Prepping for an Adventure Summer
I was sitting down to write this month's column with an eye towards talking about all things travel. And then it struck me. I have a ton planned this summer, but I’m not actually going anywhere beyond the lake. And this is the Explore issue anyway, so I’m going to let you in on one of my little outings that’s going to happen right out my front door. This summer, my son and I are going to hike the Tahoe Rim Trail.
Easy, you say. It’s right there, and we pass it every time we drive to Incline. And by thru-hiking standards, you’re right. The TRT is a relatively straightforward outing. Easy access, never far from basic services, well-marked, and logistically direct. But the reality is that it does take some work, which means that while we're still six weeks or so from our start date, our planning is already in full effect. Food, water, equipment, resupplies, permits for Desolation Wilderness, and even small details about what we’ll have in our packs have turned our summer hike into quite the family project. And while we feel pretty good about having our bases covered, we can’t help thinking that this is still going to be quite the adventure. Ten days of slow life, no frills, a lot of sweat, and hopefully a few unknowns.
Sounds good to me, but if you’re sitting there like a lot of our friends, saying no thanks, give me a beach and a cocktail, I get it. Book a trip. But as I’ve said so many times before, we live in a place with some of the greatest outdoor recreation in the world, and personally, I never want to regret not exploring it.
As you flip through this month’s Explore issue, I challenge you to pick one new trail to hike or one new corner of our backyard to discover. The windshield is wide open, summer is here, and the best views are right in front of us.
See you out on the trail, or at the very least, see you next month!
MIKE MCCARTHY, PUBLISHER @CITYLIFESTYLERENO
July 2026
PUBLISHER
Mike McCarthy | mike.mccarthy@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Nora Tarte | nora.tarte@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Liza Belka, Kim Burns, Dan Eckles, Nora Heston Tarte, Angela Rudolph Tayour
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Melody Ricketts
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
inside the issue
Luxury Travel Advisor Kim Burns shares travel inspo
Underrated Beach Vacations
Make beach vacations relaxing again by ditching the crowds and opting for lesser-known locales
Melody Ricketts, Melody Jane
Reno creator Here Goes Gabbi shares the essentials behind her stylish, comfort-first approach to travel
Sleeptourism has us catching zzz's on Nevada's backroads
city scene
1: Peanut visited the Summit's Kendra Scott store to benefit Boxers and Buddies Rescue May 22. May 9 at the Pioneer Center. 3: The Reno Phil played Movies with the Maestro May 16 at the Pioneer Center.
ARTICLE BY DAN ECKLES
To Infinity and All That is Beyond
Northern Nevada education systems encourage space exploration and pilot pathways
George Gillemot spent his life chasing the sky. A driven entrepreneur with a childhood dream of becoming an aviator, he built a career that achieved both—earning success in the cockpit and in business with the same focus and ambition that defined his character. But it was what he chose to do with that success that continues to shape northern Nevada today.
Through the Gillemot Foundation, established to carry on his vision after his death, Gillemot’s legacy lives on in classrooms and campuses across the region— funding aviation and aerospace engineering education through programs at the University of Nevada and the Washoe County School District. The goal is simple but powerful: capture students’ imaginations early with the excitement of flight, then nurture that spark into real skills, real opportunity, and the next generation of aviation and aerospace leaders.
“Flying was a dream of George’s. He put himself through college and got his own pilot’s license,” says Tom Hall, president and chairman of the board of the Gillemot Foundation, and a long-time friend of George. “He loved planes, but he also loved navigation and flight planning—all things that responded to his feeling of self-fulfillment and adventure… George thought flying was a good ally for self-improvement and economic development.”
Gillemot approached University of Nevada leadership in 2005 about funding
an aviation and aerospace curriculum, but ultimately the two sides could not come to terms. Hall says the University was not prepared to accept a master gift at that time, but after Gillemot passed in 2022, Hall reintroduced the idea with UNR officials and an agreement was made. In 2023, the Foundation announced it was contributing a $36 million gift to establish the George W. Gillemot Aerospace Engineering Department.
The University hired Dr. Petros Voulgaris as the founding aerospace program director in 2020, before the Foundation’s gift. However, when the COVID-19 era hit, funding for a program vanished. The generosity of the Gillemot Foundation changed that. The first hurdle was getting a curriculum approved and new faculty members hired.
