Discover What’s Next at German International School Washington D.C.
With over 550 students from preschool to 12th grade, we offer high-level academics in a warm, multicultural setting since 1961. Our German curriculum, combined with a global perspective, leads to a dual diploma graduation: the German International Abitur (DIA) and a high school diploma. Focused on world languages and science, we nurture critical thinking and prepare students for top universities worldwide. Please contact admissions@giswashington.org for your personal campus tour. German language skills are NOT a requirement for students enrolling in Preschool through Grade 5, provided the family is highly motivated for their child to learn German, and the child demonstrates strong academic performance.
Sunshine, Stories & Summer Plans
Dear Readers,
July has always felt like the heart of summer to me. It is the season of long beach days, weekend road trips, late sunsets and finding any excuse to be outside. It is also one of my favorite times to travel. Whether it is hopping on a plane to somewhere new or discovering hidden gems close to home, summer always feels like an invitation to explore.
This month, that spirit feels especially fitting.
As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, our July Explore issue is all about taking a closer look at the places, people and experiences that shape where we live and inspire where we go next. There is no better time to rediscover our own communities while also dreaming a little bigger beyond them.
Some of the best adventures do not always require a passport. Sometimes they happen right in our own backyard. In this issue, we celebrate places rich with history and character, including Prathertown: Six Generations Strong on page 16, a story that reminds us how legacy and community can endure across generations.
For those craving something delicious, turn to Capital Cravings: Icons Old and New on page 34, where we explore standout dining destinations redefining Washington’s culinary scene. Looking for a blend of history and luxury? Legacy & Luxury on page 20 explores the timeless stories and elevated experiences found along the Potomac.
And if your summer travel inspiration is calling, Escape to the Riviera Maya on page 26 may have you mentally packing your bags before you finish reading.
No matter where this season takes you, whether it is oceanside with your toes in the sand, discovering a local favorite you somehow missed or planning your next big adventure, I hope this issue encourages you to explore a little more and appreciate the stories waiting around us.
Wishing you a summer filled with sunshine, memories and a few unexpected discoveries.
See you out there,
CARLY MAC MANUS, PUBLICATION
July 2026
PUBLISHER
Adam Taylor | Adam.Taylor@CityLifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Carly Mac Manus | Carly.Mac@CityLifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
KC Cole | Kc.Cole@CityLifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Anicia Juarez | Anicia.Juarez@CityLifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bianca Bain Villegas, Carly Mac Manus
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
La Grande Boucherie DC, The Occidental, minibar, Willowsong, Pineapple and Pearls, The Wharf, InterContinental The Willard Washington, D.C., The Hay-Adams, The St. Regis Washington, D.C., The Watergate Hotel, The Greenbrier, InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf, Saundra Prather, Sandos Hotels & Resorts
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Proverbs 3:5-6
Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.
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Our practice also specializes in dental crowns and bridges, tooth colored fillings, gum contouring, porcelain veneers, and orthodontic options. Your journey to optimal oral health begins in a setting where expertise meets elegance, and your comfort and satisfaction are always our ultimate goals.
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AMERICA
YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S AROUND TOWN THIS MONTH
ARTICLE BY BIANCA BAIN VILLEGAS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
TURNS 250!
Moviesonthe Green
Swiftwaterrescue
Grill&Chill
WNBA
SUMMERFEST
Bohrer Park at Summit Hall Farm
June 28 | 6PM - 11PM
Celebrate America’s independence with friends and family at Gaithersburg’s illuminating summer festival on the expansive Bohrer Park grounds. Enjoy LIVE music, food trucks, and family fun for all with. Fireworks and a SummerGlo after party. visitmontgomery.com
NATIONAL PARKS
MONTH KICKOFF
Politics and Prose Bookstore
Washington, D.C.
July 1 | Varying Times
Celebrate National Parks Month with a special appearance by the true-life author of Grandma Joy and Me. The evening highlights stories of adventure, family, and America’s treasured national parks in one of the capital’s most beloved independent bookstores. politics-prose.com
WNBA BASKETBALL:
WASHINGTON MYSTICS VS. ATLANTA DREAM
CareFirst Arena | Washington, D.C.
