Aventura Magazine May 2024

20 WAYS TO TURN HAPPINESS INTO A HABIT

FEATURES

46 TAKING THE TRACK

Williams Racing driver Lia Block puts a new spin on things at this year’s F1 Miami Grand Prix, taking the track in a new women-only race series

By Kristen Desmond LeFevre

52 20 WAYS TO BE HAPPIER

Prioritize your mental health and embrace a sunny outlook with expert tips for turning happiness into a habit

By Paige Bowers

58 THE POWER OF PLANTS

From biophilic design to innovative herb gardens, reap the well-being rewards of houseplants

By Abigail Duffy

64 DESTINATION DRESSING

Where to go and what to wear when you get there

By Katherine Lande

Photography – Ian Jacob Studios Hair/Make up – Colleen Stone Styling – Zlata Kotmina

JUAN PABLO CASTRO

Publisher

Terry Duffy

ADVERTISING

National Sales Director

Deidre Wade, dwade@palmbeachmedia.com

Account Managers

Sandy Silverman, ssilverman@aventuramagazine.com

Sima Kohen, skohen@aventuramagazine.com

Libby Lekach Roffe, lroffe@aventuramagazine.com

Digital Account Manager

Ryan Hollihan, rhollihan@aventuramagazine.com

Advertising Services Coordinator

Elizabeth Hackney

Marketing Manager

Rebecca Desir

PRODUCTION

Production Director

Selene M. Ceballo

Production Manager

Lourdes Linares

Digital Pre-Press Specialist

George Davis

Advertising Design Coordinators

Anaely J. Perez Vargas, Jeffrey Rey

Production Coordinator

Ileana Caban

Digital Marketing Manager

Tyler Sansone

OPERATIONS

Chief Operating Officer

Todd Schmidt

Accounting Specialist

Mary Beth Cook

Accounts Receivable Specialist

Ana Coronel

Distribution Manager

Judy Heflin

Logistics Manager

Omar Morales

Circulation Manager

Marjorie Leiva

Circulation Assistants

Cathy Hart, Britney Stinson

Circulation Promotions Manager

David Supple

IT Manager

Omar Greene

SUBSCRIPTIONS

800-308-7346

In Memoriam Ronald J. Woods (1935-2013)

HOUR MEDIA, LLC

CEO Stefan Wanczyk

President John Balardo

X EDITOR’S PICKS

CYCLING CHIC

With Mother’s Day upon us this month, this mom would love to be gifted a Bluejay electric bike to tool around the neighborhood with the kiddos in tow (page 27).

BLOCKBUSTER

When in-person gym routines became impossible during COVID-19, a crew of Miami fitness buffs started working out alfresco with cinderblocks—and CinderFit was born. I’m loving the company’s minimal approach to workout equipment that does doubleand triple-duty in my home gym (page 13).

WELL & GOOD

What does it mean to live your best life with health, happiness, and purpose? To find out, we look to folks who seem to have it all figured out (or who are at least on their way there) in this Health & Wellness–themed issue of Aventura.

It’s long been said that happiness is a journey, not a destination. To guide you on that journey, turn to page 52 for Paige Bowers’ “Twenty Ways to Be Happier” feature, which is filled with advice and strategies from happiness coaches, therapists, and psychologists to help you find and maintain your happy place.

If you’ve been thinking of becoming a plant parent (or if you’ve already committed to a houseful of plants but need some tips for feeding and flourishing), check out Abigail Duffy’s “The Power of Plants” guide starting on page 58. From biophilic design to innovative herb gardens, you’ll learn about the myriad ways to reap the well-being benefi ts of living with houseplants.

In need of a new doctor? This issue’s Physician Profiles section (beginning on page 70) offers a curated list of hundreds of Miami-Dade’s top docs—chosen by their peers for their experience and trustworthiness—in nearly every medical specialty imaginable.

Finally, this month marks the return of Miami Race Week, with all its activations and parties, culminating in the third installment of the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix at Hard Rock Stadium. This year’s race features the debut of a new series, the Formula 1 Academy, that showcases up-and-coming female drivers, ages 16 to 25. I caught up with Lia Block, one of only two American F1 Academy drivers who’ll take the track in Miami this month. Flip to page 46 to hear what she has to say about the world of racing and a woman’s place behind the wheel.

Here’s to wellness in all its forms and to living your best Magic City life!

Kristen Desmond LeFevre klefevre@aventuramagazine.com

CAPEHART

LONGEVITY THROUGH INNOVATION

your Aventura's concierge functional medicine

At the forefront of modern medicine in Aventura, Dr. Christian González, CEO of Spine and Wellness Centers of America (SWCA), offers an elite approach to healthcare.

SWCA Functional Medicine Membership exemplifies the center's commitment to personalized, evidence-based care. This unique program ensures that each patient's healthcare is as individual as their needs, employing the latest technology to prevent and treat health issues effectively. It is precision medicine, not a one-for-all treatment.

In response to Aventura's demand for advanced healthcare, SWCA, a decade-long Center of Excellence, has launched a data-backed program. This initiative meets local needs and rivals offerings in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, delivering superior value at a lower cost.

Defining the Future of Health

Dr. Gina Corsaletti, Director of Functional Medicine at Aventura's Spine and Wellness Centers, combines neurosurgical fellowships from Jackson Health System University of Miami and Boston Medical Center.

As a distinguished Ross University graduate, her cerebrovascular research in Miami exemplifies her dedication to customized healthcare, focusing on treatments uniquely suited to individual patient needs.

SWCA FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE MEMBERSHIP

“Health is the Ultimate Wealth” - Dr. González

AVENTURIST

THE INSIDE TRACK TO ALL THINGS NEW AND NOW IN MIAMI-DADE

Building BLOCKS

Some weighty ingenuity was born during the COVID-19 lockdown, including CinderFit, a line of workout tools created by a group of Miami-based fitness fiends.

To stay fit while maintaining a safe social distance, Felipe Azenha and his workout buddies moved their sessions to his backyard and began using cinder blocks instead of traditional weights—a practice they dubbed “cinderfit” workouts. After seeing serious results, they decided to take the concept further, hiring industrial designers in Italy to develop a rubber-coated block frame prototype that could be used in place of dumbbells, sandbags, kettlebells, medicine balls, and barbells. The

resulting 15- to 35-pound blocks are strong enough to step on, and users can also clip resistance bands onto them.

“For someone [who doesn’t want] a ton of equipment, this is a solution,” Azenha says. “With a set of CinderFit blocks, you can do hundreds if not thousands of exercises.”

Bundles of CinderFit weights and resistance bands are named for Miami neighborhoods and waterways, like Biscayne, Brickell, and Morningside. Want to give the goods a try before purchasing? The company hosts monthly workouts at Brickell City Centre and has partnered with local gyms and South Beach’s own Muscle Beach. (cinderfit.com) —Christiana Lilly

WOMEN’S HEALTH

THE MOTHER OF INVENTION

While pregnant with her two children, Emilie Fritz Veloso realized there was no onestop-shop for her prenatal care. Instead, she found herself driving from one practitioner to another, then to birthing classes, prenatal yoga, and other appointments.

“You get pregnant and everything sort of changes,” Fritz Veloso says. “You become desperate for information [and] you’re looking for other pregnant people. It’s a very unique time in your life, and generally you’re overwhelmed.”

That’s why Fritz Veloso was inspired to create One Tribe, the “village” everyone says it takes to raise a child. She found passionate, Miami-based experts in all facets of the motherhood journey and, in late 2023, she and her

team opened their doors in Edgewater. At One Tribe, people at all stages of parenthood— from those thinking about conceiving to those ready to bring baby home—have access to physical therapy, movement classes, support groups, massage, CPR training, newborn care, and appointments for lactation, sleep training, parenting coaching, and pelvic floor therapy. Groups are also available for parents who have experienced loss or fertility issues.

“Not only are we building community, but we’re also building a community of wellness practitioners and businesses that all get to

JORDAN BRAUN

work together,” Fritz Veloso says.

Even though One Tribe is still in its infancy, there are already plans to expand. The team is working on creating a virtual “Meet the Expert” series that parents can access no matter where they live. In the next two years, Fritz Veloso hopes to open One Tribe locations in Broward or Palm Beach counties and beyond.

“Everybody has their own unique journey and they all look a little different, but the emotions, fears, anxieties can all be very similar on a continuum,” Fritz Veloso says. “We’re just trying to provide a place where women can come, share their journey, and know that they’re not alone.” (theonetribe.com) —C.L.

DOWN-There Care

Miami resident Daniella Levy used to be plagued with persistent bacterial vaginal infections. “I couldn’t figure out why I was getting these infections,” she says. “Everyone would just keep prescribing me antibiotics.” After meeting her now-husband, she became familiar with his family’s business in dietary supplement manufacturing. Drawing on those industry contacts, Levy tested and developed a prebiotic and probiotic formula that worked for her. Happy V—a line of products for prevention and relief from urinary tract infections, vaginal infections, gut discomfort, and even menopause symptoms—was born. “I finally was able to just feel like myself again,” she says of her own results. “ I had forgotten what that felt like.” (happyv.com) —C.L.

Clockwise from top left: One Tribe’s yoga studio; the Edgewater location’s soothing lobby; a private prenatal massage room; founder Emilie Fritz Veloso.

Daniella Levy, founder of Happy V

FRESH Faced

FIVE FACIALS TO TRY NOW

BY CHRISTIANA LILLY

1

Derived from “sanar,” the Spanish word for healing, Sana Skin Studio’s aesthetic arches and neutral color palette are the perfect gateway to clean facial treatments by experienced aestheticians. When it comes to a stand-out service, co-founder Valentina Hernandez-Botero points to the 70-minute Super Glow Facial. “It gives you the maximum glow with zero downtime,” she says. “It includes my favorite tools such as gua sha, microcurrent, and oxygen.” (sanaskinstudio.com)

2

With The Complete Fix at Carillon Miami, you may reconsider your Botox routine. This 50-minute treatment—the newest at the wellness resort—utilizes Skin Authority’s skin growth factor technology to promote collagen production, healthy circulation, and accelerated cell renewal. That means hydrated, eventoned, and glowing skin without a single needle. While you’re at Carillon Miami, indulge in IV treatments at the Biostation, mind-body hypnotherapy, services at the lash and brow studio, or physical therapy at the HealWell Regenerative Institute. (carillonhotel.com)

4

Every bottle and jar at Wairua Beauty is the result of founder Azul Villa’s travels—from the South of France to Iceland and Portugal—in search of the best skin care the world has to offer. “The quality of products that we use is at another level,” she says. Not a minute goes to waste at Wairua; as masks set, customers are treated to scalp and hand massages. Treatments here are referred to as “rituals,” including the 50-minute Ultra Soothing Ritual: a double cleansing treatment targeting irritation and redness using enzymes, LED lights, and pure oxygen. (wairuabeauty.com)

WHILE FACIALS ARE FOR EVERYONE, SOMETIMES GUYS NEED ONE THAT TARGETS THEIR SPECIFIC NEEDS. THE GENTLEMAN’S FACIAL AT THE JW MARRIOTT MIAMI TURNBERRY RESORT & SPA’S ÂME SPA & WELLNESS COLLECTIVE DOES JUST THAT. THE 50-MINUTE TREATMENT FOCUSES ON THE DAMAGE CAUSED BY DAILY SHAVING, OFFERING DEEP CLEANSING, EXFOLIATION, HOT TOWELS, AND HYDRATION. AS BEARDS AND MUSTACHES ARE ON TREND, THE SPA ALSO OFFERS BRUSHING FOR DEEP CLEANSING AND INCREASED STIMULATION. (AMEWELLNESS.COM)

5 3

Silver Mirror Facial Bar opened its second Miami location this year, offering facials with add-ons like dermaplaning, hydra-dermabrasion, decompression massages, LED therapy, and chemical peels. The star of the show is the 50-minute Anti-Aging Facial. “It rejuvenates by toning facial muscles, stimulating collagen production to diminish fine lines, and enhancing skin absorption of vital nutrients and hydrators,” explains Matt Maroone, CEO and co-founder. (silvermirror.com)

YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT

NUTRITIONIST ELLA DAVAR’S PERSONAL HEALTH STRUGGLES HELP HER MAXIMIZE WELLNESS FOR HER PATIENTS

BY JESS SWANSON

By the time Ella Davar arrived at Canyon Ranch Resort & Spa in Miami Beach in 2013, she was exhausted by the gastrointestinal and skin issues she’d been dealing with for years. “I was bloated all the time,” she says.

Though she had seen doctors and holistic healers, tried fad diets, and shelled out a small fortune for supplements and creams,

nothing helped. On a whim, she scheduled an appointment with the registered dietician at Canyon Ranch, who ran a food sensitivity and intolerance blood panel on Davar. The results revealed that she had an aversion to gluten, dairy, yeast, and alcohol. “At some point, I asked, ‘What am I supposed to be eating?’” Davar recalls about the restrictive

diet she was prescribed. But finally, after years of discomfort, Davar felt relief.

“That one dietician changed my life by changing my relationship with food. I began to see it as medicine,” she says more than 10 years later. “It was no longer about what this one doctor said or the philosophy of an Ayurvedic diet or any of the information out there; it was about all the information I could get from my own body.”

As her health improved, Davar quit her stressful job on Wall Street, became a yoga instructor and health coach, and enrolled in the clinical nutrition master’s program at New York University. Now her story has come full circle: she’s moved to Miami and works as a

GUT RESET 101

registered dietician in the same Miami Beach building (now the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort) she visited years ago—except she’s on the other side of the desk, helping clients who find themselves similarly bloated, breaking out, and uncomfortable.

