Wi-Fi, a free annual pass to the national parks and 24-hour roadside assistance.

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Explore all the Sonoran Desert has to offer with the Best of Phoenix and Black Canyon Trail Mountain Biking Tour from Escape Arizona + Adventures. This trip is Black Canyon ideal for close groups of Mountain biking friends looking Biking for a warm fall or winter excursion. Highlights include exploring the 21,099-acre McDowell Mountain regional park, riding conservancy lands and ripping more than 40-miles of fast and flowy singletrack.

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Wyoming’s Fireside Resort offers 25 pint-sized, luxuriously outfitted tiny Jackson Hole house rental Glamping units designed by Wheelhaus. The resort is located a short distance from Grand Teton National Park and the Jackson Hole ski slopes, making it the perfect place to post up for a fall getaway or winter ski trip.

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Red Reflet Ranch is a 28,000-acre luxury resort and working ranch on the west slope Play Cowboy of the Bighorn at a Dude Mountains, just Ranch three hours from Yellowstone National Park. Guests stay in private chalets and enjoy family-friendly activities like horseback riding, ATVing, ziplining, swimming, hiking, fishing, shooting and feasting on farm-to-table cuisine.

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Fall is one of the best times of year to visit Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands, particularly Autumn when it comes Galapagos to wildlife and Adventure weather. The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel has joined forces with Scalesia Galapagos Lodge to offer a new weeklong program that includes day trips aboard Yacht Sea Lion, glamping in luxury tents on Isabela Island and visits to remote and mysterious places that illustrate the incredible diversity of the archipelago.

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What's Happening in

SOUTHERN OREGON

This season is a special time in Southern Oregon, as the days are still warm and the nights are crisp. For those who want to get outside and enjoy the region’s spectacular scenery, it’s a perfect time to visit the vineyards during harvest season, or take a hike under foliage colored hues of chardonnay and pinot noir. When winter arrives, things slow down, providing more time to connect to people, cultures, food and music. It might feel like places such as Crater Lake or Mt. Ashland become even more alive as they turn into a winter wonderland of aweinspiring views. Here’s a peek at what’s happening now in Southern Oregon:

WHAT'S NEW TROON VINEYARD RECEIVES ORGANIC CERTIFICATION Troon Vineyard recently became the first estate farm in Oregon and the second winery in the world to become Regenerative Organic Certified™️. Regenerative agriculture is a way of farming that reverses climate change through rebuilding soil organic matter and restoring biodiversity. Founded in 2018, the Regenerative Organic Certification is a revolutionary new certification that champions farmers who go above and beyond in the three pillars of this certification: soil health, animal welfare, and social fairness.

By attaining this certification, Troon Vineyard is helping to address long-term solutions to climate change and some of the biggest agricultural issues of our time. All Troon wines are made from Biodynamic® certified grapes spontaneously fermented with indigenous yeasts and no additives of any kind.

New Routes Offered to Southern Oregon’s Medford Rogue Airport

NEW LODGING OPTIONS FOR MEDFORD Medford can be an ideal home base for exploring the vast diversity of things to do Southern Oregon’s Rogue Valley. New hotel offerings include: • A new 111-room Compass by Margaritaville Hotel is coming to Medford with an expected opening slated for early 2022.

Capturing the Margaritaville state of mind, while delivering fresh, up-scale, and vibrant designs, Compass Hotel Medford will feature plush and comfortable, island-inspired accommodations and amenities signature to the branded concept in an attentive

but laid-back ambiance. Relaxed and casual dining and drinking spaces will offer flavors and entertainment that transport guests to paradise. Bringing the fun and flavor of their full-scale resorts to a more boutique concept, Compass Hotel Medford will be the first Margaritaville venue in Oregon.

SPENCE MOUNTAIN ADDS TRAIL ADDITIONS IN KLAMATH FALLS Klamath County has expanded the network of trails on Spence Mountain, adding more diverse riding experiences for mountain bikers of all skill and fitness levels. Spence Mountain has more than 40 miles of trails including the newest addition, Speed King, a flow trail that can be accessed from South Ridge Trail. Speed King was created to be a wide, smooth, one-way downhill trail, with lots of jumps and berms for maximum fun. The master plan is to add over 60 miles of biking trails to enjoy.

NEW FLYING TOURS OF CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK AND KLAMATH BASIN Catch a bird’s eye view of the deepest lake in North America with Crater Air. Crater Air is a small family-owned and operated company offering scenic Klamath Basin Air Tours that provide passengers with beautiful views, historical insight, and commentary of many wonderful sights. Tours may include the Upper Klamath Lake, Klamath River Canyon, Mt. McLaughlin, Klamath River and Aspen Butte, as well as the iconic Crater Lake. Other offerings include a Romantic Sunset Flight and Aerial Photography Flights which are designed to provide photographers with spectacular aerial views.

SPRING CREEK RESTORATION IN KLAMATH COUNTY Spring Creek at Collier Memorial State Park is known for its

pristine waters and epic kayaking opportunities and more people are wanting to enjoy Klamath County’s uncrowded public lands.

Improvements for the area will include an ADA accessible natural stone launch area for water users to safely access Spring Creek from the Day Use area within Collier Memorial State Park, kayak racks, improved pathways, fencing and gates, and informational kiosks with directional, stewardship and cultural messaging.

ROGUE PICNICS OFFERS UNIQUE CURATED MEALS Southern Oregon is a picknicker’s dream. From its many parks, forests, lakes and wineries, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the fall weather while social distancing in the great outdoors. Rogue Picnics is creating luxury picnic experiences, while collaborating with wineries, restaurants, and other businesses for those who want a special meal. The company will set up plush pillows and table settings, along with baskets of fresh Southern Oregon produce for a ground feast at your special location or one of their hand-selected wineries or private outdoor venues. Special holiday meals are also offered.

NEW ASHLAND RESTAURANTS Ashland is a foodie hot spot, with award-winning restaurants that are all about fresh, seasonal and sustainably prepared food. Here’s some of the newest offerings: • From the creators of popular MÄS restaurant, raw bar NAMA by chefs Joshua Dorcak and Luke VanCampen recently opened in Ashland. Menu items include a selection of raw oysters, ice bentos and sushi handrolls, as well as sake and Rogue Valley wine.

• Osteria La Briccola recently opened at with one of the top patios on the Plaza in downtown Ashland. Chef Davide Ghizzoni’s wide range of pasta is all made in-house, including gnocchi, spaghetti, pappardelle, penne, tagliatelle and bucatini, and many recipes are learned from his grandmother.