July 2 | Varying Times
Catch the Washington Mystics as they host the Atlanta Dream for an exciting summer matchup at CareFirst Arena. wnba.com/mystics
OLD ANGLERS INN:
LATE AS USUAL
Old Anglers Inn | Potomac, MD
July 3 | Evening
Kick off the holiday weekend with live music in the outdoor beer garden of this historic Potomac gathering place featuring a full backline setup and relaxed summer atmosphere. oldanglersinn.com
COUNTDOWN 250 BALL
Washington Hilton, Washington, DC
July 3 | 9PM (6:30 early entry)
Celebrate the nation’s semi-quincentennial in elevated style at the Countdown 250 Ball, an evening bringing together patriotic celebration, live entertainment, and distinguished guests in anticipation of America’s 250th anniversary festivities. count down250.allamericanball.com
WORLD
Why Choose Us?
Experienced & Caring Educators – Our passionate team supports each child’s unique growth.
Engaging Curriculum – Hands-on activities in literacy, STEM, arts, and social-emotional learning.
Safe & Inclusive Space – A welcoming environment where every child feels valued.
Flexible Programs – Full-time, part-time, and preschool options for busy families.
LANGUAGE & LITERACY FOUNDATIONS
INDEPENDENCE DAY ON
THE NATIONAL MALL
National Mall | Washington, D.C.
July 4 | All Day
America’s 250th birthday takes center stage with the annual “A Capitol Fourth” concert, the Independence Day Parade, and a spectacular fireworks display illuminating the monuments and reflecting pools of the nation’s capital. nps.gov
ROCKVILLE’S INDEPENDENCE DAY
Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park
1800 Piccard Drive, Rockville, MD
July 4 | 7PM–10PM
The City of Rockville’s annual celebration returns with live music, community festivities, and a 20-minute fireworks presentation. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic essentials for an evening under the stars. rockvillemd.gov
GERMANTOWN GLORY
South Germantown Recreational Park 18041 Central Park Circle, Boyds, MD
July 4 | 7PM
Celebrate Independence Day with a performance by the Central City Orchestra followed by a dazzling fireworks display beginning around 9:15PM. Food vendors, family-friendly festivities, and open lawn seating round out the evening. montgomerycountymd.gov
BROCCOLI CITY FESTIVAL
Festival Grounds at RFK Campus
Washington, D.C.
July 10 | Varying Times
This high-energy festival merges music, culture, and community impact with performances from major Hip-Hop and R&B artists while spotlighting environmental justice and Black excellence. broccolicity.com
MOVIES ON THE GREEN SERIES
Cabin John Village | Potomac, MD
July 10 | 6:30PM
Bring blankets and lawn chairs for a complimentary outdoor movie night on the Community Green. Family activities begin before sunset, with nearby restaurants offering easy
grab-and-go dining for the evening. cabinjohnvillage.com
SWIFTWATER
RESCUE WORKSHOP
Potomac River | Potomac, MD
July 11 | Varying Times
Designed for paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts, this immersive rescue course teaches river hazard recognition, self-rescue techniques, and advanced swiftwater safety skills through hands-on scenarios and team exercises. potomacpaddlesports.com
GRILL & CHILL
Harley-Davidson of Washington, D.C. Fort Washington, MD
July 11&18 | Varying Times
Community rides, live DJs, food trucks, and local vendors create a lively summer atmosphere at this recurring gathering designed for motorcycle enthusiasts and families alike. hdofwashingtondc.com
3RD ANNUAL DMV
COMMUNITY AWARDS & FASHION SHOW GALA
Dock 5 at Union Market
July 18 | 6PM–10PM
This highly anticipated evening honors regional change makers, entrepreneurs, and creatives while spotlighting high-end fashion and community excellence throughout the DMV. The annual gala celebrates leaders making a meaningful impact across Washington, Maryland, and Virginia while supporting local resources and emerging fashion talent. VIP tickets are currently available starting at $135, with additional ticket tiers offered through the official event platform. eventbrite.com
ABRACADABRA ALEX
Potomac Library | Potomac, MD
July 18 | Varying Times
Families can enjoy an afternoon of playful illusion, comedy, and audience
participation during this lively magic performance designed for children of all ages. mcpl.libnet.info
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
The Square at Rockville | Rockville, MD
July 24 | Evening
Enjoy a complimentary outdoor performance by the Unity Reggae Band as part of Rockville’s ongoing summer concert programming. rockvilletownsquare.com
CANDYFEST
The Maryland Theatre Performing Arts Center | Hagerstown, MD
July 25 & 26 | Varying Times
This immersive candy-themed experience transforms all four floors of the venue into a playful world of games, crafts, slime making, balloon art, and interactive family fun designed especially for young children. mdtheatre.org
OTAKON
Walter E. Washington Convention Center | Washington, D.C.