Mission accomplished! Over the past two years, UNR has put an aerospace curriculum into place for a bachelor’s program, a master’s program, and a doctoral program and has also hired four new full-time aerospace faculty members. Last fall, the first 40 freshmen started the program. Voulgaris says there are about 70 total students in the aerospace program and that enrollment numbers look good for this coming fall.
“There is a lot of interest and there are many opportunities for students thanks to the Gillemot funding. Plus, it has provisions for scholarships,” Voulgaris says. “We’ve got
“One way to attract kids is to make aviation interesting,” - Tom Hall
great faculty that can teach students about wind tunnels and robotics. They will learn about design, build, and flight capability. I’m very excited that we’re in this situation. I’m hoping in a few years we can have a constant stream of 50 or more freshmen enroll in the program annually with maybe 200-250 going for their bachelor’s as well as another 30-40 graduate students.”
While the Gillemot Foundation’s commitment of resources to secondary education was sizeable, it was far from its lone
investment into local aviation education. With the UNR deal done, Hall and his foundation team struck up conversations with WCSD brass. What came from those talks was a plan to add another Signature Academy to the district’s growing support of career and technical education (CTE) – this latest addition being an aviation school at the district’s Academy of Arts, Careers and Technology (AACT). The new Signature pathway also opened to students for the first time last fall.
Still, there was more. The Foundation set aside monies for a drone curriculum in all Washoe County middle schools. The after-school club program, open to all students, will begin when the new school year kicks off in mid-August. Those two programs marked another $1.4 million in Gillemot funds earmarked for aviation education.
“At AACT, one of the best things I love about the aviation program is we know some of these students will become pilots,” says Josh Hartzog, the WCSD’s director of career and technical education. “Their career and life trajectories have been altered by the career offerings at this school. They are choosing this path, and it has been amazing to see.”
“And then with the drone program… the skills they’re building—specifically coding, flight dynamics, systems thinking, and teamwork, those concepts really enforce 21st century learning skills—like our 4C’s of collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking.”
The district has gone further. At JWood Raw Elementary in South Reno, Principal Jonna AuCoin knew she wanted to reinforce aviation at her new school given the school is named after a naval aviator. Using grants, she purchased two flight simulators and now has vertically aligned kindergarten through fifth-grade programming that increases in complexity with student age.
“This is creating something for everybody,” AuCoin says. “It’s neat to see students that may struggle in other areas have success with this… I’m hoping through aviation we can get that hook to get more kids that want to be here, improve attendance, and see a passion for learning and critical thinking. I want to help these kids grow.”
That ‘hook’ is a key component for Hall, too. If there’s a way to get kids more interested and passionate about exploring aviation you can bet the Gillemot Foundation is open to promoting it. Hall says
the Foundation is a cheerleader for the aviation world and George G’s dreams. The Gillemot Foundation is a key sponsor of a Fourth of July drone show to be hosted at Nevada’s Mackay Stadium. It’s also funding an aviation exhibit at The Discovery museum in downtown Reno.
In late May, The Discovery unveiled its new Above and Beyond exhibition, a 5,000-square-foot interactive experience that explores the innovation, imagination, and engineering behind humanity’s pursuit of flight. Designed to inspire visitors of all ages, the exhibition invites museumgoers to step into the role of aerospace innovators—designing and test-flying their own supersonic jets, piloting drones into the eye of a hurricane, and engaging with hands-on challenges that demonstrate the science and technology shaping aviation and aerospace exploration. Through immersive simulations, historic milestones, visionary concepts, and stories of pioneering aviators and engineers, Above and Beyond celebrates the dreamers and problem-solvers who continue to push the boundaries of what is possible.
“One way to attract kids is to make aviation interesting,” Hall says. “We’ve set aside 10,000 free tickets to let school children go to the Fleischman Planetarium. We want programs in schools that are exciting, to get kids interested. Plus, we’re giving teachers a chance to be rewarded, giving six teacher-of-the-year awards, $2,000 each. We’re covering all the bases we can possibly think of.”