• Skout Taphouse and Provisions is a new creekside gathering spot located near Lithia Park, and comes complete with vintage travel trailer. The pub features more than 60 craft brews, hard ciders and kombucha, all on tap, and craft cocktails, as well as menus items such as the Risk it for the Brisket sandwich.

FALL FOLIAGE For a great place to see fall foliage in Southern Oregon, follow the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway from Gold Hill east of Grants Pass north toward Crater Lake, and then head west through Glide to the Umpqua Valley. The route takes you past several volcanic peaks, rushing rivers and plenty of fall color in the Umpqua National Forest. The Upper Klamath Basin is filled with dramatically colored deciduous oak trees, as well as red alder, bigleaf maple and quaking aspen. For hiking to spots with Instagram worthy views of the brilliant oranges, reds and golds that color the landscape, try Roxy Ann Trail in Prescott Park up to Roxy Ann Peak in Medford, the iconic Table Rocks, or Fremont-Winema National Forest. The 93 acres of forested canyonland in Ashland's Lithia Park is a utopia of fall color, with local deciduous trees, European beech, Japanese snowbell and eastern flowering dogwood. For those who are warmed by a glass of wine, follow Applegate Valley Wine Trail and sip and peep at the pumpkin spice-colored leaves.

WINTER ACTIVITIES Southern Oregon caters to all types of travelers with plenty of fun cold weather activities. With majestic views of Mt. Shasta, Mt.

McLoughlin, and all of the surrounding natural beauty, Mt. Ashland provides terrain for skiers and riders of every ability. The ski area, which opens on December 18, is located on 200 acres on the highest mountain in Southern Oregon’s Siskiyou range. Cross country skiing is a great way to explore the backcountry of Diamond Lake, Crater Lake, and Lake of the Woods Resort. Try your hand at snowshoeing through the white wilderness of Crater Lake National Park or Siskiyou Summit.

For those who want an exhilarating adventure, Diamond Lake Lodge offers snowmobiling. Outdoor Ice skating is available at Ashland Rotary Centennial Ice Rink in or Bill Collier Ice Arena at the Running Y Ranch. Kids will love sledding at Table Mountain, located within the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. Animal lovers will enjoy winter birding in the Klamath Basin, an area full of lakes, vast wetlands and the Pacific Flyway – a major route for migratory birds from Alaska to Patagonia in South America.

FALL AND WINTER EVENTS OREGON SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL, THROUGH JANUARY 2022 Founded in 1935, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) is in its eight-month season with works that include Shakespeare as well as a mix of classic, musicals and world-premiere plays. OSF’s play commissioning programs have generated works that have been produced on Broadway, throughout the American regional theatre, and in high schools and community theatres across the country. OSF believes in the inclusion of diverse people, ideas, cultures and traditions that enrich the work they present on stage. Through Oct. 9, see Fannie, a passionate rallying cry—part spiritual revival, part political call to action—defines what it means to be a true revolutionary. OSF’s first holiday special, It’s Christmas, Carol, featuring Dickens, the Marx Brothers, Shakespeare, and dinosaurs (yes, dinosaurs) will be showing from Nov. 22- Jan. 2.

WINTER WINGS FESTIVAL, FEBRUARY 18-20, 2022 The Klamath Basin Audubon Society produces the annual Winter Wings Festival celebrating the largest wintering population of bald eagles in the lower 48 states as well as the abundance of all the birds that make the Klamath Basin home, which typically range from 130 or more. As the oldest birding festival in the West, the goal is to educate visitors on the importance of the Klamath Basin in the Pacific Flyway, a major north-south route of travel for migratory birds in the Americas, extending from Alaska to Patagonia.

OREGON CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL, MARCH 4-6, 2022 The Oregon Chocolate Festival welcomes chocolate lovers with events like the Spa Chocolate Cocktail Party and Chocolate Winemakers dinner. Learn more about your favorite superfood in chocolate and wine paring workshops and educational sessions, and guests can even work off the calories at Charlie’s Chocolate 5k and 10K Run/Walk.

TRAVEL SOUTHERN OREGON Southern Oregon’s abundance of outdoor activities, arts and culture, culinary delights, wine and unique lodging offer inspiring experiences for wine lovers, theatergoer, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. You’ll be surprised to find more than 150 wineries that grow the greatest variety of grapes in the state, five National Park assets and even a high desert in the vast Oregon Outback.

For more information about Southern Oregon follow @travelsouthernoregon on Instagram.

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LIVING THE GOOD LIFE AT THE Green O

Photography Courtesy of The Green O With domestic travel at an all-time high US travelers are searching near and far to find the absolute best that our vast country has to offer. A recent trip took us to a place we had never had the pleasure of visiting and one that has always been on our bucket list, the incredulous beauty of Western Montana. A quick flight from Orange County to Salt Lake City and then on to our final stop, Missoula, Montana, we had arrived in one of the most jaw dropping sections of this beautiful country. A short 30-minute drive from the Missoula airport with our heads on a swivel from taking in the views we arrived at our destination, The Green O. This adult only luxury retreat is the newest addition of The Resort at Paws Up, a 37,000-acre playground of nature at its finest. With 100 miles of trails and 10 miles of the Blackfoot River (home to some of the best fly-fishing in the world) guests are treated to an absolute mind-blowing escape filled with action, adventure, wildlife viewing and a world-class culinary experience that is second to none. While The Resort at Paws Up has made a clearly 104

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defined name for themselves as one of the best all-inclusive luxury resorts in the country a stay at the green o is just that much more refined, for those looking to really get away from it all. With only 12 standalone luxury homes in their own private part of the resort green o offers the idyllic romantic escape superbly set amongst the pines with only the sounds of nature to soothe the soul.

Picture yourself waking up to the swaying pines above your bed through your glass skylight, the first thought that crosses your mind is that you truly are sequestered in nature, albeit in the lap of luxury. You step out onto your deck with your coffee and pastries that have been left piping hot outside your door, after taking a deep

breath you rest up against your railing and that's when it finally sets in, your mind, body and soul are at full rest.

With robe and slippers as the morning's attire you find the perfect position, feet up next to the fireplace and the only thing that could possibly move you away from this level of comfort is knowing that you are moments away from an incredible culinary experience at the green o's private restaurant the Social Haus.