July 31 – August 2 | Varying Times
Anime, manga, gaming, and Asian pop culture take over downtown D.C. during this massive three-day convention drawing fans, artists, and creators from around the world. otakon.com
NORMAN’S FARM CSA & POP-UP MARKET
Cabin John Village | Potomac, MD
Every Wednesday | 4PM–6:30PM
Norman’s Farm Market returns with weekly CSA pickup and a seasonal
farmer’s market offering fresh produce and locally sourced goods directly from the farm. normansfarmmarket.com
THE GROVE: LIVE MUSIC THURSDAYS
The Grove | Potomac, MD
Thursdays | 5PM–8PM
Extended happy hour specials and rotating live music performances make Thursday evenings at The Grove a lively summer gathering destination. instagram.com/thegrovepotomac
WEEKLY FARMERS MARKET
Cabin John Village | Potomac, MD
Sundays | 9AM–1PM
In partnership with The Maker’s Valley, this weekly market features fresh produce, artisan goods, and locally crafted specialties in an open-air village setting. cabinjohnvillage.com
CRAFTERNOON
Potomac Library | Potomac, MD
Tuesdays | Varying Times
This recurring children’s art session encourages creativity through hands-on crafts and open-ended projects in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. mcpl.libnet.info
EVENINGS IN OLDE TOWNE
Gaithersburg Concert Pavilion
Gaithersburg, MD
Select Summer Evenings | Varying Times
Enjoy complimentary outdoor concerts in the heart of Olde Towne Gaithersburg with family-friendly performances throughout the summer season. gaithersburgmd.gov
FRIDAYS AT THE FARM
Smokey Glen Farm Barbequers
Gaithersburg, MD | Fridays | Evening
This seasonal favorite pairs an allyou-can-eat crab feast and barbecue buffet with lawn games, country scenery, and relaxed summer evenings. smokeyglenfarm.com
WASHINGTON DC
SUMMER STARTS ON THE FIELD
This summer, give your child more than just a camp—give them confidence, friendships, skill development, and a season they’ll never forget.
At Rockville Soccer Club, players stay active, build teamwork, and sharpen their game in a fun, energetic environment led by experienced coaches who inspire growth at every level.
Whether your athlete is just getting started or preparing for competitive play, summer is the perfect time to train, improve, & fall even more in love with the game.
• Summer camps & training programs
• Ages 5–19 | All skill levels welcome
• Professional coaching in a positive environment
• Skill development, conditioning & teamwork
• Competitive & recreational pathways available
Set Sail aboard Mad Max for Your Next Event.
PRIVATE CHATERS SUNSET CRUISES
Prathertown: Six Generations Strong
How
one Maryland family is preserving history while shaping its future
For most families, history lives in photo albums, stories passed around holiday tables or names etched onto family trees. For the Prather family, history stretches far beyond memory. It lives in the land beneath their feet, in a community built over generations and in a place they have proudly called home for more than a century.
Long before the surrounding area transformed into the bustling communities many know today, the Prathers established deep roots in historic Prathertown. Today, members of the sixth generation continue to live there, while the seventh generation is already learning what it means to carry that history forward.
For many families, preserving traditions may mean holiday recipes or annual gatherings. For the Prathers, preservation carries a larger responsibility. It means protecting land, maintaining history and ensuring future generations understand the significance of the community around them.
“Legacy” is a word often used loosely, but in Prathertown, it takes on a very literal meaning.
As neighboring development continues expanding outward, the family says preserving the character and future of historic Prathertown has become more important than ever. Growth and progress are inevitable, but maintaining a sense of identity can often become the challenge.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
BY SAUNDRA PRATHER
Rather than allowing history to fade into memory, the Prathers are actively creating a future where heritage and progress can coexist.
That future includes plans already underway to address service gaps within the historic community while introducing new initiatives designed to strengthen and support Prathertown for years to come. While some details remain under wraps, the family hints that several exciting additions and surprises are expected to be unveiled this year.