“We want kids and families to come to the UNR campus for the July 4th drone show and concert. We hope to get 25,000 people. We keep punching and punching to get kids to explore. These are all great opportunities for kids to do something they haven’t done because they haven’t had exposure to them. If we get all this going, hopefully we’ll all be better off.”
BUCKET LIST TRAVEL
LUXURY TRAVEL ADVISOR KIM BURNS SHARES TRAVEL INSPO
As a Luxury Travel Advisor I have witnessed first-hand the shift from simply seeing the world to truly experiencing it. The modern luxury traveler seeks authentic connection, personalized service, and a level of comfort that turns a vacation into a profound, once-in-a-lifetime journey. This list is a collection of destinations that promise not just opulence, but transformative experiences that will linger in your memory long after you return.
1. THE MALDIVES: OVERWATER VILLA PERFECTION
ARTICLE BY KIM BURNS
Imagine waking to the sound of gentle waves, stepping onto your private deck, and plunging straight into a turquoise lagoon from your overwater villa. The Maldives are the definition of a grand tropical escape, offering resorts
Maldives
like Soneva Jani or Cheval Blanc, which are home to iconic structures, including underwater restaurants and overwater villas. The experience is defined by complete personalization and exclusivity. VIP services include private seaplane or yacht transfers, ensuring a stylish arrival, and the ultimate indulgence of 24/7 dedicated butler service. Guests often enjoy private chef dining on secluded stretches of beach and curated wellness programs. Whether for a romantic honeymoon or a serene escape, the Maldives is the world’s premier destination for relaxation and the ultimate in private, aquatic bliss.
2. AN AFRICAN SAFARI: INDULGENCE IN THE WILD
An African Safari is no longer just a camping trip; it is an immersion into the wild, delivered with impeccable five-star service and accommodation. Experiences in reserves like Sabi Sands in South Africa offer intimate encounters with the "Big Five" from the comfort of a comfortable all-inclusive private lodge. You can even choose to overnight in a spectacular, multi-story openair treehouse, offering a safe yet thrilling experience under the vast African sky. Destinations like Lion Sands are known for blending opulent retreat with breathtaking views overlooking the Sabie River. Every detail is meticulously planned, from expert-led game drives in private vehicles to gourmet dining under the stars and seamless transfers, ensuring that the focus remains entirely on the magic of the wildlife and the majesty of the landscape.
3. THE GALAPAGOS EXPERIENCE: UP-CLOSE WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS
A visit to the Galapagos Islands is centered on conservation and incredible proximity to endemic wildlife found nowhere else on earth. The most sumptuous way to explore the archipelago is via a small, lavish expedition ship
or catamaran, such as the Hermes. These vessels provide superior amenities, including suites with private balconies and onboard jacuzzis, delivering high-end service at sea. Daily guided excursions, led by expert naturalists, allow for up-close views of marine iguanas, giant tortoises, and the famous blue-footed boobies. You will cruise alongside imposing volcanic cliffs and explore pristine waters with opportunities for snorkeling with sea lions, making this journey the perfect blend of adventure, education, and exclusivity.
4. ANTARCTICA EXPEDITION CRUISE: THE GREAT WHITE CONTINENT
For the ultimate adventure, an Antarctica Expedition Cruise offers a voyage to the bottom of the world in unparalleled comfort and style. Modern and comfortable expedition ships, like the Seabourn Pursuit, provide a lavish base for exploring the Antarctic Peninsula and witnessing penguins, seals, and whales. For those with less time or a desire to avoid the Drake Passage, the "Antarctica Bridge" option flies guests directly over the roughest seas to the continent, saving significant travel time. Beyond the ship, the most exclusive experiences include staying in bespoke camps, such as Whichaway or Echo Camp, which offer once-in-a-lifetime adventures like
African Safari
Antarctica Expedition
Bhutan
visiting the South Pole or emperor penguin colonies. This journey is a true testament to the spirit of exploration and one of the world's impressive traveler feats.
5. BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS (BVIS): LUXURY YACHT CHARTER
A posh yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands (BVIs) is the key to unlocking the quintessential Caribbean dream, offering a tailor-made itinerary and complete freedom to explore. However, the pinnacle of BVI luxury is a private island resort, such as Sir Richard Branson's Necker Island or Oil Nut Bay, which often include a fleet of private boats and water toys, effectively combining a yacht charter with an exclusive land base. These private estates sit in turquoise waters, offering an all-inclusive, transformative experience, complete with dedicated staff, private dining, and access to pristine coral reefs. It is the perfect choice for a large family or group seeking ultimate privacy, with the ability to sail, snorkel, and relax in the most secluded and unspoiled setting the Caribbean has to offer.
6. UK CASTLE STAY: LIVING LIKE ROYALTY
For history buffs and those who dream of a fairy-tale escape, a palatial castle stay in the UK is an unmatched experience. These historic properties offer a chance to step back in time while enjoying modern, five-star comforts. Staying in a well-preserved, 15th-century castle provides a truly unique setting where you can take dinner in a grand library or enjoy an exquisite meal in an elegant dining room. The guest experience is designed for mindful indulgence, with sprawling suites featuring massive, comfortable beds and expansive bathrooms with heated floors and freestanding soaking tubs. It is more than just a hotel; it is an immersive cultural encounter that connects you with Britain's history, offering refined service and an unforgettable, regal atmosphere in the picturesque countryside.
7. BHUTAN: A HIMALAYAN CULTURAL RETREAT
A vacation to Bhutan is a soul-stirring journey into one of the world’s most remote Himalayan Kingdoms, which deliberately limits tourism to maintain its culture and pristine environment. The experience is rooted in wellness and spirituality, offered through world-class mountain retreats and lodges like Amankora, Six Senses, and COMO Uma. Elegant itineraries are centered around cultural treasures, including private blessings by maroon-clad monks, meditation sessions, and guided hikes. The most iconic experience is the hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which can be completed with a luxury picnic setup. After a day of exploration, guests can unwind with Himalayan spa rituals, private yoga, and traditional hot stone baths, making it a profoundly authentic and peaceful luxury escape
8. UPSCALE DUDE RANCH VACATION: CUSTOM WESTERN ADVENTURE
A dude ranch vacation, often found in the American West, such as Montana or Colorado, redefines the idea of a high-end, all-inclusive escape by blending rustic charm with refined service. These private, expansive ranches focus on authentic Western experiences, often on thousands of acres. Guests stay in luxe cabins or lodge suites and are treated to gourmet farm-to-table dining and world-class wine pairings. The experience revolves around personalized activities: private horseback riding lessons, guided fly fishing on pristine rivers, and sporting clays. It's a chance to unplug and connect with nature, with the convenience of a dedicated concierge and a range of activities that can be tailored to all ages, all delivered with impeccable, warm, Western hospitality. Favorites include Brush Creek Lodge in WY and The Ranch at Rock Creek in MT.
9. JOURNEY BY RAIL: AN ELEGANT SLOW TRAVEL VOYAGE
For travelers who value the journey as much as the destination, a rail journey offers an elegant slow travel voyage across magnificent landscapes. Trains like the Belmond Britannic Explorer in the UK or the Golden Eagle in Europe and Asia, are a "hotel-on-wheels" experience, featuring well-appointed cabins, five-star service, and a social atmosphere centered in an observation car. Guests can embark on multi-night journeys through regions like Cornwall and the Lake District, enjoying curated off-board excursions and menus crafted by renowned chefs using seasonal, local ingredients. This style of travel is a contemporary tribute to rail holidays, celebrating history, elegance, and an ever-evolving panorama of beauty outside your window.
10. PRIVATE VILLA STAY: THE ULTIMATE SECLUDED ESCAPE
A private villa stay represents the ultimate in seclusion, privacy, and personalized service, whether in a Greek island location like Mykonos, an estate in Costa Rica, or a villa in Tuscany. Unlike a hotel, a villa offers a complete home base with tailored amenities for your entire travel party. The key to this experience is the dedicated staff, which typically includes a personal chef, daily housekeeping, and a 24/7 dedicated concierge who can coordinate every aspect of your stay. The villa itself is usually a stunning piece of architecture, featuring infinity pools, panoramic views, and exclusive access to the best local experiences, such as private yacht cruises or curated wine tours. It is an extraordinary way to experience a destination with no detail left unattended.