Located in the center of the resort The Social Haus truly is where all the magic begins. A meeting place for all things good, the resort's staff of chefs, bartenders, concierges, and sommeliers take full pride in making sure the guest's needs are well

"FAMILIES OF DEER

AND A WHOLE LIST OF FOREST CRITTERS ARE A COMMON SIGHT FOR THE GUEST'S VIEWING PLEASURE, SUCH A CALMING SCENE TO FULLY PUT THE MIND AT EASE."

met beyond all expectations. Floor to ceiling windows act as a magnifying glass showcasing the beauty of the pine laden forest before you with the Social Haus literally surrounded by giant trees as far as the eye can see. Families of deer and a whole list of forest critters are a common sight for the guest's viewing pleasure, such a calming scene to fully put the mind at ease.

It all starts with the imaginative mindset of green o's Executive Chef Brandon Cunningham, the culinary genius behind what keeps guests with a smile on their face each time they sit down for a meal.

Cunningham, who hails from Portland,

Oregon brings his artistic nature to his open concept kitchen and with his award-winning team of sous and pastry chefs under his helm it is safe to say you will be pleasantly surprised with each plate that is presented before you.

Breakfast at the Social Haus is one that never disappoints, start your day off with bursting flavors such as the ricotta beignets, (which are dusted in dried raspberry powder and then submerged in rainier cherry sauce), for a little more substance opt for the whipped omelet with foraged mushrooms and cheese that is perfectly paired with the smashed potatoes with a swipe of guajillo romesco, and lastly a bowl of house yogurt with fresh berries and honeycomb is a medley of flavor profiles

that absolutely cannot be missed. Dinner at the Social Haus is an experience all within itself, each night acting as a display of the team's artful creativity that is showcased in their daily tasting menu. Ranging from 8 to 11 small plates depending on the day and what ingredients were sustainably foraged Chef Cunningham and his team bring a playful presentation with every plate that is delivered to the table. One can easily tell how much passion and fervor that goes into the mindfulness of each multi-course culinary journey, delicately complex yet bursting in flavor, each dish plays on the next all coming together to create a meal of a lifetime.

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While it would be quite easy to see what Chef Cunningham is serving up each day at Social Haus a few other dining experiences will surely be calling your name during your time at the green o. A mere 5-minute drive from the Social Haus and you arrive at Tank and Trough, a staple dining experience at The Resort at Paws Up. A side-by-side bar and restaurant, Tank and Trough offer a true casual fine dining experience with a flair. Pull up a chair on the patio at Trough and take in the Big Sky that Montana is so famous for, iconic blue skies painted with white wispy clouds as far as the eye can see. It would be a sin not to try the Rodeo Burger, a beef burger with bacon, onion rings all slathered in a huckleberry BBQ sauce with a view of the Montana mountains in the distance, it simply doesn't get better than this.

Another must do while on property is the Chuck Wagon Dude Ranch experience.

A short 10-minute drive takes you to a location right next to the Blackfoot River where the staff has set up an authentic Chuck Wagon BBQ dinner that is truly one for the ages. Take a ride in a horse drawn wagon, listen to live music or just sit back and take in all that is before you, this truly is Montana in a nutshell. The team of chefs puts together a feast made for a king or a queen, BBQ salmon, chicken, tomahawk steaks, baby back ribs and all the fixings make for a meal you will never forget.

intrigue of paying a visit to an actual ghost town. Jump in your Polaris off road vehicle, strap on your helmet, goggles and dust scarf, it’s time for an adrenaline pumping mountain tour!

A 45-minute jaunt full speed ahead through twists and turns of the Montana wilderness and you arrive at the abandoned town of Garnet. Over a century ago this once thriving gold-mining town served as a bustling community to over 1000 people yet after several fires ravaged the area its inhabitants were forced to leave. Today this well-preserved state regulated ghost town is on full display for the guests of green o to be able to visualize a day in the life of families living back in that time period.

After a day of exhilarating adventure making your way through the property’s activity list what could be a better way to rest and relax than a visit to Spa Town? Set just minutes away from the resort's Wilderness Outpost, Spa Town is a collection of luxury tents stitched together by an ambling boardwalk that serve as your oasis of wellness during your stay.

Surrounded by wilderness, with only the sounds of nature before you, it is a matter of seconds before you achieve full balance of mind, body, and soul. Choose from a variety of spa services ranging from couple's massages, facials, pedicures all the way to purifying mineral mud wraps. For those who opt to burn just a few more calories (thank you again Chef Cunningham) the resort's state of the art gym facility awaits at Spa Town fully equipped for the ultimate strength training and cardiovascular workouts.

The green o, a true adults only luxury mountain escape where you can be away from it all yet somehow find yourself as active as you have ever wanted to be. Whether you are taking a time out soaking in your outdoor hot tub or blazing new trails on an ATV you will not have a worry in the world. The beautiful juxtaposition of nature meeting luxury is everything that green o stands for where guests can leave all the stresses of their daily lives and come to a place that is as close to heaven as it gets.

Although the dining program at green o is one that can draw guests in all by itself the entire property at The Resort at Paws Up is most well-known for its unending list of world-class adventures that can be experienced during your stay. With 37,000 acres of unbridled Montana beauty before you, time is of the essence, strap on those cowboy boots, you are about to embark on a vacation of a lifetime. Each guest that stays at the green o resort gets their very own Lexus hybrid vehicle which serves as your liaison to a world of adventure that starts at the property’s Wilderness Outpost.

Choose from daily activities such as fly fishing on the Blackfoot River, white water rafting, ATV tours around the property, horseback riding, mountain bike tours, hey why not try your best shot at sporting clays at the resort's shooting range? One standout activity that cannot be missed during your time at green o is the Garnet Ghost town tour, an ideal combination of thrill-seeking adventure coupled with the 107

PLAYA LARGO

By Kelly Magyarics

Perched just south of glitzy, showy South Beach and still a two-plus hour drive from anythinggoes Key West, it’s all too easy to keep heading south on Route 1 and completely pass over Key Largo. That travel strategy is a shame, though, as the town is truly a gem in the Florida Keys. And no resort better melds barefoot luxury with the area’s laid-back vibe than Playa Largo Resort & Spa, an Autograph Collection Hotel.

The property, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay on this narrow stretch of land, encapsulates Floribbean flair and old Florida charm, with 177 accommodations, many of which overlook the water or lush, tropical gardens. Rooms and suites come with a king or two queen beds, with or without a balcony; for more space to spread out, book one of the ten two-story villas, which feature back porches surrounded by flowers and foliage, upper decks and island-inspired furnishings. A sojourn in the

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Key Largo, FL

beach house offers the ultimate in luxury, which touts three master bedrooms, wraparound balconies, a private pool and beach and a lawn to relax or host events from weddings to birthday parties.