The vision is clear: Preserve what matters while thoughtfully preparing for what comes next.
That sense of stewardship extends beyond family lines. The Prathers have made it a priority to share their story and invite others to become part of the conversation.
One of the most anticipated examples is Heritage Day in Prathertown, returning Saturday, June 27, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event offers residents and visitors an opportunity to step into local history, connect
with generations of community stories and celebrate the traditions that continue shaping the area’s identity.
For the family, Heritage Day serves as more than a gathering. It is a reminder that history becomes meaningful when it is shared.
Perhaps that is what makes the Prather story resonate so strongly, particularly as communities throughout the region prepare to celebrate America 250. Across the country, conversations around history are taking center stage. Yet in Prathertown, history is not something revisited once a year or remembered only during anniversaries.
It is lived every day.
While six generations have already shaped the story, the seventh generation is beginning to write its own chapter, learning not just where they come from, but why preserving that history matters.
In a world constantly chasing what comes next, the Prathers are proving that sometimes the most meaningful path forward begins by honoring where you started.
For more information visit prathertown.org .
Legacy & Luxury
Few waterways in America carry a story quite like the Potomac River. Long before rooftop cocktails, waterfront promenades and luxury hotels lined its shores, the Potomac served as a lifeline for commerce, politics and the shaping of a young nation. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, the river once traveled by presidents, visionaries and revolutionaries continues to define how people gather, celebrate and experience the nation’s capital.
For centuries, the Potomac has connected communities, fueled commerce and framed some of the nation’s most important moments. Today, that same river tells another story: one of reinvention. Along its shores, America’s history and modern luxury now exist side by side, creating a distinctly elevated journey through the Mid-Atlantic.
On one side of the story sit Washington’s enduring legacy properties, places where history lives not in museum cases but in grand ballrooms, marble corridors and stories whispered over generations.
The iconic InterContinental The Willard Washington, D.C., often called "the living room of America," has welcomed presidents, diplomats and world leaders for more than a century. Political deals, inaugural celebrations and defining conversations have unfolded beneath its chandeliers. Its halls remain part hotel, part living archive.
Nearby, The Hay-Adams continues to embody old-world Washington elegance. Overlooking the White House, the historic property delivers timeless luxury with one of the city’s most coveted views. The St. Regis Washington, D.C.,
“Historic ballroom chandeliers and rooftop sunset cocktails now tell the same Potomac story.”
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf
The Watergate Hotel
The Greenbrier
The Greenbrier
The Hay-Adams
The Hay-Adams
The St. Regis Washington, D.C.
Willowsong
Must-Try Dish: Milk Bread
another enduring landmark, brings nearly a century of glamour and refined hospitality to the capital.
Then there is The Watergate Hotel, whose dramatic curves and striking midcentury architecture make it one of Washington’s most recognizable addresses. Positioned along the Potomac, the hotel occupies a unique place in both design and political history. Long associated with one of the most talked-about moments in American history, the property has evolved far beyond the headlines that first made it famous. Today, following a thoughtful renovation, The Watergate blends sleek contemporary luxury with subtle nods to its storied past. Guests can take in rooftop views overlooking the Kennedy Center and Potomac, unwind in sophisticated surroundings and experience a property that remains one of Washington’s most recognizable and enduring destinations.
Beyond Washington, another icon quietly continues its own remarkable chapter.
Nestled within the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia, The Greenbrier has welcomed guests since 1778, dating back to the Revolutionary era and placing it on the
CONTINUED >
mom, Kirsten and
Luxury Icons
InterContinental The Willard Washington, D.C. 1401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. washington.intercontinental.com
The Hay-Adams 800 16th St. NW, Washington, D.C. | hayadams.com
The St. Regis Washington, D.C 923 16th and K St. NW, Washington, D.C. | marriott.com
The Watergate Hotel 2650 Virginia Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. | thewatergatehotel.com
The Greenbrier 101 Main St. W, White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia | greenbrier.com
InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf 801 Wharf St. SW, Washington, D.C. | dcwharf.intercontinental.com
Willowsong
Located inside InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf 801 Wharf St. SW, Washington, D.C. | willowsongdc.com
Must-Try Dish: Milk Bread
Willowsong’s signature milk bread became an instant guest favorite, with nearly 3,000 orders sold during the restaurant’s opening year. Warm, buttery and perfectly shareable, the dish reflects the restaurant’s elevated yet approachable Mid-Atlantic dining philosophy.
doorstep of America's own 250-year celebration. Known as "America’s Resort," the legendary retreat began as a destination where visitors traveled to experience the area's natural mineral springs. Over nearly two and a half centuries, The Greenbrier has hosted 28 U.S. presidents, international dignitaries and generations of travelers seeking equal parts grandeur and escape.