Kim Burns, Luxury Travel Curator (530) 981-0079
MAK E BEACH VACATIONS RELAXING AGAIN BY DITCHING THE CROWDS AND OPTING FOR LESSER-KNOWN LOCALES
ARTICLE BY NORA HESTON TARTE
UNDERRATED
BEACH VACATIONS
Summer is in full swing, and the heat has us begging for a beach vacation. We have our go-tos. Whether it’s just across state lines or out of the country, some of the best beaches are the best beaches for a reason. But crowded sand and expensive hotel rooms don’t always coincide with our vacation goals. So how do you get the beach getaway without fighting for space for your umbrella? Choose an alternate route.
Grand Velas Los Cabos
The listed vacations may not be secret, hidden gems, but they tend to have a few shared attributes. They are beachy, they are less popular than their famous neighbors, and they aren’t the first place everyone and their mother is scrambling to go when the weather creeps over 90 degrees.
COCONUT COAST, KAUAI
Say aloha to Hawaii this summer. Undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations year-round, some beaches draw more crowds. Places like Waikiki and Ka’anapali tend to top searches for Hawaiian beach vacations. Kauai, the Garden Isle, is gaining popularity, with Hanalei Bay and Poipu Beach grabbing top billing. In between these two Kauai destinations, the Coconut Coast is centrally located, typically less expensive, and undoubtedly less crowded (although it does still get busy).
Book a room at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort for on-site luaus, lei-making classes, beach-front hammocks, and a central pool and hot tub. It’s the kind of resort you see in Hawaiian brochures where you can sip mai tais steps from the crashing waves or eat breakfast poolside on a lazy mid-week morning.
When you’re not soaking up the sun at the resort, explore the town of Kapa’a. Ride a bike—there are free rentals at the Sheraton— down the Ke Ala Hele Makalae coastal path, kayak the Wailua River, hike to Sleeping Giant, and eat at local food trucks.
When you’re ready to hit the beach, swimmable options include Lydgate Beach Park with its protected lagoon and ideal snorkeling conditions steps from an adorable little tiki bar. A little further away, Anini Beach boasts plenty of sea turtles and has a more local feel (but it’s no longer on the Coconut Coast).
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
San Diego draws crowds (about 32 million people per year) searching for towering palm trees. But just 30 minutes north, and with less than 4 million annual visitors, you’ll find the small town of Carlsbad, a coastal retreat that feels a little more luxury and a little more like home.
We recommend making the Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara your home base largely because you can rent a space that feels more like a home than a hotel with all of the desired amenities. The resort also boasts a driving range, golf course, restaurants, and a pool with food and drink service. Whether you’re traveling with family or as a couple, you can carve out just the kind of vacation you want here.
Off property, Tower 39 Rooftop Lounge is laidback with great views of the water. Or get on the water at Carlsbad Lagoon where jet ski, kayak, and swan boat rentals are all available. If you want to dine off property, consider Campfire, a wood-fired American restaurant that uses coals for cooking.
When you’re ready to get some ocean air, head to Tamarack or South Ponto beaches. You can ride in style by renting the Lucid Motors electric vehicle from the Four Seasons. Chef will even pack you a picnic and some beach chairs.
TOURIST CORRIDOR, LOS CABOS
Cabo San Lucas is a loud and buzzy destination with white sand beaches and plenty of parties. San Jose del Cabo tends to be a bit quieter, with more opulence and artistry.
In between both destinations, located on the Tourist Corridor, Grand Velas feels like it’s worlds away. About 20 minutes from downtown Cabo San Lucas and 35 minutes from San Jose del Cabo International Airport, the slice of beach taken over by Grand Velas and neighboring resorts focuses on all-inclusive packages that mean you never have to leave to have a good time.
North Carlsbad Beach
Grand Velas Los Cabos
Overlooking the Sea of Cortez, experience whales breaching out of the ocean and sting rays flipping and glistening in the sun from your private balcony plunge pool or the resort’s swim-up bar. Grand Velas has two resorts here— one that is family friendly and one that is adult’s only—and you can dine between restaurants or enjoy both pools if you’re 18+.
The luxury here is unmatched at the boutique accommodations with private butlers at your beck and call and high-end cocktails crafted at your request. Sign up for a tequila tasting, take a cooking class, or simply cozy up in an oceanfront cabana.