Blessedly, this is not one of those resorts where you must awaken before dawn to stake out and claim available lounge chairs; there are always plenty of shady and sunny spots to be had on the deck next to the free-form, zero-entry pool.

Treat yourself during your stay to a cabana, set up with loungers on the outside, and a sofa, table and chairs, television and storage on the inside; the Sandy Shores cabana package adds in niceties like a fruit platter, appetizers, infused water, lavender cooling towels, a pitcher of Sangria or bottle of bubbly and a beverage credit. If you are feeling peckish, order a basket of sweet local steamed shrimp or a mahi mahi sandwich with jicama slaw and Key lime aioli delivered right to your seat, and sip it with the Island Menth, a gin riff on a Mojito with muddled lime and cucumber.

No matter what your vantage point on the poolscape, it’s lots of fun to try to spot the the iguanas who have made the property

their home, either climbing up to or cozying into the leaves at the top of the palm trees, cooling off in the shallow water or even joining you on your chair for a little R&R. If splashing in the saltwater is more your thing, step into the bay, which is tranquil any time of day. Swim, wade, grab a kayak, Hobiecat or paddleboard, take out a float

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and nod off for an hour, or grab your friends and jump on the large tethered inflatable pillow just offshore. There’s even a high-top table and Adirondack chairs for four in the water if you care to Frosé-all-day while keeping your feet wet. Just be sure to tear yourself away from the resort one day for at least the morning or afternoon to venture on an expedition to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park--the first undersea park in the United States--or the adjacent Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Both offer some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving you’ll find anywhere.

The less ambitious may opt for an afternoon at the spa, with a light-tomedium massage (“The Soothing Wave”) or deep massage (“The Depths), with optional enhancements including hot stones, cold therapy cryosphere, aromatherapy, Moroccan oil body butter or hair mask to offset all that time spent in the sun.

For dinner, reserve a table by the water at the rustic and romantic Sol by the Sea, where you’ll find fresh local catches like spicy conch fritters, and the catch of the day seared, grilled or blackened. The sleek Las Olas crudo and sushi bar next to the lobby serves up wahoo ceviche macerated in citrus, papaya, passion fruit and Key lime-infused pisco and tuna tartare with yuzu and avocado. La Marea is known for Mediterranean spins on local ingredients, like grilled whole snapper with kalamata olives, basil and garlic, or pistachio-crusted grouper with capers and heirloom tomatoes.

At sunset, sway the day away on one of the resort’s unique tripod hammocks, whose clever metal frames let three of you relax and chat about plans for tomorrow just steps from the water. Each day comes to a close with an Eventide Ceremony, during which guests are treated to a cocktail of the day like a pineapple mojito and invited to write down a concern on a piece of brown parchment and toss it into a metal cauldron: “When you let go of expectations, the world becomes full of opportunities,” a framed sign points out.

As the sun sets over Florida Bay, the cauldron is lit and set to float out to sea, taking guests’ worries with it--a fitting way to usher in the evening in a locale that’s utterly carefree.

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MONGE AMORE EVENTS Your first day as a newlywed is one of the most important days of your life. Monge Amore Events (M.A.E.) is there to make sure your first kiss, your first dance, your first meal, and your first experiences as husband and wife are as beautiful as your love for one another. Contact us today!

WWW.MONGEAMOREEVENTS.COM

PORTUGAL'S ROUTE 66:

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Road trips offer a rewarding way to explore and create memories in a new country. The editors at International Living have just released an eight-day itinerary for hitting the road on Portugal’s ‘Route 66’ through the nation’s heartland—a worthwhile and rewarding expedition.

It’s hard to beat the slower pace, the backroads options, the pleasant surprises found off the beaten track in a country – especially today in Portugal. From north to south, and from the Atlantic west to the Spanish east, this country’s gracious people, brilliant sun, tantalizing beaches, and verdant valleys provide a varied landscape, historic points of interest, delightful towns, and a worthwhile adventure.

in the city of Chaves, and ends at the city of Faro in the Algarve. It passes through rugged mountains, the exquisite, terraced vineyards of the Douro, historic villages, and ends along the impressive coastline.

The Estrada Nacional 2, or just N2, is the longest national road in Portugal at 739 kilometers. In fact, it’s one of the longest national roads in the world, outdistanced only by Route 66 in the U.S. and Route 40 in Argentina. The N2 begins in the far north, below the Spanish border

Day 1: Chaves, Vidago, Pedras Salgadas, Vila Pouca de Aguiar, Castelo, Vila Real Chaves, a charming city with a population of about 42,000, retains its old town center, complemented by a medieval castle with gardens

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In this just-released itinerary, International Living outlines the best way to navigate Portugal’s ‘Route 66’ in eight days.

offering mountain views in the distance. Historic churches, tiny shops, and restaurants dot the city while a well-preserved Roman bridge crosses the Tâmega river.

Pick up an N2 passport at the nearby tourist office and have it stamped, officially marking the start of this iconic road trip.

The passport book includes a map and suggests 35 stops along the route, with indications of places to have the passport stamped as a nice keepsake.

Vidago and Pedras Salgadas are both known for their thermal waters and famous spas that date back to the 19th century.

Vidago has a former palace which has been turned into a pricey spa and hotel, while Pedras Salgadas has an expansive park and natural area. Since we found no free spots to access the thermal waters, we snapped a few photos and hit the road.

Vila Pouca de Aguiar was by far one of our favorite stops along the N2. Dating back to Roman times, one of the mustsee’s here was a castle situated in the mountains, accessed by a craggy, unpaved road. Upon closer look, we realized that the castle was nothing more than a small, ruined tower and decided it was not worth hiking up to. As Clyde pulled the car over, looking for a spot to safely turn around, we stumbled upon a tiny village of granite homes where time had seemingly come to a standstill. A small community of mostly elderly farmers lived in this village called “Castelo,” aptly named for the castle that once stood nearby. Since we were in their private space, we asked permission in Portuguese to take photographs, and all happily obliged, even including themselves in a few.

Vila Real, a city in northern Portugal, has a population of 51,000 and is composed of stately old homes adorned with wrought-iron balconies. A lively central plaza is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, along with a huge hospital complex.

On the outskirts of the city is the House of Mateus, a stately private mansion with extensive gardens open to the public by tour only.