“I specialize in personalized diets,” Davar explains. “I help people understand how food affects them specifically. But I also incorporate mindfulness practices.”

Mitigating stress is an important component of Davar’s treatment plans. “Not many people understand how a stressful lifestyle depletes us of nutrients,” she says, noting that the more stress a person is under, the more cortisol hormones their body produces. “Cortisol-driven adrenal fatigue is very often associated with malnourishment. So even if you have a healthy diet, it goes out the window when [you’re] stressed out.”

Davar founded the Gut-Brain Method, which incorporates personalized nutrition, food sensitivity panels, anti-aging techniques, stress management, and methods

1. Limit added sugar

“The bad bacteria and yeast in your gut thrives on sugar. Berries and fruits are great. The occasional [piece of] dark chocolate is okay. But I’m talking about white sugar and artificial sugars. The latter might be noncaloric, but they were created in a lab and can lead to microbiome imbalances because our bodies have a hard time metabolizing them.”

2. Incorporate more leafy green vegetables

“Green leafy vegetables are high in fiber, polyphenols, and sulforaphane that the liver needs to detoxify. They also make you feel full longer because they fill up your gut and keep you regular. They’re also low in calories.”

3. Add antioxidant-rich berries

“Berries are high in fiber and low in sugar compared to tropical fruits like bananas. They have a lot more

to optimize the gut microbiome—helping to decrease inflammation in the gut lining and increase the ratio of good bacteria. Rather than treating symptoms like heartburn, acne, bloating, sinus problems, or yeast infections, Davar seeks the root cause, testing clients for enzyme sufficiencies, infections, metabolic imbalances, and inflammation biomarkers. Often times, the culprit is in the gut.

“Our gut controls serotonin production, which is the feel-good hormone,” Davar explains. “Improving your gut microbiome and focusing on diverse nutrient intake can improve overall well-being, energy levels, immune function, and resilience.”

She’s even got a book in the works titled The You-tarian Diet, exploring how people’s lifestyles, ancestries, and genetics require unique nutrition plans. “Personalization is the future of my field: finding the answers within and creating the diet by yourself for yourself. My goal is to empower people to do that.” (nutritionistella.com) «

fiber because of all their seeds, [and] the fiber helps the gut. Berries are also very beneficial for metabolism because their antioxidants support both your heart function and your mitochondrial health.”

4. Eat probiotic-friendly foods

“Yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, fermented beets, and fermented pickles—all of these fermented foods are so full of good bacteria. They are great to improve and support the good bacteria in your gut.”

5. Opt for foods high in omega-3 fatty acids

“Salmon, trout, sardines, and mackerel are all incredible options. They’re high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are anti-inflammatory. They’re also high in protein and healthy fats. They’re satiating and great for those who want to lose weight and lower inflammation while improving gut health.”

WORKOUTS

THE FUTURE OF FITNESS

A NEW TECH TREND PROMISES TO REDUCE WORKOUT TIME WHILE DELIVERING FOUR TIMES THE RESULTS. CAN IT LIVE UP TO THE HYPE?

BY JESSE SCOTT

When it comes to electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) workouts, you’ve probably been wondering what the buzz (literally) is all about. With roots dating back to the 1960s (when a Soviet scientist used electrical stimulation to help train Russian Olympic athletes), the technique really took off in Europe in the early 2000s. Since then, it has begun to pop up stateside, has been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration, and has caught fire in South Florida.

Among local spots spearheading the EMS movement is We202, which has outposts in Aventura (focused on distributing EMS devices) and Pembroke Pines (a studio for EMS workouts). Founder Liz Castillo says EMS workouts are “perfect for those who may not have a ton of time to go to the gym, are suffering pains throughout the body, or live a sedentary lifestyle. It’s essentially a 20-minute workout that you can do twice a week.”

So, how does it work? At We202, candidates must first have a consultation to ensure that they don’t have an advanced heart condition, an implanted pacemaker, or other prohibitive medical conditions. From there, the technological fun begins, including donning a special suit that emits electrical stimulations via 20 distinct pads targeting major muscles.

BY THE NUMBERS

The suit is controlled by a trainer, who guides participants through exercises from lowimpact weight lifting to cardio.

“At a typical gym, you wouldn’t be able to work on all of these muscles at the same time,” says Castillo. “For example, you’d need to work out your biceps and then your triceps, perhaps in separate days. This technology allows your muscles to fire on all cylinders. It’s a true full-body workout.”

Castillo says We202 clients see results in as little as three to four sessions, primarily equating to tightened skin in the knee, thigh, glute, and abdominal areas. Beyond appearance, EMS workouts are beneficial for people dealing with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, people looking to build back muscle mass, and women who are postpartum. As with any new workout that targets underutilized areas, some participants experience soreness, but that’s a good thing, Castillo notes: it just means the muscles are working.

Beyond fitness-specific EMS systems, We202 also specializes in distributing devices to wellness centers and medical practices that are focused on aesthetics and physical therapy. Of EMS, Castillo says, “it truly is a technology that can benefit everyone in many different forms.” (we202.com) «

• 30% to 65% of muscle tissue is voluntarily stimulated by traditional (non-EMS) training at a regular gym.

• 95% of muscle tissue is involuntarily stimulated by EMS fitness systems.

• 100% penetration of EMS electrical pulses into the fibers of 10 major muscle groups during workouts.

LONG LIVE YOU

REHAB, RESET, OR A LITTLE BIT OF BOTH? THE CHOICE IS YOURS AT PRITIKIN LONGEVITY CENTER.

BY KRISTEN DESMOND LEFEVRE

We know exercise and nutrition are a one-two punch that can help prevent, treat, and even reverse heart disease and other medical conditions like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and metabolic syndrome. But decades ago, this kind of lifestyle approach was a revolutionary concept that nutritionist and longevity advocate Nathan Pritikin staked his reputation on when he found Pritikin Longevity Center in Santa Barbara, California, in 1975.

ness practice.

Almost 50 years later (and now located in South Florida on the campus of the Trump National Doral Miami), today’s Pritikin offers personalized one- or two-week wellness retreats. The Longevity program helps those who want to slim down, control their diabetes, or manage other health issues, while the Lifestyle program is geared toward individuals who are looking to reset their daily routine by incorporating healthier eating and cooking plans, a solid exercise regimen, and a mindful-

Whether you’re on the Longevity or Lifestyle path, food is central to the Pritikin philosophy. The daily flavorful menu of plant-forward dishes showcases the benefits of whole foods, eschewing salt and excess oils. Daily cooking classes and demonstrations give guests the skills they’ll need to re-create the same healthy meals in their home kitchens, using ingredients that are readily available at most grocery stores.

With an emphasis on functional fitness, Pritikin’s trainers and exercise physiologists tailor regimens with exercises that enhance strength,

balance, endurance, and flexibility. The stateof-the-art fitness facility is the setting for group classes and personalized training sessions, while the lush outdoor courtyards and lawns provide peaceful backdrops for daily mindfulness activities like yoga and meditation.

For the tech-savvy, Pritikin offers cuttingedge body assessments. The DEXA (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan measures both body composition and bone density. The Fit3D body scanner uses a series of more than 1,000 infrared photos to create a 3D avatar of your body, offering composition information, shape rating, posture analysis, and more. For maximum performance insight, go for the VO2 Max test, which reveals the efficiency of your oxygen consumption as you run on a treadmill. Taken together, these tools provide Pritikin’s fitness experts with the necessary data to build a truly personalized workout plan that will optimize performance and success.

Transformation is the name of the game at this health-centric retreat. You’ll leave armed with new practices and goals for your own well-being, heading back to your “real life” with a renewed commitment to taking care of the only you you’ve got. (pritikin.com) «

At Pritikin Longevity Center, wellness retreats offer healing from the inside out.

TRENDING

GOT MILK?

THESE FIVE NONDAIRY NEWCOMERS ARE SHAKING UP THE ALTERNATIVE MILK MARKET

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

PEA MILK

IN 2022, RESEARCHERS FROM THE INSTITUTE FOR FOOD SAFETY AND HEALTH

SAMPLED 85 PLANTBASED MILK BEVERAGES AND SINGLED OUT

PEA MILK AS HAVING THE MOST HEALTH BENEFITS. IN FACT, PEA AND SOY MILKS WERE THE ONLY ALTERNATIVES THAT HAD HIGHER LEVELS OF CERTAIN ESSENTIAL MINERALS (MAGNESIUM, PHOSPHORUS, ZINC, AND SELENIUM) THAN COW’S MILK. MADE FROM YELLOW PEAS SO THE COLOR IS MORE AKIN TO SOY MILK THAN CELERY JUICE, RIPPLE ’S PEA MILK HAS 8 GRAMS OF PROTEIN PER SERVING AND 50 PERCENT MORE CALCIUM THAN TRADITIONAL 2 PERCENT COW’S MILK. (RIPPLEFOODS.COM)

SESAME MILK

Another sustainable option, sesame crops require little water, are self-pollinating, and naturally resistant to pests. Hope and Sesame’s sesame milk is derived from the nutrient-dense pulp that remains after sesame seeds are pressed for oil. Each serving contains 8 grams of complete protein (meaning it has all nine essential amino acids) and 390 mg of calcium. (hopeandsesame.com)

BAMNUT MILK

Native to West Africa, Bambara groundnuts have adapted to drought conditions and can flourish in poor soil and arid climates. WhatIf Foods partners with farming communities to produce regenerative Bambara groundnut crops for its BamNut Milk Everyday (recommended for cereal and baked goods, among other uses) and the lighter BamNut Milk Airy (perfect for bubble tea, smoothies, and shakes). Both versions are high in fiber and protein and contain nutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamins D and B12. (whatif-foods.com)

PECAN MILK

Steeped in the nostalgia of Grandma’s pecan pie or a scoop of butter pecan ice cream, This Pkn’s pecan milk has a creamy and buttery taste that is often missing in other nut milks.

Plus, pecans have a higher ratio of antioxidants compared to other commercial tree nuts and are flush with vitamins, omega-3s, magnesium, phosphorous, and zinc. (thispkn.com)

BANANA MILK

Mooala well serving. to create pudding.

Mooala’s banana milk is both dairyand nut-free. Made from organic bananas without any added sugar, this milk promises a mild banana flavor (and comforting banana bread aroma) as well as 350 mg of potassium per serving. Pour it over cereal, blend it in a smoothie, or use it to create chia seed pudding. (mooala.com)

WANT TO BECOME A MILK MIXOLOGIST?

ALMOND COW’S POPULAR MILK MAKER ($249)

AUTOMATICALLY BLENDS AND SEPARATES THE PULP FROM ANY COMBINATION OF NUTS, GRAINS, OR SEEDS TO CREATE FRESH PLANT-BASED MILK IN ONLY 60 SECONDS. (ALMONDCOW.CO)

WITH SYLVESTER BEHIND ME, I’M UNSTOPPABLE

Only Sylvester matched my determination to become cancer-free, and they did it with an innovative treatment no one else could offer. I had an expert team in my type of cancer who listened to me and supported me every step of the way. Sylvester gave me exactly what I needed to make my comeback, my way.

Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of UHealth – University of Miami Health System, is South Florida’s only National Cancer Institute (NCI)–designated cancer center.

STYLE

CURATED FINDS, LUXE ACCESSORIES, AND RUNWAY REPORTS

BY KATHERINE LANDE

1. Sneak in a late-night snack without the guilt: truffle fries clutch ($5,995), Judith Leiber, judithleiber. com | 2. Scrapbook your life story in gems: custom Storybook pendant in 14-karat gold, white gold, or rose gold (starts at $5,500), Milliard Diamond Concierge, milliarddiamondconcierge.com | 3. Take the easy route: Premiere Edition blush pink electric bike ($3,295), Bluejay Electric Bikes, bluejaybikes.com | 4. Stand up and fight like a mother: Fight Like a Mother crewneck sweater ($380), Lingua Franca, linguafranca.nyc, 20 percent of proceeds from each purchase are donated to Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America.| 5. Tote your Champagne in sustainable style: Stella McCartney x Veuve Clicquot bucket bag ($1,895), Stella McCartney, stellamccartney.com | 6. Keep calm and play mahjong: luxe shagreen mahjong set ($2,750), Aerin Lauder, aerin.com | 7. Practice self-care the colorful way: La Bonne Brosse x Pucci hairbrush ($190), La Bonne Brosse, labonnebrosse.com

Mum’s the Word

WHAT TO GET THE MOMS WHO HAVE EVERYTHING

STYLE

PALETTE CLEANSER THE LOOK

HIT REFRESH ON YOUR SUMMER WARDROBE WITH MINIMAL FASHION CLASSICS

CREAM OF THE CROP

Atlantis GM handbag ($3,200), Louis Vuitton, multiple locations, us.louisvuitton.com

BASKET WEAVE

Woven raffia Mary Jane flats ($745), Gianvito Rossi, Bal Harbour, gianvitorossi.com

BEND AND SNAP

Multicolor transformable FF leather

Fendi Flip medium handbag ($2,490), Fendi, multiple locations, fendi.com

OFF THE CHAIN

DY Madison Toggle chain necklace with diamond links set in 18-karat gold ($23,400), David Yurman, Aventura, davidyurman.com

MISSING LINK

Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello link earrings ($795), Saint Laurent, multiple locations, ysl.com

X

STYLE NOTES

IN THE FOLD:

Add instant interest with an origami-inspired handbag.