When you leave the resort, do it with intention. Cabo Real Golf Club offers ocean views from every hole. Nearby Acre trades those views for jungle vibes, and while you can stay on site, you can also pop in to meet the resident animals and grab lunch in the open-air restaurant.
SEABROOK, WASHINGTON
Less relentless sun, more rugged coastline, Seabrook is the Washington Coast’s only true beach town. While the Oregon Coast experiences 17 million overnight visitors each year, Seabrook tracks some tens of thousands annually.
Seabrook is made up of rental properties, not hotels and inns. Instead, people stay in beach houses for anywhere from an overnight to a multi-month lease to enjoy the sleepy but adventurous town’s seclusion.
Getting there includes a 2.5-hour drive from Seattle during which you’ll leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind. Spend your days riding rental bikes around the tree-lined streets, taking surf lessons at the beach, or spending quality family time at the arcade. When you’re ready to unwind, BBQ at your local accommodations, shop the idyllic boutiques, or fly a kite in the coastal winds. It’s also a great home base for day trips into Olympic National Park.
Grand Velas Los Cabos
Seabrook, California
-Cj Johnson Owner Bubbles & Brews Reno Tahoe
WHAT'S IN MY CARRY-ON?
For local creator Here Goes Gabbi, travel style starts with a simple goal: coordinated comfort.
Whether she’s heading out for a long weekend in San Luis Obispo, a staycation in Lake Tahoe, or an international trip abroad, Gabbi approaches packing with a balance of practicality and a whole lot of style. Matching sets, versatile pieces, and functional accessories all make the cut, especially when they can transition seamlessly from airport travel to content creation and late-night dinners.
“I think about color schemes for what I pack, and I try to pack neutral shoes that go with all of them,” she says.
But her approach extends beyond fashion alone.
As a content creator, Gabbi travels with a DJI gimbal, microphone, portable charger, and enough organization to keep everything accessible, without checking a bag whenever possible.
Still, her travel mindset isn’t necessarily about perfection. More so, it’s about staying open to the unexpected.
Gabbi describes her approach as a “here goes nothing” attitude, and it’s led her everywhere from spontaneous temple tours in Bali to trying foods and experiences she never expected to love.
Reno creator Here Goes Gabbi shares the essentials behind her stylish, comfort-first approach to travel
ARTICLE BY LIZA BELKA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELODY RICKETTS
“SOMETIMES, YOU JUST HAVE TO DIVE IN AND SAY, ‘LET’S JUST DO IT.’ YOU’VE GOT ONE LIFE!”
- GABBI HALL
“Sometimes, you just have to dive in and say, ‘Let’s just do it.’ You’ve got one life!”
For this issue, Gabbi shared a few of the essentials that always make it into her carry-on.
POPPY & PEONIES COMMUTER BACKPACK
Gabbi’s go-to travel bag is equal parts functional and polished. The backpack doubles as both her everyday work bag and carry-on, with enough space for content gear, chargers, beauty essentials, and even a denim jacket (or two). “I use my matching fanny pack and wallet like Russian nesting dolls,” she says. “It gives me an easy purse once I’m at the destination.”
THE “BRICK” BATTERY PACK
While some travelers prioritize compact tech, Gabbi prefers power over portability. Her oversized external battery keeps her phone and laptop alive through long days of navigating maps, researching restaurants, and searching for last-minute recommendations. “It’s a brick,” she says, “but it gets me through a multi-day trip.”
BEAUTY ON THE GO
Traveling as a content creator means balancing comfort with staying camera-ready. Gabbi keeps heatless curlers in her bag to preserve hairstyles without packing bulky
hot tools or plug converters abroad. She also travels with lip gloss, tinted sunscreen, and backup press-on nails for quick touch-ups between flights and outings.
THE UNDERESTIMATED ESSENTIALS
Not every travel staple is glamorous. Gabbi swears by keeping a mini first-aid lineup on hand, especially for long walking days and unpredictable travel schedules. Her must-haves include Band-Aids, Advil, Liquid I.V., and Megababe Thigh Rescue for comfortable sightseeing in dresses and warm-weather destinations.