The Mateus family has been producing quality wines for the past 75 years, and the opulent house attests to their success.

Day 2: The Alto Douro Wine Region and Peso da Régua The city of Porto is a popular destination for those who desire to see the spectacular views of the Douro Valley and river by the same name. Yet, the lesser-known area called the Alto Douro sits virtually unnoticed in the center of the country, near the city of Peso da Régua. Tourists here can take day trips along the Douro River. Some offer round-trip voyages while others offer train rides back from Porto.

This was another favorite stop on our road trip. Breathtaking views of lush vineyards climbing the impressive hills that surrounded the area. Jaw-dropping scenery as far as our eyes could see. I could almost taste the fragrant wines that filled the air, but that indulgence would need to wait until later.

We spent an extra night in Peso da Régua, a city of 17,000 that sits alongside the Douro River. The city once served as a vital component 114

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in the country’s wine production and the sale of port wine. It was here that the wine was put into barrels and shipped to Vila Nova de Gaia, near Porto, where it was left to age in wine cellars. Today the area is dotted with elegant mansions perched on hills, surrounded by impressive, terraced vineyards bearing signs with the names of the families who own them.

Day 3: Lamego, Castro Daire, Viseu Lamego, an ancient city of about 12,000, sits nestled among the terraced vineyards of the Douro. It has retained its historic city center, characterized by steep, rocky streets leading up to its medieval castle. A few handsome churches still exist nearby, while locals mingle with friends at nearby cafes.

The stunning Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedios, erected in 1750, is where tourists climb the imposing baroque staircase (which has 686 steps). Those who make it to the top are rewarded with a panoramic view overlooking the area.

Castro Daire is a small village with a cobbled old town, and a handful of churches and historic buildings to see.

Viseu, a lively city of about 99,000, is situated in the center of Portugal. Surrounded by mountains, the city incorporates a sizeable, historic town center that offers stately fountains and historic

buildings. A bustling cafe culture offers an animated mix of tourists and locals. Not far from the city center is a large university that gives the city a youthful, vibrant feel.

Day 4: Santa Comba Dão, Góis, Penacova, Schist Villages Santa Comba Dão, a fairy tale village, drips with Portuguese charm.

An adorable wooden bridge crossed the river as we watched ducks float by from the wooden walkway. The streets were lined with traditional granite houses where locals peered out from open-shuttered windows, wondering who the strangers in the neighborhood were.

Góis is a sleepy village offering a swimming area along the river, surrounded by a nice family-friendly green space. A riverfront cafe offers cold drinks or a place to chill on a hot summer afternoon.

Penacova features a family-friendly natural area and beach along the Mondego River, the perfect spot for swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing. Nearby windmills offer a picturesque remembrance of the past.

Schist Villages, or Aldeia do Xisto in Portuguese, are hidden communities in the mountains where homes are constructed from schist, a type of flat rock commonly found in the area. Although there are 27 schist villages in Portugal, some are more special than others.

We took a brief detour off the N2 to visit a few of these magical gems.

Some offered lodging for hikers passing through the area on marked trails, but most did not offer anything in the way of restaurants or shopping.

Day 5: Abrantes, Penedo Furado, Água Formosa, Geodesic Center, Sertã Abrantes is a working-class Portuguese city of about 40,000 that sits on the hillside of the River Tagus. Although the city has a castle and some historic remnants, this felt like a modern, livable city with a large shopping mall and a modern vibe.

Penedo Furado is an area known for its river beach, with a waterfall surrounded by green hills and mountains. We passed through and moved on to our next destination. Água Formosa was a pleasant surprise that took us away from the N2 for a short detour. Another one of the famous schist villages, here locals live off the land as they did so long ago, and welcome visitors into their community.

Geodesic Center of Portugal is a museum and monument that denotes the center of Portugal, near the city of Vila de Rei. Nothing more than a quick stop—this is one of those touristy spots in which to stop and take a photo to prove we have been there.

Sertã is a municipality in the Castelo Branco district that sits along the Zêzere River. With a population of 15,000, this typical Portuguese city has an unusual five-cornered castle that offers views of the Serra da Estrela mountains.

Day 6: Évora Another favorite stop along the N2 is the city of Évora in the Alentejo region of Portugal. Considered to be a museum-city by UNESCO, the city of 56,000 has a charming old town, the best-preserved Roman

temple on the Iberian Peninsula, an extensive wall that once served to protect it, and plenty of Portuguese charm.

But even with its abundance of history, Évora has a youthful feel because of its large university, the second oldest in the country.

Day 7: Montemor-O-Novo, Beja Montemor-O-Novo, a hidden gem in the Évora district, was a jawdropping experience and certainly one of our favorite stops. Step back in time and stroll along the streets of this medieval village and just imagine what life was like. Follow the 1.5-kilometer, easily walkable road to see the remains of a castle, palace, church, synagogue, villas, and even a jail surrounded by breathtaking views of the Alentejo.

Our trip to Beja was a slight detour off the N2 to find accommodations for the night and to explore this other liveable city in the Alentejo region. With a population of 21,000, the city is surrounded by extensive plains of nothing as far as the eye can see. We did see a large grocery store, small shops and restaurants, lovely parks, a huge public hospital complex, and a well-preserved castle.

Day 8: Ferreira do Alentejo, Aljustrel, Castro Verde, Almodôvar, Estoi, Faro Ferreira do Alentejo is a sleepy little village with a few shops and restaurants, along with an unusual tiny chapel. Right on the main street of the village is a small, white, dome-shaped chapel decorated with pointed, black dots and trimmed in yellow.

Aljustrel is another stop in the Alentejo region that was well worth the stop. The town is famous for the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus, which has 577 zig-zagging steps with 17 landings adorned with elaborate statues, fountains, and gardens. Upon closer look we found a road that reached most of the way and offered some of the most stunning views of the Alentejo region we had ever seen.

Castro Verde, a small city with just over 7,000, has a traditional cobbled town center with a few shops, restaurants, and churches. The 18th-century Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição has a stunning interior with a golden altar that serves as a contrast to the blue- and white-tiled walls that surround it. Understated yet beautiful.

Almodôvar is a peaceful little village with a Roman bridge, church, and a strange-looking, former Chinese-style palace in the center of town.

Next, it was time to pass from the expansive plains of the Alentejo to the Atlantic coastline of the Algarve. But first we would need to tackle the 365 curves of the Serra do Caldeirão, a mountain pass which was not nearly as bad as we first thought. This area offers nothing in the way of stops for breaks or food, so it is essential to plan ahead, stocking up on water and snacks.