STRAP UP:

Mary Janes are the shoe of choice.

Opt for accents and texture.

MIXED METALS:

LADIES

FIRST

Kick your look up a notch with

Pearl Mary Janes ($1,700), Chanel, multiple locations, chanel.com

WHITE PICKET FENCE

DIOR SPRING/ SUMMER 2024

An updated take on the iconic white shirt is the ultimate go-to.

Ballerina flats ($945), Dolce & Gabbana, Miami, Bal Harbour, dolcegabbana.com

SIDE BY SIDE

Trapezoid laser-cut Ai handbag ($2,690), Akris, Miami, akris.com

HOPS AND DREAMS

Pehr, pehr.com

Bunny Hop classic mobile ($95), A whimsical crib-side addition, this handcrafted, one-of-a-kind mobile and its timeless motif will ensure that newborns and new parents alike will experience many shared hours of nursery delight.

Allison Wolfe Reckson, contributing editor

THE EDIT

Rock-a-Bye Baby

HELP THE PARENTS-TO-BE IN YOUR LIFE

BEAUTY SLEEP

Rest Second Gen ($60), Hatch, hatch.co

As a toddler mom, I have strong opinions about what constitutes an infant essential. The Hatch Rest “dream machine” makes the cut. My 3-year-old has slept with this smart night-light/sound machine since we brought him home from the hospital, and I fully intend to get a second one for baby No. 2. —Mary Murray, executive editor

SNUG AS A BUG

CozyChic cuddle receiving blanket ($68), Barefoot Dreams, barefootdreams.com

SWEET SET

EXPECT BETTER WITH OUR EDITORS’ PICKS FOR BABY-SHOWER GIFTING

Newborn gift set in ivory cotton voile and jersey ($750), Dior, dior.com

Start them out in chic sweetness with this pajama, bib, and beanie set that showcases Dior’s hallmark Cannage motif in subtle gold metallic thread. It’s a splurge, but this heirloomworthy gift is sure to elicit oohs and aahs at any baby shower. —Kristen Desmond LeFevre, editor in chief

BUNDLED UP

Waffle-weave resort robe ($129), Pottery Barn, potterybarn.com

Every baby needs their own blanket. This lightweight, neutral-hued one with scalloped edges is the perfect size to keep tiny humans comfortable.

—Gaylene Salomons, contributing editor

MADE OF MONEY

Dot piggy bank ($250), Tiffany & Co., tiffany.com

It’s never too early to impart the importance of saving. Collecting coins becomes a fashionable affair with this precious, pink-dotted piglet. —Jane E. Enos, contributing editor

HEART TO HEART

Celine Hearts

Make sure new parents are just as cozy and cared for as their bundle of joy. These robes are easy to wash when things get messy and skin-to-skin accessible for all-day lounging. Plus, they can be personalized with a monogram. Abigail Duffy, web editor

mini pillow ($124), Matouk, pioneerlinens.com I love gifting keepsakes, and this adorable mini pillow with a heart motif is fully customizable with names, dates, and messages that will be cherished for generations. And its quality (it’s crafted from 500-thread-count Luca Egyptian cotton) will stand the test of time. —Daphne Nikolopoulos, editorial director

STYLE

1

6

2

5

4

JEWELRY BOX

8

7

9

TIE ONE ON

UP THE FEMININE FACTOR WITH JEWELRY INSPIRED BY BOWS AND RIBBONS

BY MARY MURRAY

3 (neimanmarcus.com)

1. UNDER WRAPS Mason and Books Ribbon Wrap bracelet with diamonds set in 14-karat gold, $12,900. (masonandbooks.com)

2. DARLING DUO Kwiat earrings with diamonds set in 18-karat gold, $2,950. Nordstrom, Aventura, Coral Gables (nordstrom.com)

3. LOOP THE LOOP Picchiotti Bow necklace with diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, $94,300. Neiman Marcus, Bal Harbour (neimanmarcus.com)

4. DOUBLE CROSS Seaman Schepps Ribbon earrings with crystal set in 18-karat gold, $10,750. (seamanschepps.com)

5. BLACK TIE OPTIONAL Jemma Wynne Anniversary Bow ring with diamonds set in 18-karat gold, $5,460. (jemmawynne.com)

6. FOLLOW THE LEADER Akaila Reid Bow Eternity necklace with diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, $56,000. (akailareid.com)

7. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE Graff Tilda’s Bow watch with diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, $195,000. Graff, Bal Harbour (graff.com)

8. SOMETHING BLUE Vintage pin with aquamarine, pearls, and diamonds set in 14-karat white gold, price upon request. Provident Jewelry locations (providentjewelry.com)

9. PRESENT MOMENT Assael Angel Skin ring with diamonds and coral set in 18-karat gold, $34,000. Neiman Marcus, Bal Harbour (neimanmarcus.com)

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JOURNEYS

YOUR PASSPORT TO THE MOST FASCINATING CORNERS OF THE GLOBE

Metro Movers

WITHIN AMERICA’S HIGHEST PROFILE METROPOLISES, SELECT HOTELS SHINE AS DESTINATIONS ALL THEIR OWN, AT ONCE DEFINING AND ENHANCING THEIR HOME CITIES. HERE, WE PRESENT TWO SUCH TRAILBLAZERS IN NEW YORK CITY, ONE IN WASHINGTON, D.C., AND ANOTHER IN BOSTON, EACH WITH A SINGULAR RHYTHM FELT IN THE PULSE OF A BIG CITY.

BY PAUL RUBIO

IRIS AND LIGHT

Baccarat Hotel

The Liberty Hotel

Waldorf Astoria Washington, D.C.

The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad

BACCARAT HOTEL

BACCARAT HOTEL, NEW YORK CITY

All that glitters is glass—Baccarat crystal to be precise— at the French luxury house and glassware manufacturer’s namesake New York property, nestled off Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. From an understated entrance across from the Museum of Modern Art, enter a larger-than-life exhibition of some 15,000 pieces of sparkling crystal beginning at ground level, where an LED light show projects over a tower of 2,000 Harcourt glasses. Check in near the second-floor Grand Salon, a museum-pedigree lounge draped in Baccarat chandeliers, dressed in ornate spheres of red roses, and dotted with translucent cabinetry that showcases the brand’s rarest creations. Even more handblown hanging ornaments can be found in the neighboring barrel-vaulted

WALDORF ASTORIA WASHINGTON, D.C.

bar, where artisan cocktails are served in none other than the finest Baccarat crystal. A brand presence endures across the rest of the 114-key, Gilles & Boissier–designed property, albeit with more subtle nods. Think: faceted sconces and bedside tumblers in sleek yet cozy rooms comprising four-poster beds, white furnishings, and marble bathrooms. The refined accommodations feel more Paris than New York City—a palpable theme throughout a Baccarat Hotel stay. Dress to impress for the fashion-forward scene of the Grand Salon and look forward to unapologetically indulgent experiences like the King Louis XV caviar and tea service. Sip Champagne at Le Jardin (an outdoor terrace landscaped in the vein of France’s royal gardens) and admire original works by printmaker François Houtin. In short, Baccarat is a sensorial fantasy, intricately hewn from crystal and reflecting our desire to embrace French opulence stateside. (baccarathotels.com)

Opened in June 2022, the Waldorf Astoria Washington, D.C. is a splendid reimagination of the circa-1899 national post office building on Pennsylvania Avenue. It’s hard to miss this stunning landmark: the Romanesque Revival building recalls the majesty of an illustrious European castle—clock tower, turrets, and all— and has been meticulously restored to its original architectural grandeur. Inside, a lobby atrium bustles with D.C.’s power set sipping martinis in the posh Peacock Alley as foodies delight in the Spanish-tinged cuisine of The Bazaar by José Andrés. An arched skylight illuminates from 12 stories above, revealing floor after floor of guest rooms framing the atrium. Said rooms channel interior power statements befitting America’s capital

city; they’re kitted out in bold combinations of dark wood and gold-trimmed furnishings, enhanced by royal blue soft goods. No other D.C. property carries a sense of place like the Waldorf does, and a prime location near the Washington Monument and the Smithsonian buildings fosters a cohesive immersion in American history. (hilton.com)

Clockwise from left: Elaborate tea service, a chandelier-rich bar, and alfresco Le Jardin lounge await at Baccarat Hotel. Below: Discover stately rooms inside the grand 125-year-old Romanesque Revival building housing the Waldorf Astoria Washington, D.C.

BACCARAT HOTEL

THE LIBERTY HOTEL, BOSTON

A reinvention of Boston’s notorious Charles Street Jail, the five-star Liberty Hotel keeps one foot in the past and another in the present, resulting in one of the most intriguing adaptive reuse projects in America. Tiers of wrought iron and original brick envelop a 360-degree lobby, spread over five stories and illuminated by chain-link chandeliers and natural light that enters through elaborate ocular windows and triple-story glass panes. Restaurant Clink occupies the vestiges of the prison cells, where diners can head behind the bars for North Atlantic seafood and seasonal New England fare. Meanwhile, cocktail bar Alibi is in the jail’s former “drunk tank” (read: DUI holding pen), replete with its original bluestone floors and brick cell walls, now adorned with black-and-whites of DUI-convicted celebs—the shade of it all! Within Liberty’s 298 rooms and suites, handsome design commingles stately elegance with soft goods that nod to the hotel’s infamous past. In many, floor-to-ceiling windows dole out prime views of the Charles River and postcard-perfect scenes of sailboats cruising into the horizon. (libertyhotel.com)

THE RITZ-CARLTON NEW YORK, NOMAD

Rising 50 stories above one of Manhattan’s most trendsetting neighborhoods, The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad is a new highlight of America’s largest and most vibrant metropolis. The modernist structure impresses inside and out as a design showcase created by some of the biggest names in the industry, including Martin Brudnizki, Rafael Viñoly Architects, Rockwell Group, and Lázaro Rosa-Violán Studio.

The experience strikes at first sight in the lobby, which—cloaked in plant life, flowers, and floral art—sets a zen tone for a true city escape. Flanking this eco-chic space are two personality-driven bars and restaurants by José Andrés, where excellent food rivals colorful, Instagram-worthy interiors. More must-see outlets by the headlining chef can be found on higher levels, including Nubeluz, Manhattan’s

most au courant rooftop bar.

The hotel’s 250 residential-style guest rooms have been skillfully executed to maximize views and space. There are only 11 rooms per floor, all of which face south to command spectacular city vistas from just about everywhere, including the bed and the bathtub. Each room feels sleek and elegant thanks to a love match between metalwork, marble, and dark wood furnishings, enhanced by chandeliers fashioned after flower petals. With rooms so perfect and common spaces so exciting, we wouldn’t blame anyone who came to the Big Apple and never stepped foot off the property—it’s a true destination in itself. (ritzcarlton.com) «

Bottom left and above: Dine at Clink and enjoy Boston vistas from your room at The Liberty Hotel. Right and below: Design excellence abounds at The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad.

THE RITZ-CARLTON NEW YORK, NOMAD

BJÖRN WALLANDER

BJÖRN WALLANDER

JOURNEYS

QUICK TRIPS

Cheers to CHARLESTON IN

THE HOLY CITY, THE FOOD AND DRINK EXPERIENCE IS WORSHIP-WORTHY

BY DAPHNE NIKOLOPOULOS

It’s a well-documented fact that Charleston is a mecca for foodies. The faithful make the pilgrimage often to try the new places and revisit old favorites, and not one of them cares that gluttony is a cardinal sin. Here are four of our top reasons to come to the Holy City to eat, drink, repeat—and atone later.

BOW TO THE BISCUIT

ROOFTOP VIBES

Come for the 360-degree views, stay for the creative cocktails: Citrus Club, The Dewberry hotel’s rooftop lounge, offers the best of both. From the eighth floor, a gorgeous panorama of Charleston’s famous steeples and historic houses unfolds. Against that backdrop, enjoy cocktails like the Smoke Screen (an unlikely combo of Dos Hombres Mezcal, banana liqueur, and Aperol lime that somehow works) and the Tropical Itch with Four Roses Bourbon, overproof rum, dry curaçao, and passion fruit (it comes with a back scratcher!). If you want to pick at something, the loaded fries are legendary, but we recommend heading to The Living Room on the ground floor and grabbing a table outdoors, where the people-watching is as good as the food. (thedewberrycharleston.com)

PAVLOV’S DOGS HAD THE BELL; WE HAVE FOUR WORDS: CALLIE’S HOT LITTLE BISCUIT. NOTHING IS MORE ICONIC THAN THESE FLUFFY, BUTTERY BITES OF PERFECTION. OWNER CARRIE MOREY HAS BUILT A NATIONWIDE BUSINESS (YOU CAN HAVE THESE SOUTHERN BEAUTIES DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR ANYTIME), BUT THE BEST WAY TO ENJOY THEM IS AT THEIR SPIRITUAL HOME ON KING STREET. WHAT TO ORDER? THE SAUSAGE, EGG, AND JALAPEÑO PIMENTO CHEESE BISCUIT IS THE OBVIOUS CHOICE, BUT THE UNAPOLOGETICALLY HIGH-CALORIC CAROLINA GRITS IN A BISCUIT BOWL MIGHT JUST LEAD YOU TO A 12-STEP PROGRAM. (CALLIESBISCUITS.COM)

Among Charleston’s fine dining restaurants, and there are many, Chez Nous stands out for its creative menus and charming aesthetic. In this humble Charleston home reimagined as a restaurant, the dining room is cozy (creaky floors and all), the menu changes daily, and the food is out of this world. Think European comfort food, the type you might discover in a village in the South of France or in Spain’s Basque region. Chef Jill Mathias cooks with the seasons and handwrites the menus, which feature two appetizers, two entrées, and two desserts. This is one dining experience that will stay with you. (cheznouschs.com)

There’s an unspoken rule here, and it is this: you can’t come to Charleston and not try the barbecue. The king of the barbecue scene is undoubtedly John Lewis, whose Lewis Barbecue is an altar to Texas-inflected smoky excess. Pitmaster Lewis is serious about his craft (the dude even welded his own smokers), and it shows in specialties like his USDA Prime brisket and Texas Hot Guts sausage, both of which are institutions in this town. Just ask anyone standing in the out-the-door line, waiting to get their fix. (lewisbarbecue.com)

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HIGH ROAD

THE MAGIC OF M

BMW’S REFRESHED M4 CONVERTIBLE COMES WITH 523 HORSEPOWER AND EVEN MORE DRIVING THRILLS

BY HOWARD WALKER

Here’s a little Trivial Pursuit teaser for you: when did BMW debut that catchy advertising mantra “the Ultimate Driving Machine”? If you said 1974— as in half a century ago—then congrats, you go straight to the top of the class.