FASHION THAT ACTUALLY TRAVELS WELL
After years of travel, Gabbi says she’s shifted away from packing trendy pieces solely for photos. Instead, she prioritizes timeless staples that can transition easily from daytime exploring to evening plans. One favorite is her Wayre wrap dress, a wrinkle-resistant style with hidden pockets she’s worn throughout Europe for years. “The more I travel, the less I worry about packing what’s trendy for photos and more about what’s classic, functional, and comfortable,” she says.
AT WESTSIDE DENTAL STUDIO, WE BELIEVE THAT THE TINIEST DETAILS TRULY MAKE THE BIGGEST IMPACT WHEN IT COMES TO CREATING AND MAINTAINING STELLAR SMILES. THAT’S WHY IT’S OUR MISSION TO PLACE EACH PATIENT AT THE CENTER OF THEIR ORAL HEALTH BY LOOKING AFTER EVERY DETAIL. THROUGH TAILORED CARE, CONTINUED EDUCATION, AND INDUSTRYLEADING TECHNOLOGY, WE STRIVE TO BUILD LIFELONG, MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS WITH OUR PATIENT FAMILY.
ARTICLE BY NORA HESTON TARTE
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
BY TRAVEL NEVADA
UNDER THE Stars
Sleeptourism has us catching zzz's on Nevada's backroads
Settled outside of Beatty, Nev.—effectively the middle of nowhere— in a quirky cabin set on hundreds of private acres just miles from Death Valley National Park, I sighed deeply around 11 p.m. Through the glass doors there was a night sky unlike any I could see in Reno. The lack of light pollution meant the Milky Way was visible, as were countless stars and plenty of constellations. My son snored lightly in the cot next to the king-sized, wooden-framed bed I shared with my husband. We had spent the day driving across dusty backroads before landing at the Shady Lady Inn, an uncommon overnighter more than just on the outskirts of town.
We spent the evening stargazing. We used our phones to identify planets and bright celestials. Nearby there are viewing areas and international DarkSky Parks, but our accommodations offered views of the same brightly lit sky just outside our door. We were on a weekend-long road trip through Nevada, specifically researching the connection between astrotourism and sleep, a not-so-novel idea that has gained traction more recently suggesting experiencing dark skies away from city light pollution helps to reset sleep schedules—essentially travel for the sake of sleep.
The National Institutes of Health published a neuroscientific study that measured brain activity using near-infrared technology to uncover a link between visual stimulation from dark, lowlight star fields and reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain tied to stress and anxiety.
The International Astronomical Union Office of Astronomy for Development and its Astronomy for Mental Health initiative
suggested stargazing provided relief from anxiety and depressive symptoms within 24 hours at a rate higher than that created by nature retreats alone.
A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology included a metric system for humans and their relationship to the night. The suggestion was that psychological connection to the night sky improves mental health and boosts overall happiness.
Enter Astrotourism, a sector of traditional tourism that encompasses travel to remote, dark-sky destinations. In addition to improving overall mood, there have been several correlations between celestial event viewing and improved sleep quality. It’s linked to a biological response to the environmental cadence of light and dark including natural melatonin production, circadian rhythm realignment, and inherent downshifting into a restful state instead of hovering in fight or flight.
At home we can seek natural darkness, putting down our phones and powering off lights when the night sky turns onyx. While helpful tools, they do not seem to replace the sleep response from aligning yourself with Mother Nature.
Sleeptourism, for that reason, is more effective—and more fun.
Nevada is home to a certified DarkSky International park, Great Basin National Park in Baker (in the southeast corner of the state) and a globally recognized Dark Sky Sanctuary (one of ten worldwide) called Massacre Rim, a few hours north of Reno.
Closer yet, a one-hour drive to Fort Churchill State Historic Park offers open desert skies with minimal light pollution.
“In addition to improving overall mood, there have been several correlations between celestial event viewing and improved sleep quality.”
Tonopah Astro Workshop, Photo By Sydney Martinez
The Tonopah Stargazing Park just shy of four hours south of Reno provides stargazing programs that blend education with night sky exploration. If you find yourself in Beatty, take a short drive north to escape any small town lights in the Rhyolite/Goldwell area (where the Rhyolite Ghost Town and Goldwell Open Air Museum are navigable by day).