Estoi is a cute, Algarvian village with a tiny town center with a church and park. A handful of cafes and shops line the streets, where we saw few people.

Faro is a traditional working-class city with less of a touristy feel than the rest of the Algarve. With a population of around 40,000, it features a small marina surrounded by restaurants, hotels and shops. The large town center offers an array of cobbled streets lined with shops, restaurants, hotels, and more.

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Look Great, Feel Great MAKING SELFCARE A TOP PRIORITY IS TRENDING Self-care may be defined by the term itself – caring for yourself. Taking care of yourself so that you can be healthy, you can be well, you can do your job, you can help and care for others, and you can do all the things you need to and want to accomplish in a day.

In a society in which people are expected to work long hours and pass on vacation days, there is an underlying belief that we must always be productive – which can ultimately take away from opportunities for self-care. But by taking some time out to engage in selfcare, you may relieve the pressures of everyday life and reset yourself to get back to a healthy point where productivity is once again maximized.

Facial Lounge in CDM: The Forma Facial Who doesn’t love to feel pampered and rejuvenated?

Book yourself in at Facial Lounge, Orange County's award-winning facial spa in Newport Beach. Here you can explore a fresh, holistic approach to skincare with treatments that include vegan, organic, and nontoxic products. Facial Lounge offers a wide variety of luxurious spa services, one of their newest being the Forma Facial Skin Tightening treatment. This is an innovative way to lift the sagging or wrinkly skin that comes with aging, but without any invasive procedures using needles and knives. Best of all, there is zero pain and zero recovery time needed! We know it may sound too good to be true, but here’s how it works! Radio frequency technology is used to trigger the skin’s deep tissue, and because the human body is amazing, our body's natural skin-plumping system responds to this stimulation by producing new collagen. As a result, the skin's suppleness and shape are improved, giving it a firmer, tighter, and completely natural look.

This FDA-approved Forma Facial is not just for your face! It works anywhere with loose skin or wrinkles and can be done in other treatment areas such as the neck, arms, inner & outer thighs, and abdomen. The results are long-lasting and natural-looking. As always, Facial Lounge founder Amber Rose Johnson is bringing the very best skincare options to her clients with a holistic

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and personalized approach. And like with all facial treatments, Facial Lounge makes you feel pampered, peaceful, and revitalized throughout the whole process.

Don’t sleep on this non-invasive, thermal skin treatment to combat the effects of aging and gravity on your skin.

Book your appointment with Facial Lounge in CDM today to look and feel your best!

Pamper yourself by the Ocean If you are looking for a more rejuvenating and tranquil way to spend your day, look no further than The Spa at Balboa Bay Resort. This spa is a glorious safe haven within a sanctuary. Open for resort guests and locals you will feel personally pampered and exclusively cared for during every visit. With a list of decadent treatments from massage services, signature body therapies, saunas, whirlpools and steam rooms, you couldn’t ask for a more elegant experience. Specialty treatments including massages and facials are completely customized to your therapeutic needs. Indulge in the Harborside Massage, a full body restorative experience completely customized to release all tension and stress from your body. The Hydrating Cactus Facial is especially beneficial and derived from organic plant ingredients to hydrate and heal even the most sensitive skin. You will leave your spa experience feeling like a brand-new person, invigorated and ready to take on the rest of your evening.

This Season's Hot Hotels

four seasons resort dubai at Jumeirah Beach

You have not experienced glamour until you’ve been to the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach. This beachside resort is a traveler’s playground, perfectly located on the Arabian Coast, just minutes from all the pleasures and key business hubs of this open, modern city. You’ll of course recognize the Four Seasons’ name, which has redefined luxury for the modern traveler since its inception in 1961. As the Four Seasons extended its global presence around the world, the resort at Jumeirah Beach was developed in 2014. This resort upholds Dubai’s reputation for excellence in service and hospitality, as well as lavish amenities and indulgences to spoil every guest.

As you wander through the resort, you’ll be taken aback by its opulence. The main level and grand foyer has magnificently high ceilings and is decorated with elegant gold furnishings. With floor-toceiling windows around every corner, endless rays of the strong desert sunlight pour in and bounce off the gold décor. The 237 guest rooms and suites are airy and spacious, beautifully furnished to reflect the same crisp sophistication of the entire resort. Each room is equipped with a deep-soaking tub, generously providing guests the utmost relaxation without ever leaving the comfort of their rooms.

The prestigious Jumeirah neighborhood has been compared to Beverly Hills with its mansions and celebrity hotspots. It boasts cafes, shops and galleries within walking distance. Bordering Dubai's longest stretch of natural beachfront, it is also just a few minutes from the commercial district, Mall of the Emirates, as well as Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, and other tourist attractions of Downtown Dubai. Jumeirah Beach is obviously one of the biggest draws of the resort. Depending on what time of year you are visiting, soaring summer temperatures will test your resolve and send you straight for either of the resort’s two pools. You can enjoy cocktails in a private, air-conditioned villa at the serene adults-only pool or play around in an active pool that’s ideal for families and bigger groups, also lined with private cabanas for rent.

Dubai has some of the world’s best dining opportunities and this resort is no exception. Enjoy a beachfront view while dining at the Asian-inspired seafood restaurant and bar, Sea Fu. For refreshing hand-crafted cocktails, head up to the Mercury Lounge and take in Dubai’s iconic skyline or watch the Arabian seas dance in the moonlight. A special mention goes to the resort’s sister property, The Four Seasons in the Financial District. After you have sampled the dining offerings at Jumeirah, run, don’t walk, to Mina Brasserie, created by award-winning Chef Michael Mina. As you peruse the grand menu, sip on their master cocktail creation, The Starry Night Cocktail, named aptly after the famed van Gogh painting because of its magical blue and purple swirling colors. The lavish drink combines Silvermoon tea and lemongrass flavors with colorful liqueur to create a masterpiece in a glass. Begin your dining experience by ordering any one of the menu’s rich and devilish appetizers. Then be sure to leave yourself room to savor their master dish, the Lobster Pot Pie, served with lobster bisque cream, oyster mushroom, baby root vegetables, and fresh truffle, all wrapped in a buttery pie crust that melts in your mouth. The only disappointment will be that your stomach isn’t big enough to try one of everything they offer!