Few other advertising slogans have been as effective in defining a brand and creating demand. Toyota’s “oh what a feeling”? Not so much. And when, for some strange reason, BMW decided to ditch the line in 2006 in favor of the touchy-feely “the joy of BMW,” sales bombed.

Fifty years on, BMW is still using “the Ultimate Driving Machine” moniker to great effect. Didn’t you just love that wacky “Talkin’ Like Walken” Super Bowl commercial, with cranky thespian Christopher

Walken touting BMW’s latest all-electric 5 Series? The sign-off line: “There’s only one Christopher Walken. There’s only one Ultimate Driving Machine.”

“The Ultimate Driving Machine” perfectly describes BMW’s newest slingshot drop-top, the 2025 M4 Competition xDrive convertible. Here’s a blunt-instrument, four-seat roadster packing he-man horsepower, all-wheel drive, and the ability to carve curves like a Hot Wheels slot car.

While that oversize, swollen-kidney grille design has been around since 2021, the car has had a nip, tuck, and jab of Botox to keep things fresh. In addition to redesigned headlights, there are new laser-accented taillights and 20-inch M-sport forged alloy wheels at each corner.

The bigger news here is the addition of 20 extra horseys for the M4’s wonderful twin-turbo 3.0-liter straight 6, taking max power from 503 to 523 hp. While that’s a hefty bump, strangely the engine’s torque stays the same at 479 lb-ft, as does the car’s zero-to-60-mph sprinting time of 3.6 seconds.

While “the Ultimate Driving Machine” purists will likely opt for the

coupe version of the M4, for me, the wind-in-yourhair joy of a convertible will always have more appeal. And the M4 still makes an awesome drop-top.

Toggling a switch triggers a choreographed ballet of panels, hinges, and fabric that sees the roof descend in a mere 10 seconds—and at speeds of up to 30 mph. The beauty here is that, with the top raised, the cabin is as hushed as a library at midnight, with not a hint of wind noise.

POWER FILE

PRICE: $96,295 ENGINE: 3.0-LITER

TURBOCHARGED INLINE 6 POWER: 523

HP TORQUE: 479 LB-FT TRANSMISSION:

8-SPEED AUTOMATIC 0-60: 3.6

SECONDS TOP SPEED: 155 MPH LENGTH/

WIDTH: 189/74 INCHES WEIGHT: 4,300

POUNDS WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE IT

PERSONIFIES BMW’S CORE ETHOS.

Settle into the supportive driver’s seat, press the racy-red start button, and hear that big M TwinPower straight 6 exhale through its quartet of tailpipes. The Three Tenors hitting the high notes in “O Sole Mio” never sounded this stirring.

This is one of the world’s great engines: silky smooth, eager to rev, and with more muscle than Chris Hemsworth in Thor. Plus, it’s paired with ZF’s 8-speed automatic, which is almost as quick shifting as the best dual-clutch transmissions on the market.

Drivers will truly notice the BMW M-for-Motorsport DNA when they fire the M4 down a sinewy backroad. There’s a lot of racecar technology here, with adaptive M suspension, an M electronic rear differential, rear-biased xDrive all-wheel drive, and beautifully weighted steering that is as surgically precise as McDreamy’s scalpel.

It all comes together to make this M4 one of the most agile and thrilling sportsters on the market. No, you won’t be able to reach its handling limits on your local freeway on-ramp, but you’ll really enjoy trying.

The downside is a ride that’s pretty firm, even in the cushier Comfort mode. However, plenty of body strengthening has dialed out any shimmy and shake, even over the gnarliest of surfaces.

All this performance, technology, and BMW M Motorsport massaging doesn’t come cheap. A base Competition xDrive convertible will set you back $96,295, or around $115,000 nicely loaded. Its only real rival is Mercedes’ 503-hp AMG C 63 S Cabriolet, which starts at around $92,000. In the end, it’s a small price to pay for taming “the Ultimate Driving Machine.” «

A TOUCH OF CLASS

WE STEP ABOARD THE NADAN, ONE OF THE MOST STYLISH AND ELEGANT SUPERYACHTS AVAILABLE TO CHARTER

BY HOWARD WALKER

“I’m p-paralyzed with happiness,” Daisy Buchanan gushes in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 1925 novel, The Great Gatsby. In this instance, Daisy is referring to the sight of her cousin, Nick Carraway, but her reaction would likely be the same were she to recline on the sundeck of the gorgeous superyacht known as Nadan

Stretching 151 feet from its spear-like, gold-leafed bowsprit to its sweeping fantail stern, Nadan exudes Roaring Twenties style, even though she was built in 2009 by the renowned Burger Boat Company.

If you’re looking to sample a little of The Great Gatsby lifestyle, Nadan is ready and waiting to whisk you off for a Caribbean cruise or a beat-the-heat adventure along the rocky coast of Maine. She’s currently available for charter through

yacht specialist Edmiston from $125,000 a week. What you get in return is a fivestar journey back in time for up to eight guests, who’ll be pampered by Nadan’s crew of seven. Lobsters on the fantail at 6?

Accompanied, no doubt, by crystal flutes of Dom Perignon.

Originally named Sycara IV, she was built for New York auto dealer extraordinaire Ray Catena, mainly to use on the Great Lakes and for genteel cruises along the East Coast. Famed American sailboat designer Bruce King culled inspiration for those sleek lines from the series of classic steamer yachts (all named Corsair) constructed at the turn of the century for billionaire banking tycoon J.P. Morgan. To match the boat’s Art Deco–era exterior, Catena commissioned a mirror-varnished, glossy-white interior brimming with

Lalique glass and Madrone burl wood paneling inlaid with Macassar ebony.

Sold in 2017, her second custodian was German-born Canadian automotive engineer and philanthropist Klaus Bytzek, who kept her at his Bahamian island. Part of a major refit involved adding a tall-windowed wooden wheelhouse on the top deck. But this was not the kind of wheelhouse you use for steering. Bytzek turned it into a man cave of sorts, complete with a velvet sofa, padded armchairs, and a big-screen TV.

POWER FILE

PRICE: FROM $125,000 A WEEK LENGTH:

151 FEET BEAM: 26 FEET ENGINES:

2 X 600-HP CATERPILLAR DIESELS

TOP SPEED: 14 KNOTS RANGE: 2,400

NAUTICAL MILES WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE SHE OOZES GATSBY GLAMOUR.

Nadan sold again in early 2021 to a Bahamas-based entrepreneur and yachtsman who has been offering this blue-hulled beauty for select charters.

As you might surmise, this is not your typical party-hard, multilevel superyacht. Nadan’s

relatively slender hull (the beam is just 26 feet) does mean a few compromises when it comes to interior space. However, there are no sacrifices in way of style and elegance. The main salon features a bar and formal dining room, while a wood-paneled corridor leads to the full-beam owner’s suite, with its king-size bed and marble bathroom. There’s also a VIP stateroom plus a double and a twin-berth cabin. Exterior entertaining areas include a huge aft deck, a top deck with sun pads galore, and a seven-person Jacuzzi.

A pair of 600-horsepower Caterpillar diesels can push the aluminum-hulled yacht to a top speed of 14 knots, though she’s more serene at her 12-knot cruising speed. With 4,300 gallons of fuel in her tanks, she has a range of 2,400 nautical miles at 10 knots. That’s Palm Beach to St. Barths and back.

Of course, if you get to St. Barths and don’t want to return to reality, Nadan’s owner is looking to sell. She’s currently on the market with Burgess for $22.5 million. «

TAKING THE

BY KRISTEN DESMOND LEFEVRE

THIS YEAR’S F1 MIAMI GRAND PRIX PUTS A NEW SPIN ON THINGS WITH THE ADDITION OF THE WOMEN-ONLY F1 ACADEMY SERIES. OUR BETS ARE ON AMERICAN LIA BLOCK OF WILLIAMS RACING, A 17-YEAR-OLD WHO’S SURE TO SHOW THE MAGIC CITY WHAT FAST, FIERCE FEMALES CAN DO BEHIND THE WHEEL.

In the high-octane world of Formula 1, talent is honed from an early age. But the sport has historically attracted and nurtured male drivers, leading to a noticeable absence of women taking the track. Enter the F1 Academy, a breeding ground for the next generation of female racing hopefuls.

The F1 Academy racing series is making its debut on American soil at the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix later this month, and one of its most promising drivers is a 17-year-old American named Lia Block.

Block discovered her passion for racing at a young age. She was just 6 years old when she started competing in karting races in her hometown of Park City, Utah. By the time she turned 11, she was a contender in the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series, which features short-course off-road competitions.

Block comes by her racing chops naturally; her father, Ken Block, was an American professional rally driver for Hoonigan Racing. “I traveled around the world with my dad when he was racing in the World Rally Championship in World Rallycross and Global Rallycross,” Block recalls. “I kind of just got sucked in.”

Still, Block says her father never pressured her to choose racing as a profession. “I tried every sport possible,” she says with a laugh.

But soon enough, she was invited to drive her dad’s famed Hoonicorn—a rebuilt 1965 Ford Mustang V2 fitted with a rally-derived all-wheel drive system and methanol-fed twin-turbo 1,400-horsepower engines. The custom-built car became legendary among racing enthusiasts, so the Hoonigan Racing Team created a YouTube series known as Hoonicorn vs. the World, pitting the soupedup Mustang against some of the world’s fastest vehicles (think: a McLaren Senna, an Audi RS3 dragster, and a Corvette Z06 swapped ’71 Caprice on 28-inch wheels with a basketballsize turbo engine).

The series (which had the look and feel of a real-life video game, matching up cars that were unlikely to ever go head-to-head otherwise) soon spawned a second season, featuring 14-year-old Block behind the wheel of the Hoonicorn.

“That was a big turning point,” she recalls. “I realized, ‘Wait, I really enjoy this. That’s when it hit me that [racing] could be an actual career for me. It’s something that I can make money [doing], but I can also have fun doing it.”

Block says that although she’s noticed the general lack of women on the track over the years, it hasn’t fazed her. “I never thought of any limitations,” she says. She credits her dad with instilling confidence in her. “He was always just showing me the way, giving me opportunities, and opening doors for me. Then he would stand back and let me figure out what I liked and what I didn’t.”

Growing up around the sport gave Block a way to see her future in racing regardless of her gender. “Instead of being like, ‘I can’t do this because I’m a girl,’ I just took the small steps around me, and that slowly made my world of motorsports grow a little bit bigger each time,” she says.

But not every little girl who aspires to race professionally has the kind of support Block enjoyed. That’s why F1 Academy was founded in 2023. The female-only singleseater championship series aims to support the development of women drivers between the ages of 16 and 25. Directed by former Williams Racing test driver Susie Wolff, the program hopes to transition women who are excelling on the karting circuit into successful careers in single-seater racing. Female drivers can take the experience they gain through their participation in F1 Academy to springboard to higher levels of competition like Formula 3 and beyond.

Earlier this year, Williams Racing selected Block as its sponsored F1 Academy driver. Sven Smeets, sporting director for Williams Racing, says he’s been impressed by her progress. “We [selected] Lia because of her performances that she had in rallycross,” he explains. “It was very clear that she had a

lot of talent. We knew that there was some work to do to convert her to single-seated driving, but if you look at the path that Lia has walked for the last four months, she’s made incredible improvements. I think there’s only good things to come.”

For Block, the support of Williams Racing and F1 Academy is everything. “I’ve always competed against guys my entire life,” she says. “But F1 Academy is awesome because it’s this movement to bring more women into the motorsport world. It’s giving us a step into Formula 1 and open-wheel racing. And it lets everyone know that there can be opportunities for everyone to get into racing.”

F1 fans in Miami will get their first in-person look at the F1 Academy series during the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix May 3-5—including practice rounds, qualifying rounds, and two 30-minute races.

“We are delighted to have F1 Academy as part of the 2024 track lineup for the Miami Grand Prix,” says Tyler Epp, president of the Miami Grand Prix. “Not only does it provide more exciting track action for our fans, but the series also marks the importance of diversifying the sport. It’s fantastic to see an incredible lineup of young female racers who I’m sure are inspiring the next generation.”