Just outside of Nevada, Death Valley National Park is a Gold Tier International Dark Sky Park.
Regardless of where you search out your Milky Way viewing station, the benefits remain the same. A deep connection to nature, alignment with the natural world, and an escape from the modern spaces 99% of Americans call home can at the very least promote a proper night’s sleep and at best cure insomnia and mental health disorders, if even temporarily.
There are undoubtedly additional benefits provided by the rural expanses of Nevada’s less-explored corners and the connection between positive mood and sleep by simply interacting with nature. I am also aware there can be a sense of contentment that comes with quality time. Those pockets of unreliable cell
“Those pockets of unreliable cell service and remote towns with little to do but connect with those around you—or yourself— all add to the advantages.”
service and remote towns with little to do but connect with those around you—or yourself—all add to the advantages.
So, in that silly little bed and breakfast in Beatty, I found calm. Family curled up, heater on, and an intense inky dark sky beyond the sliding glass door. No traffic sounds or streetlights burglarizing my peace, only a chorus of inconsistent squawks from the resident peacocks that perched on our roof, enjoying the night sky on their own as I drifted off in a contented and restful sleep.
Fort Churchill State Historic Park, Photo By Kippy Spilker
Wilson Canyon, Photo By Jamie Kingham
Great Basin National Park,
Photo By Jamie Kingham
Photo: Cayleigh Capaldi in The Sound of Music
Photo by Jeremy Daniel.
Building a Beautiful Bouquet
Building a bouquet of fresh flowers and earthy greens is a great way to add a splash of color and beauty to your home while flexing your creative mind. An unmatched sensory experience, from the floral scents wafting through the air to the silky feeling of the delicate petals, having a bouquet of fresh flowers in your home helps elevate your space.
Shannon Goshen owns Casa Blanca Flower Farm, an urban farm located in southeast Reno. You can find her flowers at the Riverside Farmers Market at Idlewild Park every other Sunday from mid-May through October. She also offers a spring bouquet subscription service.
Here, Shannon shares tips on building a bouquet that will last, from how many stems to include to color palettes, selection, and how to keep your flowers thriving for as long as they can.
HOW MANY STEMS SHOULD BE IN YOUR BOUQUET?
That will, of course, depend on the type of vase or vessel you are using, but I generally start with around five to seven focal blooms. A couple of favorites for the table include larger blooms like limelight hydrangeas, lilacs, roses, and peonies, and the good news is all of them grow beautifully right here in Reno, which means you can enjoy them at their freshest.
Fillers are the backbone of a bouquet. They have a magical way of bringing the whole thing together. Greenery gives a bouquet breathing room, and that airy, just-picked-from-the-garden look.
WHAT DO YOU SUGGEST FOR COLORS?
Combining contrasting colors or using similar hues of flowers are both great options. I think it will come down to the feeling you are going for in your bouquet. I personally love the garden-y collected combinations of jewel tones with softer neutrals.
HOW MANY TYPES OF FLOWERS SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN A SINGLE BOUQUET?
I try to work with about three to five types of flowers for a bouquet. I will select a focal flower that draws the eye, like peonies, and then supporting flowers and fillers, like iris, ranunculus, sweetpeas, and mint, to pull it all together with various forms, colors, and textures.
Expert tips for styling garden-inspired arrangements at home
ARTICLE BY ANGELA RUDOLPH TAYOUR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
MELODY RICKETTS
WHAT TECHNIQUES WILL HELP THE FLOWERS THRIVE AS LONG AS POSSIBLE?
The vase life of a flower is dependent on the type of flower, with some varieties just naturally lasting longer after being cut. A few favorites that naturally have a longer vase life include ranunculus, lisianthus, chrysanthemums, and zinnias.
Cut flower stems about one-half inch at an angle so that the stem has more surface area from which to pull in water and re-cut your stems every couple of days. Change the vase’s water daily or every other day for the longest life and be sure to keep the flowers away from ripening fruit like bananas and apples.
Shannon Goshen is the owner of Casa Blanca Flower Farm in Reno, Nevada. Learn more at CasaBlancaFlowerFarm.com .
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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.
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