No trip to Dubai would be complete without an epic desert excursion with Arabian Adventures. Start your desert safari by jumping into a sand-covered 4x4 Land Cruiser that will pick you up directly from the hotel. This beast of a vehicle will keep you safe as you rocket through the empty desert for what the locals call “dune bashing.” It’s a thrilling joyride unlike anything you’ve experienced, through the sand dunes of Dubai. Your adventure continues with an incredible camel-back ride. Ride tandem or solo on these robust desert mammals and get an incredible selfie to prove it! Finish off your excursion with a delicious buffet of Arabic foods, coffee, local desserts, and more! Partake in local activities like Shisha and Henna painting, and enjoy cultural dance performances as the desert sun sets behind the infinite sand dunes you’ve spent the day exploring. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience you will never forget!

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HOLIDAY 2021

The Four Seasons Dubai at Jumeirah Beach is the epitome of opulence. If Dubai wasn’t on your Bucket List before, it should quickly make its way to the top. From the world-class hospitality and beachfront views to its divine dining offerings, this luxurious stay will be one of the best experiences of your life.

You’ll be dreaming of this resort for years to come!

hard rock hotel

Hot Hotels

san diego, ca

Appropriately located in the notoriously lively Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego, The Hard Rock Hotel San Diego is truly at the center of it all. Since opening their first Hard Rock Café in 1971, Isaac Tigrett and Peter Morton’s hotels are rooted in the spirit of music. It all began when rock legend Eric Clapton donated his guitar to London’s original Hard Rock Café and the rest is history!

The Hard Rock San Diego is no exception. Living up to the infamous Hard Rock name, this hotel is where VIP service meets urban-chic design, sporting music memorabilia around every corner.

As you enter this iconic hotel, you’ll be immediately attracted to the full LED wall behind the check-in counter. Playing footage of rock concerts from around the world, you are now completely immersed and surrounded by the music scene that this hotel brand was built upon. The décor is hip and contemporary, with clean lines and colors directing your attention to all of the music mementos adorning the walls. There’s also a cool “Rock Shop” selling Hard Rock’s exclusive clothing line, and other iconic collectibles any music-lover will want to check out.

Hard Rock San Diego offers many services for guests that value the VIP treatment. The guest suites are spacious and plush, already making you feel like a rock star! The pops of bright color everywhere, the large deluxe beds, the oversized showers, and the stunning views of downtown San Diego really elevate your stay. For extra comfort, space, and style, upgrade to one of the Rock Star suites. These apartment-style suites come with all the standard amenities, plus a comfy lounge area with a fireplace, a beautiful dining area that seats 6, and a private outdoor terrace. Some even come with a Jacuzzi spa on the balcony for extra relaxation and in-room comfort! Talk about luxury!

Of course, we can’t talk about Hard Rock without complimenting the worldclass dining and ultra-hip nightlife in this area. You don't have to go far to sample some of San Diego's finest dining. Mary Jane’s Diner is a legendary eatery in the hotel, serving delicious menu options from Tijuana benedicts to Baja fish tacos. For trendy, A-list dining, make a reservation at Nobu, brought to you from Tokyo-trained sushi chef Nobu Matsuhisa. If you know Nobu, you know it is worth the international hype. For something causal and entertaining, spend your afternoon at the rooftop pool deck in a deluxe cabana.

Savor refreshing cocktails and bites throughout your day or come up to enjoy happy hour on a fireside lounge chair, while live bands serenade you well into the night.

The Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego has some of the best restaurants, bars, and nightlife in California. The hotel’s convenient location puts you right in the middle of it all, easily walking distance from the restaurants and bars, a few short blocks from Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres, and across the street from the San Diego Convention Center. If walking isn’t your thing, not to worry the hotel has partnered with San Diego's premier bike brand, Electra Bicycles, providing you with user-friendly cruisers for a smooth ride for free during your stay. Whether you’re doing an afternoon bar hop or checking out the harbor at Seaport Village, wheel around and appreciate the beauty and excitement of downtown.

Every Hard Rock Hotel takes the spirit of its destination and blends it with a vibrant collection of music and memorabilia. At Hard Rock San Diego, you are in for an entertainment-filled trip, with endless activities and opportunities at your fingertips.

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Hot Hotels

ocean park inn san diego, ca

Right in the heart of Pacific Beach, positioned directly on the boardwalk, The Ocean Park Inn is the ideal beach hotel for your SoCal stay. This family-owned hotel has been a staple in the San Diego community since the 1960s, so they’ve had decades to perfect the Southern California beach vacation. The entire hotel, including the guest suites, has just been remodeled and reinvented this year to showcase an ambitious, fresh take on mid-century style paired with the same casual beach vibe we all know and love.

Greeted by a warm, friendly smile and a welcome gift, guests are in for a treat from the moment they step inside for check-in until they check out. The Ocean Park Inn concierge and front desk operators are incredibly kind and knowledgeable, eager to offer suggestions for dinner spots or local activities. With just 72 guest rooms, this hotel has an intimate feel and guests are treated and checked in on like they are family.

The beautiful, newly unveiled guest suites are clean and contemporary, with the same funky and fun energy of Downtown San Diego. Grab yourself a suite with one king bed or two queens, or give yourself more space to lounge around and spread out in a two-room suite with kitchenette. Guests will appreciate the chic, streamlined furnishings paired with bright pops of mint green, white, black, and sun-drenched yellow. The walls are adorned with vintage surfing photographs, custom-designed furnishings, and thoughtful mid-century decor. With gorgeous balconies overlooking the boardwalk or the hotel pool, you are sure to savor that cool ocean breeze as you experience blissful relaxation with a book, a coffee or a cocktail.

If you haven’t been won over already, Ocean Park Inn guests can enjoy several special amenities throughout their stay. The hotel offers complimentary wifi, laundry services, complimentary robes and towels to use in your suite, at the pool, and at the beach, and the hotel has direct beach access for guests. If you’d like to take a dip, the hotel has a beautiful heated pool and spa located in the interior courtyard, with its own completely unobstructed view of the beach. Spend all day here, relaxing and people-watching on the boardwalk, or just pop in to cool off after a long day in the sun, salt, and sand.