History permeates every corner. During the Civil War, the property served as a hospital and military command center. Decades later, it housed a secret Cold War congressional bunker hidden beneath the resort. Yet despite its remarkable past, The Greenbrier never feels frozen in time.
Dorothy Draper’s vibrant interiors, grand staircases and signature hospitality continue to make it feel both nostalgic and unexpectedly fresh.
These destinations represent a version of luxury rooted in permanence, places that have endured because they offer more than accommodations. Voted a favorite by Potomac Lifestyle Publisher KC Cole and must-see, especially during the holidays! They preserve experiences.
Still, the Potomac’s newest chapter may be equally compelling.
Along Washington’s Southwest waterfront, The Wharf has transformed into one of the capital’s most dynamic luxury destinations. Once an industrial waterfront, the area now blends marinas, music venues, restaurants and waterfront living into a modern gathering place that feels distinctly Washington.
Among its standout properties, InterContinental Washington D.C. – The Wharf offers a sophisticated interpretation of waterfront hospitality. Floor-to-ceiling views overlook the Potomac, while rooftop spaces frame sunsets that seem designed specifically for long evenings and unhurried cocktails.
Inside the hotel, Willowsong has quickly emerged as one of the waterfront’s most exciting culinary experiences.
Named for the willow trees woven throughout the nation’s capital, the restaurant celebrates the Mid-Atlantic’s
agricultural abundance through a modern American menu led by Executive Chef Jeffrey Williams. Nearly 60% of ingredients are sourced within 150 miles of Washington, creating dishes that feel deeply connected to the surrounding region.
Williams returns to Washington after building an acclaimed career across Los Angeles and Miami, earning recognition through national television appearances and culinary accolades along the way.
One menu item has already developed a following of its own: Willowsong’s milk bread.
The restaurant sold nearly 3,000 orders during its opening year, transforming a seemingly simple dish into something guests now seek out intentionally. Warm, rich and perfectly indulgent, it reflects the larger philosophy behind Willowsong: familiar flavors elevated through craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Inspired by a favorite milk bread from Little Tokyo in Los Angeles, Williams created his own pull-apart version rooted in a traditional milk bread recipe. The dough is intentionally slightly over-proofed, then steamed before baking, allowing each order to be prepared fresh and creating its signature texture. Served with brown butter whipped with miso and yuzu and finished with salmon roe, the dish balances sweet and savory flavors in a way that feels both elevated and comforting.
The pairing feels fitting. Along the Potomac, the story has always been about gathering.
Centuries ago, that meant trade routes and diplomacy. Today, it may look like rooftop cocktails overlooking the river, dinner reservations at the waterfront or weekends spent wandering between historic landmarks and luxury hotels.
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, the Potomac remains what it has always been: a place where stories converge.
Only now, historic ballroom chandeliers share the spotlight with rooftop sunsets.
And history comes with a waterfront view.
Traditional Greek cuisine with vegetarian options served in a cozy setting with table and counter service.
With more than twenty years of restaurant experience and hospitality, come and visit Ela Mesa Taste of Greece, located in the heart of Gaithersburg.
We are open seven days a week Mon-Thurs: 11am -9pm | Fri-Sat: 11am-930pm | Sun: 11am-830pm
ESCAPE TO THE RIVIERA MAYA
TWO ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS, ONE UNFORGETTABLE MEXICAN GETAWAY
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SANDOS HOTELS & RESORTS
Sandos Caracol Nature Resort & Water Park
“Two distinct ways to experience the magic of Mexico’s Caribbean coast.”
There’s something about landing in Mexico that instantly shifts your mindset. Maybe it’s the warm Caribbean breeze that greets you the moment you step off the plane. Maybe it’s the promise of slower mornings, saltwater afternoons and tacos enjoyed by the beach. Or maybe it’s simply knowing that for the next few days, someone else is making the margaritas.