To prepare to take Miami’s 19-turn track, Block has dedicated herself to training—from hours spent in a series of racing simulators

This page: The Williams Racing team and Lia Block celebrated her first F1 Academy race in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in March.

Opposite page: Block (left) arrives for her first F1 Academy qualifying race in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

that help her get ready for the next racetrack, to days’ worth of targeted workouts that strengthen her body.

“Open-wheel racing requires a lot of physical preparation,” she says, explaining that building up the neck, shoulder, and chest muscles is critical for driver stamina. “When you’re fatigued and you’re just focusing on trying to drive the car, you can’t focus on also trying to go fast,” Block says. “The training that we do in the gym is very important just for our ability to drive the car.”

When she’s not working out, flying to the outskirts of Paris to train in her team’s simulator, or jetting to compete in F1 Academy series races in Saudi Arabia or the Netherlands, Block is still a normal teenager—working on her high school courses online and hanging with family and friends. “My mom says if I don’t get on the honor roll every quarter, then I don’t get to race,” Block says, laughing. “That’s a big motivation for me to get the schoolwork done.”

As for the fact that Block is racing stateside in Miami for the first time (as one of only two American F1 Academy participants), Smeets says the Williams team will work to keep her nerves from getting the best of her so she can make the most of the experience.

“There will be a little bit more pressure for Lia when she competes for the first time in the F1 Academy on American soil [in Miami],” he admits. “But this year is a learning year. For learning, you need to drive, which means you need to finish every race. It’s pressure, but it’s good to see how drivers cope with that kind of pressure.”

Block says that, pressure aside, she’s excited to put on a show in Miami—and to serve as a role model to other women who want to race.

“Being a role model is a bit weird for me,” she says. “My dad was my role model, but there wasn’t really a big female role model in motorsports back then. I think it’s a cool thing that I get to be that for some girls.”

Behind the wheel, though, Block will be all business. “I won’t be thinking about being a role model once I’m in the car. I’ll be thinking, ‘Don’t mess it up. Please don’t put it in the wall. Everybody’s watching.’” «

Block shows her Williams Racing team pride.

By Paige Bowers

Does happiness seem like a feeling you chase after but never quite reach? The good news is this: happiness is always available to us— though it’s often buried beneath layers of thoughts and emotions. Want to learn how to reconnect with a happy state of mind? Local experts offer 20 simple ways to tap into happiness.

FIND YOUR FOCUS

To truly achieve happiness, Kathy Andersen, a Miami-area life coach who holds a certification in positive psychology, says we must define what happiness looks and feels like for us. She recommends making a list of 50 things that you think will make you happy—from keeping your house tidier to spending more time with friends and family to volunteering with a local organization. To stave off feeling overwhelmed, focus on achieving a few items from your list at a time. Andersen also suggests keeping a second list of things that rob you of happiness, so that you can reinforce what to avoid.

GO FOR GRATITUDE

“You can’t be grateful and anxious at the same time,” says Megan Greer, executive director of the Blue Zones Project of Southwest Florida. Dedicate a few minutes each day to making simple journal entries of the things you’re thankful for. If writing isn’t your jam, try using a mala—a string of 108 beads from the Buddhist and Hindu traditions—to name one thing you’re thankful for as your fingers move across each bead. While 108 may seem like a big number, remember to notice and appreciate the small things (the breeze through the trees, the food that nourishes you, the ground beneath your feet) and you’ll find your list expands in proportion to your gratitude.

ENGAGE YOUR SENSES

“I encourage my patients to pay more attention to their five senses,” says Dr. Nicole Jaffe, a Naplesbased therapist with the Center for Psychology. “For example, if you’re walking your dog, home in on one of these senses, like smell or touch, and ask yourself how that focus changes your perception of your environment.” To put this into practice, try using the 5-4-3-2-1 Rule: take a moment to acknowledge five things you see (a pen, a spot on the ceiling, your car keys), four things you can touch (your hair, a pillow, the shoes on your feet), three things you hear (birds chirping, a horn honking, the sound of your breath), two things you can smell (soap, freshly cut grass, a favorite essential oil), and one thing you can taste (gum, coffee, toothpaste). You’ll feel more grounded and prepared to allow happiness to flow.

LEARN SOMETHING NEW

“When you stay curious, you remember just how magical and interesting the world is, and that leads to happiness,” says Robin Rubin, a positive psychology professor and director of the Robin Rubin Center for Happiness and Life Enhancement at Florida Atlantic University. Learn, but don’t forget to fail. According to the 85 Percent Rule (validated by research at the University of Arizona), the sweet spot for motivation, learning, and ensuing happiness is an 85 percent success and 15 percent failure rate. Why? Because if you never fail, you won’t be challenged to continue, and if you fail too frequently, you won’t be motivated to keep learning; fail 15 percent of the time and you will keep coming back for more.

OWN YOUR OM

Thanks to new research into neuroplasticity, we now know that one’s happiness set point (the level of happiness that we naturally feel) can be altered. Meditation thickens the areas of the brain that help us to process uncomfortable situations, as well as shrinks the amygdala, the part of the brain that’s activated under stress. Meditating for as little as two minutes a day leads to a calmer mind, improved cognition, and better self-awareness. Try an in-person meditation class at a local studio, or download guided meditation apps like Headspace and Calm. If you’re a person who likes tech feedback, check out the Hyperice Core, a meditation gadget that uses vibrations to center your attention. Core’s biosensors also give you real-time feedback by measuring your heart rate variability, which is your leading indicator of wellness.

releases mood-boosting hormones that can reduce stress and make you feel happier. If traditional cardio isn’t your thing, don’t despair. Researchers at the University of Derby found that depressed patients who took salsa lessons reported improved moods; a similar Australian study found that people who tangoed for 20 minutes felt happier and had lower levels of stress hormones than people who sat on the sidelines.

you have to plaster a fake smile on your face. But the next time you’re feeling low, try cracking a smile and see what happens. Laughter produces similar results; Rubin suggests watching a funny YouTube video, listening to a humor podcast, or streaming a comedy special the next time you need a mood lift.

HUG IT OUT

A research study published in Journal of Nonverbal Behavfound that people who were consistently hugged over a twoweek period reported being in a better overall mood. Not only does hugging reduce stress levels and unleash feel-good hormones like oxytocin, but it also makes people feel less lonely, which increases their sense of well-being. Based on research into what’s known as deep touch pressure therapy, a product like HugSleep’s Sleep Pod offers cocooning, hug-like comfort that stimulates the brain in the same way a traditional hug does.

H Y ECIREP MOCECIREPYH

MOCPEELSGUHPEELSGUH

LET IT GO

According to the Mayo Clinic, holding onto grudges increases anger and bitterness, making it difficult to enjoy the present moment. Letting go of a grudge is not the same experience as forgiveness—in which you replace a negative judgment of a person or situation with a positive feeling. Instead, moving on from a grudge might conjure indifference instead of positivity; you don’t need to feel warm and fuzzy toward a person who wronged you to avoid letting negative feelings control your life. Take time to consider the perspective of the person who wronged you, and you’ll have a better understanding of what might have contributed to the situation at hand.

BE KIND TO OTHERS

Research shows that acts of kindness can have a significant impact on mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety and increasing feelings of well-being. Consider small acts of kindness that can be done on a regular basis. This might include volunteering in the community, offering a listening ear to a friend in need, or simply taking a few moments to tell the people in your life how much they mean to you.

FIND YOUR PEOPLE

“Deep and fostered relationships instill in us a sense of self-worth,” Greer says. “They show us ‘I am liked because there are people in my life who truly know who I am, people I love who value me and vice versa.’” Maybe it’s a book club, a knitting circle, or a tennis group, but being part of something helps you feel less alone and surrounded by people who share your interests. Companionship doesn’t have to be limited to other humans. Pets can offer similar benefits, according to multiple studies.

CREATE A JUDGMENTFREE ZONE

In the Buddhist tradition, our attachments are the cause of suffering because all things can change—or disappear—in an instant. One way to practice nonattachment is to get rid of the idea that certain people, thoughts, etc. “should” or “must” be a certain way. When you look at your life without that judgment, it is easier to go with the flow. Work to release yourself from the happiness that comes from external things like clothing, cars, or food. You don’t have to sell everything you own and become a monk or a nun to practice non-attachment; you just need to embrace the importance of letting go.

GET OUTSIDE

TAKE A BREAK FROM TECH

When we put down our phones or step away from our computers, we can recoup from the constant ping of emails or negative news.

“The greatest challenge to our happiness is switching off the things that send us to a dark place—things like the news, for example—and instead choosing to put ourselves in places that make us feel happy and healthy,” says Andersen. By spending time with loved ones over dinner or a board game, for example, or riding our bike along the water with a friend, we can forge real connections that lead to happiness. If you struggle with self-control when it comes to scrolling, use a lockbox like this one from Mindsight that allows users to lock their phones away for as little as a minute or as long as 30 days.

The Japanese practice of shinrin yoku, or forest bathing, is the simple act of getting into nature, observing it, and breathing deeply. According to Kaiser Permanente, studies have shown that spending 10 to 20 minutes a day outside doing something like gardening, listening to the sound of waves at the beach, or walking in a park can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and levels of stress hormones.

REPLACE TRIGGERS WITH GLIMMERS

Be aware of your triggers (things that make you feel sad or anxious) like certain social media feeds, that friend who always seems to go on better trips, or a relative who puts you down and avoid them. Replace those with glimmers (things that spark joy) like walking with a friend who makes you laugh, feeling the sun on your shoulders, or curling up with a new book.

SAVOR THE MOMENT

“What we think about, we bring about,” Rubin says. A tactic known as “savoring”—attending, appreciating, and enhancing positive life experiences—can help flip the script from negative to positive. In moments of stress, try to find one thing that’s good about the circumstances you’re in. It could be something small (for example, maybe a favorite song has just come on the radio). Research shows that savoring a positive experience by actively reflecting on thoughts and emotions is effective at enhancing well-being and happiness.

PUT YOUR PURPOSE INTO PRACTICE

A National Institutes of Health–funded study showed that those who expressed having clear goals or a purpose lived up to seven years longer than those who did not. To find your sense of purpose, make a list of your mental, emotional, and physical talents. Then reflect on what you like to do and where you can use those skills. Maybe it’s tutoring students in math or volunteering at the Humane Society. Find places where you can contribute and make a difference.

DON’T DELAY

Fight the urge to wait to seek happiness (think: “I’ll be happier when I lose 10 pounds”). Happiness comes from appreciating what you have in the present moment, Rubin says. Making your happiness conditional on something you don’t have and may not get is counterproductive.

KEEP IT UP

BE REALISTIC

Recognize that you won’t always be happy in every moment—and that’s normal. “Happiness is not a constant thing,” Rubin says. Whether you’ve received bad news, are running late, or somebody hurt your feelings, take a moment to acknowledge that the frustration, fear, or anger you feel is not permanent. Allow yourself to experience it and then shift your focus toward what made you feel this way and what it might take to recover. Then let the moment pass and take care of yourself. But remember: if you are struggling to reframe your thoughts, Andersen says it’s important to find someone to talk to.

Like anything else, happiness is a habit, and research tells us that it takes time and dedication to build any habit you want to see through long-term. Consider the 21/90 Rule, which is based on studies that show that it takes 21 days to make a habit and 90 days to turn that habit into a permanent lifestyle change. Commit to making happiness your goal for 21 days, or start small and adopt any one of these suggested practices. Push past that initial 21-day period to 90 days, and active happiness will become a part of your lifestyle. «

Plants The Power of

Our guide to The myriad benefits of living wiTh houseplants, plus tips and tools for starting a collection of your own

hink of the last time you walked into a greenhouse or hiked through a dense forest. Did you take a deep breath in, luxuriating in how the air felt in your lungs?

Did you notice how a sense of calm washed over you?

You can reap some of the same benefits from houseplants. A recent meta-analysis conducted by researchers at the Department of Landscape Architecture at the National Chin-Yi University of Technology found that houseplants positively impact basic human functions, “particularly those of relaxed physiology and enhanced cognition,” to include a reduction in diastolic blood pressure. This is bolstered by findings (published in a 2015 issue of the Journal of Physiological Anthropology) that plant-related tasks can potentially reduce stress by suppressing the autonomic nervous system. Other studies and reviews have identified additional ways in which living with plants may support physical, mental, and emotional health, such as speedier recovery from illness, decreased fatigue, increased feelings of happiness, and improved attention span.

For Stephanie Amaro, founder of Garden Girl West Palm Beach, consistency is key when it comes to nurturing plants and their impacts on health. Within nine years, Amaro went from being a casual caretaker to looking after more than 5,000 specimens across her two greenhouses and nursery-certified backyard, shipping 150 plants per week out of her home.

“With plants … everything thrives on consistency,” says Amaro. So, too, do the people working with them. “It keeps you active. It keeps you moving, [which is] a health benefit. If your plants are inside or outside, you still have to care for them constantly.”

Houseplants also do wonders for their caretaker’s environment. Plants oxygenate the space around them, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen during photosynthesis. Furthermore, they humidify the air during transpiration (the process of a plant releasing water vapor

from its leaves as a byproduct of absorbing water from soil), which has been shown to alleviate dry skin, soothe sinuses, and reduce allergies. Clustering plants together increases these effects.