If you aren’t familiar with the San Diego area, Pacific Beach (PB, as the locals call it) is a very exciting, active area in San Diego, with great bars, restaurants, shopping, water sports, and long stretches of beautiful swimming beaches. Because of the Ocean Park Inn’s opportune location, you are walking distance from all the hot spots in dining and entertainment. It’s convenient and appropriate for couples and families alike. This boutique hotel absolutely nails every amenity, every aspect you could want for your beach getaway. The hotel is beautiful, but nothing tops the location - you’ll have a front-row-center view of the beckoning, sandy beach and foamy shoreline. With the sound of the crashing waves lulling you to sleep each night and gently waking you each morning, does it get any better than that? It’s the quintessential beach vacation. If you are looking into San Diego, the Ocean Park Inn is a must!

the resort at pelican hill

Hot Hotels

newport coast, ca

Mediterranean elegance paired with panoramic views, immaculate service and world class golf, just a few things that you can expect from Orange County's premier beach resort, the one and only, Pelican Hill.

From the sprawling and immaculately groomed grounds, to the breathtaking views of Newport Coast, The Resort at Pelican Hill is truly the best of the best. Perched on top of 500 acres of coastal beauty as well as being surrounded by 50,000 acres of protected land, this sanctuary opened its doors in 2008, and has done nothing but amaze and impress ever since.

Guests will appreciate a private residential-style villa or bungalow, complete with a limestone fireplace, private terrace, marble bath, and the quintessential Southern California ocean view. Rooms are spacious and glamorous and filled with inspirations of the Mediterranean everywhere you turn. The décor is classy and elegant, yet still holding a level of comfort that is second to none. Large framed windows garnish each wall, allowing the dazzling sunshine to spill in and blur the lines between indoors and outdoors. With attentive staff around every corner anticipating your needs and desires, Pelican Hill provides world-class service every step of the way.

One could not mention the Resort at Pelican Hill without highlighting the world-class golf course that perfectly complements the mind blowing views all throughout the property. The award- winning Pelican Hill Golf Club designed by Tom Fazio, (one of the world’s most distinguished course architects) stands in a league of its own when it comes to Southern California golf. With 36-holes and two courses that weave through jaw-dropping scenery, this golf course is a California favorite of professionals and amateurs alike. Several hole locations offer such picturesque viewpoints that you may just want to pull up a chair and take it all in. Passing sailboats in the distance, breaching whales, pods of dolphins, parasailers and more, views like this truly are one in a million. With vantage points all throughout the course that are beyond insta-worthy combined with a world-class layout that challenges even the best of golfers, it is no wonder this award winning course has a quarter century of accolades to its name.

If you are looking for a more rejuvenating and tranquil way to spend your day, look no further than The Spa at Pelican Hill. A glorious safe haven within a sanctuary the staff of spa therapists take full pride in delivering the most opulent experience from the moment you enter the lobby. Open for resort guests only, you will feel personally pampered and exclusively cared for during each and every treatment.

22 private treatment rooms serve as individual hideaways with a plethora of treatments including massages, facials, body wraps, manicures, pedicures and more which are all completely customized to your therapeutic needs. Indulge in the Himalayan Salt Stone Massage, a full body restorative experience featuring warm salt stones that target your tight or sore muscles to release all tension and stress from your body. You will leave your treatment. feeling brand new, fully invigorated in mind, body and soul.

Pelican Hill Resort is consistently ranked as one of the top resorts in the world so it should come as no surprise that their culinary program would be as over the top as each and every aspect of your overall stay. Several dining options can be found on property, each offering beautiful outdoor terrace dining with a fresh California sea breeze and panoramic views that are sure not to disappoint. Start your day off with a hearty breakfast at the Coliseum Grill, whether you dine indoors, out on the heated terrace or in a private cabana, there isn't a bad seat in the house. Surrounded by the property’s infinity Coliseum Pool (which has been said to be the world's largest circular pool), the views alone are enough to make this your restaurant of choice morning, noon, or night. For dinner, make sure to find your way to the Pelican Grill, it has been said this is where the true magic happens. Part grill and part bar, there couldn't be a more ideal location to end your night. With an idyllic combination of some of the best people watching in Newport Beach coupled with decadent dining and unbeatable sunset views, need we say more? Pelican Grill menu features something for all taste profiles, no matter what you are in the mood for the team of chefs have you covered. From Dungeness Crab Poutine to wood fired pizzas to butcher-cut steaks each and every meal is made with perfection.

The Resort at Pelican Hill has perfectly curated everything one could want for a picturesque, relaxing, and sophisticated resort stay. From the excellent service, to the warm and inviting villas, to the grandiose golf club and the revitalizing spa experience, this is truly a 5-star experience that has guests coming back time and time again!

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holiday house

Hot Hotels

palm springs

By Rachel Stein

If you’re seeking R&R in the desert, look no further than the Holiday House. Just a twoblock walk from downtown Palm Springs, the HH is a mid-century modern boutique that offers guests a fun and modern oasis of rest and quiet.

Built in 1951, the hotel was designed by Herbert Burns, whose architecture helped to define Palm Springs modernism. The 28-room boutique hotel has been restored, however it maintains its original architecture and mid-century cool. Today, the emphasis is on modern style and playfulness. The design centers around the Gio Ponti inspired tile-work in the bar. Plenty of artwork can be seen throughout the property as well.

This includes pieces by David Hockney, Roy Liechtenstein, Herb Ritts, Alex Katz and Mr. Brainwash, with a garden sculpture by Donald Sultan.

As you enter the modern-chic lobby; you’re greeted with a fun rosé cocktail; and while you check in, you can browse all the unique art and books.

Quiet is the theme here. As you lounge by the pool, you can drift away. Try one of the hotel’s special rum-based cocktails and engage in small talk with the other hotel guests.

The hotel amenities include: shuffleboard and loaner bikes. Guests are welcomed to an enjoyable updated continental breakfast with yogurt, granola, eggs, and coffee/tea. Be sure to try some of the delicious banana bread as well.

Since the hotel is only a five minute walk to downtown, you can browse all the midcentury modern art galleries or restaurants without breaking a sweat. Well… maybe just a little - depending what time of year you’re there!

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Travel the World

HOT HOTELS

From Bermuda to New Zealand discover your inner explorer with these travel spots we suggest you add to your bucket list ASAP.

Matamata New Zealand

Elbe Sandstone Mountains Saxon Switzerland

Hamilton, Bermuda 126

ENDLESS SUMMER 2016

LA TRAVEL

The Twelve Apostles Victoria, Australia

Moai under the Milky Way on Easter Island

Wells Gray Provincial Park Clearwater, British Columbia

Katmai National Park Alaska

"Actually, the best gift you could have given her was a lifetime of adventures."

-Lewis Carroll

PUCHASE TICKETS AT LATRAVELMAGAZINE.COM/TOW

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