This July, we’re heading to the Riviera Maya for a firsthand look at two standout all-inclusive resorts from Sandos Hotels & Resorts: Sandos Caracol Nature Resort & Water Park and Sandos Playacar. While both sit along Mexico’s breathtaking Caribbean coastline, each offers a distinctly different vacation experience, making it easy for travelers to choose the getaway that best fits their style.
For families craving adventure, wildlife and nonstop activities, Sandos Caracol Nature Resort & Water Park feels like stepping into a tropical playground hidden within the jungle. Located just outside Playa del Carmen, the sprawling eco-focused resort blends nature, culture and entertainment in a way that feels uniquely Riviera Maya. Guests can swim in a naturally formed cenote, snorkel through mangrove-lined waterways and wander paths where spider monkeys and coatis casually make appearances overhead. The resort’s massive 29-slide water park keeps kids entertained for hours, while parents can relax poolside or book a spa treatment between excursions.
What makes Sandos Caracol especially memorable is its immersive connection to the region itself. The resort embraces Mayan culture through traditional performances, eco-activities and jungle experiences that go beyond the
typical beach vacation. Families will also appreciate the thoughtfully designed Eco Family Suites, complete with bunk beds for kids and spacious layouts for everyone to spread out comfortably.
For travelers looking for a more classic beachfront escape, Sandos Playacar delivers postcard-worthy Caribbean relaxation with plenty of elevated touches. Set on a gorgeous stretch of white sand in Playa del Carmen, the all-inclusive resort offers the kind of vacation many travelers dream about: paddleboarding at sunrise, snorkeling in turquoise water and afternoons spent alternating between the pool and beachside cocktails.
Sandos Playacar balances family-friendly fun with a more refined adults-only experience. Families can enjoy the water park, live entertainment and endless activities, while couples may gravitate toward the Select Club adultsonly section featuring upgraded amenities, private beach areas and a quieter atmosphere perfect for reconnecting and unwinding.
Of course, no Riviera Maya getaway is complete without incredible food, fresh guacamole and at least one sunset margarita. Between the two resorts, guests can enjoy everything from international cuisine and seaside dining to lively nightly entertainment and authentic Mexican flavors.
Whether your ideal vacation involves jungle adventures and cenote swims or beach loungers and ocean breezes, Sandos offers two distinct ways to experience the magic of Mexico’s Caribbean coast. And honestly? You may just find yourself wanting to book both.
For more information, visit sandos.com
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
The 10% Target Mindset
Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
FEATURING JEN COHEN
Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.
1 2
MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
STACK THE DECK
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
3
DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE
No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
4
SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP
Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
5
NEVER MISS A MONDAY
The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.
Inspiration for your best local life.
Exclusive giveaways.
Hidden gem alert!
Good news in your neighborhood.
Local content by local creators.
Inside scoop on all things local.
Locally-inspired
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LA GRANDE BOUCHERIE DC, THE OCCIDENTAL, MINIBAR, WILLOWSONG, PINEAPPLE AND PEARLS, THE WHARF
Capital Cravings: Icons Old And New
FIVE ELEVATED DINING DESTINATIONS SHAPING
WASHINGTON’S LUXURY FOOD SCENE
Website: willowsongdc.com
Washington’s waterfront continues evolving, and this newcomer is quickly becoming part of its story. The MidAtlantic-inspired menu celebrates regional ingredients, while the now-famous milk bread with miso-yuzu butter delivers a memorable first bite.
Willowsong minibar
The Occidental
Website: theoccidentaldc.com
A Washington institution with fresh energy, this storied dining room near the White House blends timeless elegance with a polished revival. Historic roots meet modern refinement in a setting built for power lunches and celebratory evenings.
For reservations: minibarbyjoseandres.com
For culinary theater, few experiences feel more exclusive. The intimate tasting counter transforms dinner into art, where every course arrives with an element of surprise and precision.
Website: pineappleandpearls.com
Luxury becomes delightfully playful here. The Michelin-starred experience elevates hospitality through thoughtful details, refined tasting menus and an atmosphere that feels celebratory from the moment guests arrive.
Website: boucherieus.com
Parisian glamour has arrived in the capital. Grand interiors, dramatic design and French classics make this one of Washington’s newest destinations where atmosphere is every bit as important as the meal.
La Grande Boucherie DC
Pineapple and Pearls