As the popularity of plant collecting has grown, their design possibilities have flourished. Gone are the days of confining your photosynthesizing pals to hanging baskets, desktop planters, and windowsill propagations. Talita Gutierrez, founder of São Paulo– and Miami-based Verde Vertical, takes biophilic design to new heights with her vertical gardens—towering mosaic installations of living plants that sprout from the walls. Gutierrez’s gardens are built from recycled materials and contain a fine-tuned hydroponic system (with integrated, automatic irrigation and fertilization) that can be utilized on any surface of any size. According to Gutierrez, they are a low-maintenance, sustainable solution for the indoors, even small areas.

“The use of gardens indoors is recognized scientifically to reduce stress, enhance creativity and clarity of thought, and improve well-being and overall health,” says Gutierrez. “Vertical gardens promote interesting, inspiring, and calming views. Through biophilic design, you can improve the relationship between humans, nature, and the built environment.”

If navigating the wild world of healthy houseplants is daunting, this guide to which ones to start with, how to nurture them, and more will help plant the seeds. It’s a jungle out there. Let’s explore.

PHILODENDRON BRASIL

This heartleaf philodendron variety is a fast grower that is easy to care for. “You really can’t kill it,” Amaro assures. It drapes beautifully and offers color variation thanks to lightgreen variegation on most leaves.

ready to

STEPHANIE AMARO

CARE TIPS Grow

OF GARDEN GIRL WEST PALM BEACH OFFERS

EXPERT TIPS FOR SELECTING THE RIGHT PLANTS TO BEGIN YOUR HOME COLLECTION, AS WELL AS HOW TO CARE FOR THEM. (INSTAGRAM.COM/ GARDENGIRLWPB)

ANTHURIUM

Most plant people have a story of heartbreak that involves an anthurium (or two). Amaro is first to defend them against their finnicky reputation. “Anthuriums are probably my favorite plant,” she says. “They look unreal.” Amaro notes that anthuriums appreciate cooler temperatures and thicker soil that stays moist.

DIEFFENBACHIA

According to Amaro, dieffenbachias, or dumb canes, are a “big bang for your buck,” as they grow large and boast colorful foliage. There are more than a dozen commonly available varieties to choose from for the home.

RHIPSALIS

Also called mistletoe cactus, rhipsalis are similar to cacti but they can tolerate low light.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Peek into any plant parent’s collection and you’re sure to find ZZ plants, snake plants, and spider plants, all renowned for being hardy and supremely easy to care for.

Watering

If the plants are being housed indoors, Amaro advocates for watering once per week. Water lightly but consistently. Remember: underwatering is better than overwatering.

LighTIng

Most houseplants thrive in bright but not direct light. When advising new plant parents, Amaro shies away from using the term “indirect light” because it can mean different things to different people. For example, some may think indirect means low light, which is not ideal for any plant. If natural light is an issue, Amaro says that grow lights are a great option. “Just click the light on, let it hit your plants, and shut it off at night.”

FerTILizer and Pest Treatments

“I fertilize every month,” says Amaro, who opts for Miracle-Gro or fish fertilizer. While she tends to go heavier on the mix, Amaro recommends that beginners follow the instructions on the bottle to avoid going overboard. Two weeks after fertilizing, she’ll do a pest treatment, watering her plants with a dose of horticultural oil (which doubles as a topical leaf shine).

Soil

Amaro’s secret to a balanced soil mix? Cocoa husk. It absorbs moisture and allows for airflow, which prevents root rot (a consequence of overwatering). Try mixing cocoa husk with regular potting soil. Additional options include nutrient-rich additives like worm castings or anti-bacterial ones like horticultural charcoal.

GROWINGUP

IF CRAMPED QUARTERS OR LESS-THAN-IDEAL GROWING CONDITIONS HAVE HELD YOU BACK FROM STARTING THE HOUSEPLANT COLLECTION OF YOUR DREAMS, KEEP YOUR HEAD UP—WAY UP. TALITA GUTIERREZ OF MIAMI'S VERDE VERTICAL CLUES US INTO BIOPHILIC DESIGN AND SHARES INSIGHT INTO HOW TO START A VERTICAL GARDEN OF YOUR OWN. (VERDEVERTICAL.COM)

Aventura: Describe your craft as it relates to residential design.

Gutierrez: I develop solutions that can be applied on any wall, indoors or outdoors, to create living walls, green walls, or vertical gardens. The gardens can be made with living plants [using] automatic irrigation or with preserved natural plants, which eliminates the need for maintenance. They bring the green indoors, with lots of diversity, creating beautiful views and points of interest without compromising a lot of space in the house, almost like artwork.

What is your process for designing vertical gardens in homes?

I start with a walk-through to analyze the space’s conditions, including microclimate, access, available infrastructure (water and electricity sources, as well as drainage), views, architecture, and style. I consult with architects, designers, and clients to understand their needs, inspirations, expectations, and personal taste. Some clients are very involved with the design process, requesting specific plants, flowers, and colors, while others let me create freely. Every design is unique, and I think of each garden as an artwork where my media is nature— alive, in constant transformation, and sensitive to the elements. What spaces are ideal for vertical gardens?

Vertical gardens are adaptable and

customizable, but the ideal situation for a living wall would be a space with great natural light, partial morning sun, and protection from strong direct winds and salty ocean spray. However, we can always add grow lights to areas that don’t get natural sun or enough natural light and use plants that are wind- and salt-tolerant in those scenarios. I would not recommend a garden in a dark place where grow lights cannot be installed, nor in places where irrigation cannot be properly done because living walls need consistent daily watering. What are your favorite plants to work with in a Florida home’s microclimate?

I love the versatility, diversity, and exuberance of philodendrons and ferns. They are the ideal plants to grow hydroponically because they release their roots and can climb on any rough surface. Pothos, peperomias, begonias, pileas, asparagus ferns, and orchids are also excellent.

Do you have any tips for people who would like to create their own vertical garden?

Start with plants that are already developing well in the space and conditions, preferably climbing plants or orchids that don’t have flowers anymore. Create a simple frame with substrate where you can attach the plants and give them consistent irrigation or mist daily.

THE WORD

SMALL BUT MIGHTY, HERBS PACK A DELICIOUS AND NUTRITIOUS PUNCH. HERE ARE FIVE UNIQUE OPTIONS FOR A COUNTERTOP HERB GARDEN.

1

Bay laurel

How to Grow: Leaves from this Mediterranean broadleaf evergreen tree are usually dried and packaged as bay leaves. Grow your own by planting bay laurel in a container with well-draining potting mix for edible plants and place in a spot that receives at least five to six hours of bright light through a window.

Best In: Everything. From chicken soup to tomato sauce, stews, and roasted meats, bay leaves lend depth to whatever you toss them into.

Main Benefits: Bay leaves contain immune-boosting vitamins C and E, as well as carotenoids that can help lower cholesterol.

3

How to Grow: Plant dill seedlings in a deep pot with well-draining, slightly acidic soil for edible plants. Place in a window that receives five to six hours of sunlight per day, or under a grow light for 12 to 14 hours.

Best In: Homemade pickles, salmon dishes, and yogurtbased sauces, like tzatziki

Main Benefits: Dill is a good source of vitamins C and A, as well as manganese.

How to Grow: Take mint cuttings and plant them in a deep pot with soil for edible plants that allows for water retention, but with enough air space to prevent sogginess. Place in a window that receives five to six hours of sunlight per day, or under a grow light for 12 to 14 hours. Mint grows best in milder temperatures, so keep indoor temps between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best In: Tea, watermelon salad, chutneys, ice cream, and, of course, mojitos

Main Benefits: Mint can help relieve indigestion. Derivative menthol can also alleviate cold symptoms, like congestion.

4

2

How to Grow: This parsley relative is essential in French fines herbes and can be grown from seeds in a large, deep container filled with well-draining soil for edible plants, watering regularly. Chervil enjoys cooler temperatures and shadier conditions, so consider keeping it away from harsh sun and maintain indoor temps of between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Some people even recommend growing it in a wine fridge.

Best In: Béarnaise sauce, vinaigrettes, salads, and poultry, egg, and fish dishes

Main Benefits: Chervil contains calcium and potassium, and is also rich in dietary fiber.

5

How to Grow: Lemongrass crops are easy to start from propagations. Place leftover stalks in a glass with 3 inches of water and move to a window that receives five to six hours of sunlight per day. Replenish water if levels drop. Once roots sprout, plant the stalks in welldraining potting mix for edible plants, ensuring that the crown is covered by soil.

Best In: Tea, stir-fries, and marinades

Main Benefits: Lemongrass contains quercetin, a flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can slow cancer cell growth, lower cholesterol, and reduce one’s risk of heart disease.

GET MESSY

Repotting is dirty work, but someone has to do it. Keep your indoor space tidy with Arber’s large, eco-friendly, easy-to-clean, and reusable repotting mat ($30) that packs up in a snap. (growarber.com)

Goods GReen

NOW THAT YOU’RE ARMED WITH ALL THE RIGHT INFO, IT’S TIME TO GET GROWING. PREP YOUR INDOOR GARDEN WITH THESE CHIC ESSENTIALS

CLUED IN

MAY FLOWERS

The Williams-Sonoma mini copper water can ($50) is perfectly proportioned for watering indoor plants, from trailing philodendrons to countertop herbs. Williams-Sonoma, Miami, Coral Gables (williams-sonoma.com)

Take the guesswork out of plant parenting with the moisture-, light-, temperature-, and nutrientdetecting smart plant water meter and health sensor ($77) by Sage & Sill, complete with a Bluetooth-connected app and access to the Cloud Plant Database’s expert care tips. (sageandsill.com)

SUSTAINABLE STYLE

Give little starter plants a biodegradable home with the Kanso Designs coffee bean husk mini planter ($6.50). Measuring 2 inches tall, the planter is made from discarded coffee bean husks and a nontoxic resin that is free of formaldehyde, so it’s better for you, too. (kansodesigns.co)

HIGH RISE

Upgrade your plants to the best seats in the house while clustering them together for maximum humidity with the Story Planter ($495), designed by Afteroom for Design Within Reach Design Within Reach, Miami (dwr.com)

YES, CHEF!

Never run out of herbs mid-recipe again. The Click and Grow Smart Garden 9 ($230) brings the outdoor garden inside with automatic watering, grow lights, and capacity for nine plant pods. Select from more than 50 pre-seeded pods of organic herbs, fruits, salad lettuces, and flowers. (clickandgrow.com)

LIGHT BRIGHT

Sleek and sophisticated, the energy-efficient, pendant-style Aspect LED grow light ($200 for 40 watts) by Soltech delivers full-spectrum 3000K color and 97 CRI (color rendering index) value for lower light areas. (soltech.com)

Dni D ssing

JET-SETTING FOR THE SUMMER? FROM THE MOUNTAINS TO THE SEAS, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED ON THE MOST COVETED ITEMS TO PACK.

BY KATHERINE LANDE

SANNI, GECE

CULT GAIA FENDI

Crystal-embellished acrylic shell clutch ($498), cultgaia.com

Multicolor striped leather Fendi First small handbag ($4,200), fendi.com

STYLE NOTE: MATCH THE STUNNING ARCHITECTURE WITH CLEAN LINES AND A NEUTRAL COLOR PALETTE.

DAVID YURMAN

Pearl Classics cable halo button earrings with diamonds set in 18-karat gold ($2,500), david yurman.com

JOHANNA ORTIZ

Tone Poem leather sandals ($495), johannaortiz.com

JACQUEMUS

Leather sandals ($715), jacquemus.com

JIMMY CHOO

Natural raffia and napa leather sandals with pearls ($775),

STYLE NOTE: STICK WITH THE CLASSICS AND UPDATE YOUR LOOK WITH ULTRA-CHIC UTILITARIAN ACCENTS.

BOTTEGA VENETA

DIOR

PRADA

Prada ReEdition 1978 small Re-Nylon backpack ($2,200), prada.com

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello Medium Niki bag ($3,550), ysl.com

Saddle belt with removable pouch ($1,650), dior.com

Roman Stud flat sandals ($1,150), valentino.com

Leather platform sandals ($945), christian louboutin.com

Twist triangle leathertrimmed earrings ($700), bottegaveneta.com

TORY BURCH

ROGER

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

STYLE NOTE: SHERBET SHADES PROVIDE THE PERFECT ISLAND VIBE FOR BOTH DAY AND NIGHT.

PRADA

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

VIVIER

Belle Vivier sandals in patent leather with metal buckle ($995), rogervivier.com

Branch earrings ($640), oscardelarenta.com

Crochet tote bag ($2,050), prada.com

The Grip oval sunglasses ($525), alexander mcqueen.com

Jessa heel sandals ($328), toryburch.com

GUCCI Small Marmont shoulder bag ($2,550), gucci.com

ASPEN, CODO

MIX

STYLE NOTE: MIX DENIM AND SPORTSWEAR WITH METALLICS FOR A MODERN TAKE ON MOUNTAIN STYLE.

SAINT LAURENT

Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

M137 Amelia sunglasses ($560), ysl.com

JIMMY CHOO

Silver micro glitter fabric mules with crystal embroidery ($2,995), jimmychoo.com

Small Jackie bag in green python with red and white stripes (price upon request), gucci.com GUCCI

DIOR

CHANEL

Métiers d’Art 2024 gradient handbag (price upon request), chanel.com

Dior Chrono sneakers (price upon request), dior.com

GOLDEN GOOSE

Leather clogs with buckle detail ($490), goldengoose.com

Miu Miu

Ralph Laun

GABRIELA HEARST

Calla crochet

fisherman sandals ($1,050), gabriela hearst.com

BOTTEGA VENETA

CAROLINA BUCCI DIOR

Saddle bag with strap ($8,100), dior.com

Forte beads rainbow necklace ($1,250), Marissa Collections, marissacollections.com

Atomic lightweight bicolor mesh-knit pumps ($990), bottegaveneta. com

FENDI

Multicolor FF Fabric

Baguette mini handbag ($2,150), fendi.com

Physician Profiles

On the following pages, you’ll discover our carefully curated list of 147 Top Doctors as chosen by their peers. We profile some of the most trusted and experienced physicians across Miami-Dade County, many of whom give their time and talents to make our community even stronger.

ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY

Michelle Eisenfeld

Memorial Healthcare System

Aventura

305-932-5662 mhs.net

Scott H. Goldberg

South Florida ENT Associates

Aventura

305-935-6000 sfenta.org

Vivian Hernandez-Trujillo

Allergy and Immunology

Care Center of South Florida, LLC

Miami Lakes

786-646-9280 sflallergy.com

Gary I. Kleiner University of Miami Health System

Miami

305-243-8441 doctors.umiamihealth.org

Jaime Landman

Florida Center for Allergy & Asthma Care

Aventura

305-932-3252 physicians.florida-allergy.com

Philip C. Mirmelli

Florida Center for Allergy & Asthma Care

Miami Beach

305-538-8339 physicians.florida-allergy.com

Rolando A. Nunez

Asthma and Allergy Associates of Florida

Aventura

305-932-5662 allergyweb.com

Yoram C. Padeh

Asthma and Allergy Associates of Florida

Aventura

305-932-5662 allergyweb.com

ANESTHESIOLOGY

Brian Cohen

Miami Anesthesia Services

Aventura

954-261-7897 miamianesthesiaservices.com

CARDIAC SURGERY

Roger Carrillo

Steward Cardiothoracic Surgery Associates Palmetto Hialeah 786-475-1985

Lisardo Garcia

Baptist Health South Florida

Miami 786-596-1230 doctors.baptisthealth.net

Joseph Lamelas

University of Miami Health System

Miami

305-689-2784 doctors.umiamihealth.org

Maurice R. Mawad

HCA Florida Heart and Vascular Care - Aventura

Aventura 305-495-9240 hcafloridahealthcare.com

CARDIOLOGY

Isaac E. Akkad

Miami International Cardiology

Miami 305-571-0620

Ravikanth Chiravuri

HCA Florida Miami International Cardiology Aventura 305-250-2580 hcafloridaphysicians.com

Ronald Kanter

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

Miami 305-662-8301 nicklauschildrens.org

Juan Carlos G. Muniz

Nicklaus Children’s Cardiology

Miami

305-662-8301 nicklauschildrens.org

Leonard Pianko

Leonard Pianko, MD

Aventura 305-384-4720 leonardpiankomd.com

COLON AND RECTAL SURGERY

Luanne Force

University of Miami Health System

Aventura 305-243-9110 doctors.umiamihealth.org

Samir R. Shah

Gastro Health

Miami Lakes 305-596-3080 gastrohealth.com

Henry Wodnicki

Mount Sinai Medical Center

Miami Beach 305-614-9027 msmc.com

CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE AND PULMONARY DISEASE

Lawrence Ciment

Mount Sinai Medical Center

Miami Beach 305-224-8553 msmc.com

Seth Gottlieb

Mount Sinai Medical Center

Aventura 305-876-6662 msmc.com

DERMATOLOGY

Cheryl Aber

Lazarus Dermatology

Bay Harbor Islands 305-864-6200 lazarusmd.com

Donna Bilu Martin

Premier Dermatology MD

Aventura 305-521-8971 premierdermatologymd.com

David Drachman

David Drachman, MD

Aventura 305-935-2990 yelp.com

George W. Elgart

University of Miami Health System

Coral Gables 305-243-6704 doctors.umiamihealth.org

ABOUT THE LIST

Medical decisions are some of the most important choices our readers make. In an effort to provide the best medical information available, AVENTURA magazine has enlisted a professional marketing company, Professional Research Services of Troy, Michigan to identify the Top Doctors in the Aventura area. Together we surveyed licensed physicians, asking them to reveal the best medical professionals in our area. These Top Doctors have been scrutinized for the legitimacy of their licenses as well as their status with the Florida Department of Health. While there are outstanding professionals who aren’t listed here, we hope you’ll give these doctors special consideration when choosing a medical professional.

DERMATOLOGY (cont.)

Nicole M. Joy

Miami Dermatology and Laser Institute

Miami 305-279-6060 miamidermlaser.com

Melissa Lazarus Lazarus Dermatology

Bay Harbor Islands 305-864-6200 lazarusmd.com

Mark S. Nestor

Mark Steven Nestor, MD, PhD

Aventura 305-933-6716 marknestormd.com

Marisa Potter Dr. Marisa Potter Dermatology

Aventura 305-363-1956 potterderm.com

Barry I. Resnik

Resnik Skin Institute

Aventura 305-692-8998 hidradenitissuppurativamiamiflorida.com

Paolo Romanelli University of Miami Health System

Coral Gables 305-243-6704 doctors.umiamihealth.org

Joseph F. Seber

Joseph F. Seber MD North Miami Beach 305-947-1466

Joel Wiszniak

Skin and Cancer Associates | Center For Cosmetic Enhancement

Aventura 305-935-9922 skinandcancerassociates.com

EAR, NOSE, AND THROAT

Simon I. Angeli

University of Miami Health System

Coral Gables 305-243-3564 doctors.umiamihealth.org

Agustin J. Arrieta

South Florida ENT Associates

Miami

305-380-6773 sfenta.org

Paul K. Foster

South Florida ENT Associates

Aventura 305-531-7637 sfenta.org

Scott H. Goldberg

South Florida ENT Associates

Aventura 305-935-6000 sfenta.org

Jesse Salmeron

Jesse Salmeron MD

Aventura 305-652-8151 jessesalmeronmd.com

EMERGENCY MEDICINE

Daniella Lamour

Mount Sinai Medical Center

Miami Beach 305-674-2200

ENDOCRINOLOGY, DIABETES, AND METABOLISM

Marcos Chertman

Marcos Chertman M.D.

Miami Beach

305-861-8450 endocrinecontrol.com

Leonard Thaler

Aventura Endocrine Associates

Aventura

305-937-3000 aventuraendocrine.com

Ariel Zisman

Dr. Zisman Endocrinology & Weight Loss

Aventura

305-466-9500 drzisman.com

AT YOUR SERVICE

Dr. Alejandro Badia’s OrthoNOW app is redefining rapid orthopedic care access in Miami and beyond

BY MELISSA PUPPO

Think about the last time you or a loved one had severe pain or a sportsrelated injury. Perhaps your son sprained his ankle during a game. Typically, you endure long waits in a stuffy emergency room or head to an urgent care facility, hoping for a quick diagnosis. Sometimes, a visit to a primary physician is necessary for a referral before accessing a specialist. This process is time-consuming and financially draining, especially considering that most primary care offices lack specialized equipment for accurate assessments. Noticing this challenge in his community, Dr. Alejandro Badia sought to alleviate it by launching the revolutionary app OrthoNow in 2010.

“I started OrthoNow to give people the ability to get to the right specialist very quickly,” says Badia, an internationally renowned hand surgeon and upper extremity orthopedic surgeon at Badia Hand to Shoulder Center in Doral. “OrthoNow allows people to bypass the general urgent cares, which don’t have the expertise.”

His app serves a dual purpose. It functions as a mobile app and telehealth platform, connecting users with OrthoNow clinicians and staff on-demand after an injury to learn if an arm is broken or sprained for example, or might only need some ice.

The second way to leverage OrthoNow is by visiting one of the brick-andmortar locations in South Florida, including Aventura, Doral, and Biscayne. By clicking the “I’m On The Way Now” button, you can alert the center of your visit, ensuring prompt treatment upon arrival. Each OrthoNow facility is outfitted with state-of-the-art digital imaging equipment and staffed by a team of orthopedic physicians and specialized providers, providing access to the latest techniques and treatments in orthopedic care.

The success stories associated with the OrthoNow app are numerous. One notable case is that of Miami Police Officer Christian Ramirez. Following a job-related motorcycle accident, Officer Ramirez spent weeks in the hospital struggling to get a proper diagnosis for his hand. “Originally, I had through go through several workers compensation physicians before being sent to OrthoNow, which is where I was finally able to receive surgery, treatment, and occupational therapy,” says Ramirez. “In less than three months, I was healed and back to full duty as promised by Dr. Badia.”

Badia emphasizes how the app benefits everyone, as injuries and pain are experiences we all share. “Everybody at some point has pain or knows somebody who has back pain or hip pain or twisted their ankle,” says Badia. “The app is good for them, loved ones, fellow gym members—really everybody.”

FAMILY MEDICINE

Gendy Carela-Kirby

Sanitas Medical Center

Miami

844-665-4827 mysanitas.com

Mailene Yanes

Sanitas Medical Center

Miami

844-665-4827 mysanitas.com

FOOT AND ANKLE SURGERY

Alejandro Pino

Miami Institute for Joint Reconstruction

Coral Gables

305-595-1317 alejandropinomd.com

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Isaac Bassan

Mount Sinai Medical CenterMain Campus

Miami Beach

305-532-2999 msmc.com

David Cohen

Mount Sinai Medical CenterMain Campus

Miami Beach

305-674-5925 msmc.com

Howard Estrin

Surgery Center of Aventura

Aventura

305-927-2307 scaventura.com

Lewis R. Felder

Gastro Health

North Miami Beach

305-770-0062 gastrohealth.com

Steven R. Kaplan

Aventura Gastroenterology

Aventura

305-466-1836 hcafloridahealthcare.com

GENERAL SURGERY

Rafael Azuaje

Miami Hernia Center

Aventura

305-397-8236 miamiherniacenter.com

Pete Garcia

Dr. Pete Garcia, MD

Miami

305-856-8445 drpetegarcia.com

Gerardo J. Kahane

HCA Florida Miami-Dade Surgical Specialists - Aventura

Aventura

305-936-2565

hcafloridaphysicians.com

Thomas A. Pane

Unique Aesthetic Center

Miami

305-800-2525

uniqueaestheticcenter.com

GENETICS

Mustafa Tekin University of Miami Health System

Miami

305-243-6006 doctors.umiamihealth.org

GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY

John Paul Diaz

Baptist Health South Florida

Miami 786-596-2000 doctors.baptisthealth.net

Brian Slomovitz

Mount Sinai Medical CenterMain Campus

Miami Beach

305-535-3300 msmc.com

HAND SURGERY

Alessandro Acosta

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

Coral Gables

305-661-1515

nicklauschildrens.org

FIRE FIGHT

Dr. Erin Kobetz heats up research on the risk of cancer among firefighters

BY JESSE SCOTT

Recruited to the University of Miami nearly 20 years ago, Erin Kobetz, Ph.D., MPH has been part as some of the university’s biggest medical milestones as well as some of its most notable, forward-thinking endeavors. “South Florida really is the future,” she says. “The work that we do here, at the University of Miami, will inform the science that our colleagues elsewhere conduct down the line.”

Among Kobetz’s proudest accomplishments: in 2019, she was part of the core team that achieved Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center’s designation with the National Cancer Institute (NCI). As the only NCIdesignated cancer center in South Florida, the practice is among an elite network of academic cancer centers across the country recognized for its scientific leadership and clinical research.

Today, she is the Associate Director of Community Outreach and Engagement for the center and, in 2024, will serve as the organization’s inaugural chief health equity officer.

On her new role, Kobetz says, “It’s about working with diverse community stakeholders to marry our collective knowledge and skills, all to drive forward solutions and improve health outcomes for all South Floridians. Given our gateways to Latin America and the diversity within our community, our lessons learned can have such a broader impact and help foster inter-institutional collaboration around health equity.”

In the same vein of collaboration. in 2015, Dr. Kobetz helped launch the Firefighter Cancer Initiative. Firefighters from Palm Beach County Fire Rescue were seeking an academic partner to substantiate their suspicion that members of their profession were developing and dying from cancer at alarming rates. They found their perfect partner in Kobetz. To-date, the partnership has led to meaningful results statewide.

Among the initiative’s biggest successes, Kobetz’ team has identified how and where carcinogenic exposures are happening and implemented policies and practices to reduced harmful exposure. Kobetz and her team have worked to have large green buckets on every single fire truck in the state with dish soap, wipes, spray bottles, and more to eliminate microscopic, potentially cancer-inducing toxins from harming first responders. They’ve also developed the first-ever firefighter cancer registry, mobile clinics serving the profession, and a nation-wide tumor bank, where firefighters with cancer can share their tumor genetics to inform science moving forward.

On the initiative’s successes, Kobetz says, “We’ve accomplished so much and, perhaps most importantly, this can serve as a model of how scientists and citizen scientists can work together to drive discovery, policy and change.”

HAND SURGERY (cont.)

Raul Cortes

Miami Hand Center

Coconut Grove

305-642-4263 miamihandcenter.com

Seth Detchon Dodds University of Miami Health System

Miami

305-243-3000 doctors.umiamihealth.org

Alexander Krawiecki

South Florida Surgery and Hand Care

Aventura

786-519-4263 southfloridasurgery.com

Roberto Miki

Miki & Alfonso Hand & Upper Extremity Center

Miami

305-308-0210 mikiandalfonsohandandupper extremitycenter.com

HEMATOLOGY AND ONCOLOGY

Jose Lutzky University of Miami Health Systems

Aventura

305-243-5302 doctors.umiamihealth.org

INFECTIOUS DISEASE

Maria Gabriela Ale-Castro VilMed, Inc.

Miami Shores

305-756-6110 vilmedidhealthcare.com

Lorraine M. Dowdy

Midway Specialty Care Center

Miami

305-740-6071 midwaycare.org

Simon Edelstein

InfectionRX

Aventura

305-933-8433 infectionrx.com

Jorge Murillo

Baptist Health South Florida South Miami 305-666-4044

doctors.baptisthealth.net

Paola Solari

Edelstein And Bustamante PA

Miami

305-933-8433 infectionrx.com

INTERNAL MEDICINE

Robert Besen Robert Besen MD Aventura

305-792-4500 drbesen.com

Elizabeth Janet Isalguez Baptist Health South Florida Miami 786-596-6743 doctors.baptisthealth.net

Alberto Armando Mitrani Baptist Health South Florida South Miami

305-476-7771 doctors.baptisthealth.net

MATERNAL AND FETAL MEDICINE

Dibe Martin Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists of South Florida South Miami 305-662-6367 toplinemd.com

Michael John Paidas University of Miami Health System

Doral 305-243-4530 doctors.umiamihealth.org

Felipe Tudela Jackson Health System Miami 786-466-8490 medicalgroup.jacksonhealth.org

NEPHROLOGY

Alberto B. Esquenazi Miami Kidney Group South Miami 305-662-3984 miamikidney.com

NEUROLOGY

Jonathan S. Cross FIRSTChoice Neurology - Aventura Neurologic Associates, LLC Aventura 305-933-5993 fcneurology.net

Paul Damski FIRSTChoice Neurology South Miami 305-465-6378 fcneurology.net

Stuart Isaacson Brain Center Miami 786-565-8735 braincenter.org

Javier E. Lopez

FIRSTChoice NeurologySouth Miami Neurology, LLC

South Miami 305-665-6501 fcneurology.net

NEUROSURGERY

Samuel Kalb Goldsmit

Mount Sinai Emergency Center, Physician Offices, Cancer Center and Diagnostic Center Aventura Aventura 305-487-8196 msmc.com

John Ragheb

Nicklaus Children’s Pediatric Specialists

Miami

305-662-8386 nicklauschildrens.org

OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY

Mark Firestone

Aventura OB/GYN & Associates

Miami 305-933-3030 myaventuraobgyn.com

Clones Lans

Total Women Wellness Center Miami 305-705-4575 totalwomenwellness.com

Paul M. Norris

Miami Beach Gynecology

Miami Beach 786-216-7803 miamigyno.com

Remberto Santos

Aventura OB/GYN Advanced Care, LLC

North Miami 305-931-7960

aventuraobgynadvancedcare.com

OPHTHALMOLOGY

Aarup A. Kubal

Your Eye Specialists

Aventura 786-955-6256 yeseyespecialists.com

Susan Luscombe

Susan M. Luscombe, MD Aventura 305-931-7995

Adiel G. Smith

South Florida Retina Institute Aventura 786-590-1777 southfloridaretina.com

Anil Vedula

Your Eye Specialists

Aventura 786-955-6256 yeseyespecialists.com

ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY

Cesar E. Ceballos OrthoMiami Miami 786-746-8060 orthomiami.com

MARK S. NESTOR MD, PhD

Mark S. Nestor, MD, PhD, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon specializing in aesthetic dermatology and all aspects of clinical dermatology including the cutting-edge noninvasive skin cancer treatment called image-guided radiation therapy. Dr. Nestor is considered a world expert in clinical and cosmetic dermatology, including laser surgery and has been the director of the Center for Cosmetic Enhancement and the Center for Clinical and Cosmetic Research in Aventura for over 30 years. He is also a voluntary professor in the Department of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery and the Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery at the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine. He received his Medical Degree and PhD from University of California (UCLA) and his dermatology residency training from New York University.

His office has over 50 state-of-the-art devices and he conducts research and lectures around the world on the newest devices, fillers and botulinum toxins as well as innovations in clinical dermatology and skin cancer treatment.

EDr. Nestor and his staff differentiate themselves by giving the best care to patients and by utilizing state-of-the-art science, coupled with a team of professionals who deliver compassionate and caring clinical and aesthetic treatments. The core philosophy of Dr. Nestor’s practice is providing exceptional and complete patient care. The patients always come first. Dr. Nestor’s clinical team is set up to make sure that patients get not only the best care but are treated personally and professionally in a way that will allow them to feel that they are truly “cared for.” Additionally, when it comes to aesthetics, it is ideal to have patients look the best they can and look natural while decreasing the outward signs of aging. Artificial is not a good look for anyone.

Dr. Nestor also believes that the most important issue for health and wellness is prevention and early treatment of disease, especially when it comes to skin cancer. This involves careful monitoring and education as to those lifestyle changes that need to be made to prevent not only skin cancer but aging of the skin.

SUSAN FOX DO

Dr. Susan B. Fox, (DO, RPVI, FSVM, DABVLM) has treated veins and vascular disease for over 20 years and is a pioneer in her field. She was one of the first physicians in the U.S. to perform Endovenous laser and ClariVein for venous insufficiency. She has been at the forefront of vein therapy since 2000 and offers cutting-edge, minimally invasive therapies with minimal to no scarring and little downtime. She has also developed her own vein treatment techniques.

Dr. Fox trained at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland and then opened the first vein and vascular medicine center at Case Western Reserve University, where she served as an associate professor. Over the years, she has served as a physician educator for many corporations and lectured nationally in English and Spanish.

She is the owner of Fox Vein and Laser Experts, which has expanded to offer laser treatments, microneedling, skin rejuvenation, injectables, body contouring with Physiq, hair restoration, hair removal, peels, facials, tattoo removal, acne, spot treatments, and so much more.

Fox Vein and Laser Experts has performed various studies with many corporations. Dr. Fox recently completed a study for hair restoration with AnteAGE and had amazing results with hair growth. “Patients were always so happy with their legs they asked what else we could do,” says Dr. Fox. “That is when we started expanding.”

ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY (cont.)

Sophia Deben

International Orthopaedic Specialists

North Miami 786-923-3000 drsophiadeben.com

LEARN MORE ON PAGE 85

Thomas J. Errico

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

Miami 305-662-8366 nicklauschildrens.org

J. Pieter Hommen

OrthoMiami Miami 305-520-5625 hommenorthopedics.com

Jonathan Hyde Miami Spine Specialists

Miami Beach 305-532-0065 miamispine.com

Dominic J. Lewis

Surgery Center of Aventura Aventura 305-937-1999 scaventura.com

Richard F. Pell

OrthoMiami Miami 786-746-8060 orthomiami.com

Richard Rozencwaig Orthopedic Care Center North Miami Beach 305-937-1999 orthopedicare.com

Eric D. Schiffman HCA Florida Aventura Orthopedics

Aventura 305-933-9440 hcafloridaphysicians.com

PAIN MEDICINE

Christian D. Gonzalez

Spine and Wellness Centers of America

Aventura

305-974-5533 spinewellnessamerica.com

Charles F. Mahl

GenLife Regenerative Medicine

Coral Gables 305-332-7234 genliferegenerativemedicine.com

PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY

Jack Bandel

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

Miami 305-933-3035 nicklauschildrens.org

Ronald Kanter

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

Miami 305-662-8301 nicklauschildrens.org

PEDIATRIC DERMATOLOGY

Ana M. Duarte

The Children’s Skin Center

Miami 305-669-6555 childrensskincenter.com

PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY

Gary D. Berkovitz

University of Miami Health System

Miami

305-243-2920 doctors.umiamihealth.org

Alejandro Diaz

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

Miami

305-662-8368 nicklauschildrens.org

PEDIATRIC PULMONOLOGY

Mario Rub

Pediatric Pulmonary & Asthma Specialists

Aventura

305-931-1812 mrubmd.com

CLEARCHOICE DENTAL IMPLANT CENTER

DIANA CUESTA DMD, MS

Diana Cuesta, DMD, MS is an esteemed prosthodontist at ClearChoice Dental Implant Center in Aventura. She earned her undergraduate degree in neurobiology from Harvard University and went on to receive her dental degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine where she graduated with honors in clinical dentistry. She later completed advanced training in prosthodontics and received her specialty certificate at the University of Illinois at Chicago. During her residency, she earned a Master’s Degree in oral sciences for her research on zirconia materials for implant restorations.

Specializing in fixed, full-arch dental restorations, Dr. Cuesta works closely with a multidisciplinary team to deliver patient-centric, best-inclass dental implant solutions and techniques that can help improve the lives of Aventura residents. By bringing together prosthodontics, oral surgery, technicians, and an innovative dental prosthetics lab under one roof, Dr. Cuesta can deliver a more timely, seamless, and comprehensive treatment path for patients suffering from advanced oral disease.

19495 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 850 Aventura, FL 33180

Dr. Cuesta prides herself in treating patients like family. Her priority is to use her training and expertise to improve the comfort and confidence of her patients. She views dentistry as both a science and an art and her interests lie in implant dentistry, full mouth rehabilitation, digital dentistry, and materials science. In addition to being a key member of the team at ClearChoice Dental Implant Center in Aventura, Dr. Cuesta is an active member of the American College of Prosthodontists and the American Dental Association. She is fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian, and in her free time, she enjoys traveling, cooking, dancing, and spending time with family and friends.

Regardless of whether you are ready to schedule your dental implant procedure or are still in the process of researching if dental implants are the best solution for you, Dr. Cuesta and her team in Aventura are here to guide you through the process. Dental implants provide a permanent base for fixed replacement teeth, making them a popular and effective solution for missing or failing teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants fit, feel, and function more like your natural teeth.

LEONARD J. PIANKO MD

Leonard J. Pianko, MD, is the founder and medical director of the Aventura Cardiovascular Center. He is board-certified in cardiology and internal medicine, with expertise in cardiovascular disease, preventive cardiology, and noninvasive treatment options, including echocardiogram and nuclear stress testing.

A native of New York, Dr. Pianko earned his medical degree at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. He completed a residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in cardiology at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson School of Medicine in New Brunswick, New Jersey.

As a private practitioner in South Florida for 35 years, Dr. Pianko combines his expertise as a seasoned cardiologist with the personalized approach of a primary physician. Central to his Aventura practice is an unwavering commitment to compassionate and quality care, supporting patients and their families throughout their medical decision-making process. Loved by his patients, Dr. Pianko’s goal is to improve the quality of their lives by actively listening and customizing health strategies so they can live longer and better. It’s not surprising Dr. Pianko won the Gold Award for Best Doctor in the 2023 Miami-Dade Favorites Contest.

PEDIATRIC SURGERY

Juan E. Sola

University of Miami Health System

Miami 305-243-2247 doctors.umiamihealth.org

PEDIATRICS (GENERAL)

Jennifer Garcia

Miami Transplant Institute

Miami 305-355-5000 jacksonhealth.org

William M. Kendrick

Pediatric Associates - Skylake North Miami Beach 305-940-6016 pediatricassociates.com

Marat Zeltsman

Pediatric Associates - Aventura Aventura 305-682-9877 pediatricassociates.com

PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION

Zach Broyer

Advanced Relief Institute

Aventura 954-458-1199 advancedreliefinstitute.com

Joslyn Gober

University of Miami Health System

Miami

305-243-6605 doctors.umiamihealth.org

Peter Michael

Miami Wellness

Miami Lakes 786-808-8555 miamiwellness.com

PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

Richard Galitz

Aventura Plastic Surgery

Miami 305-515-5166 aventuraplasticsurgery.com

Carlos R. Medina

Medina Plastic Surgery

Miami 786-817-7808 medinaplasticsurgery.com

Narayanan M. Nair

Nair Plastic Surgery

Coral Gables 305-406-9055 nairplasticsurgery.com

Nirmal Nathan

The Nathan Clinic

Miami 305-575-2523 drnathan.com

Chad Perlyn

Nicklaus Children’s Plastic Surgery

Miami 305-278-5951 nicklauschildrens.org

Adam J. Rubinstein

Adam J. Rubinstein, MD, FACS

Aventura 305-340-2191 dr-rubinstein.com

Michael Salzhauer

Dr. Miami

Bay Harbor Islands 305-861-8266 therealdrmiami.com

PODIATRY

Mario Adrian Cala

PerfectFeetCare Podiatry Centers

Hialeah 305-558-7437 perfectfeetcarecenters.com

Tamara Fishman

Andrew P. Amunategui

Andrew P. Amunategui, M.D.

Aventura

305-931-9316 drandrewamunategui.com

Primary Foot Care Center, Inc. North Miami Beach 305-834-4103 primaryfootcare.com

Dr. Zhuravsky is a premier and highly sought-after facial plastic surgery expert, who has now brought his talents from New York/New Jersey to South Florida. He brings with him a high quality, luxury, resultsdriven approach. Patients value Dr. Z for his naturally beautiful results utilizing the most advanced and detail-oriented techniques, as well as patient- centric approach. As the face of faces, Dr. Z prides himself

on delivering customized and comprehensive treatments to make his patients beautiful, without the gimmicks, hype, and fake appearance.

The Z Face Plastic Surgery office and fully certified operating room are located in the heart of Aventura, near the famous Aventura Mall and directly next door to the Mount Sinai emergency department. 786-347-6211 •

WILLIAM A. LEONE MD, FACS

Dr. Leone, one of the nation’s top orthopedic surgeons, founded The Leone Center for Orthopedic Care at Holy Cross Health to provide superb, highly personalized, end-to-end orthopedic care for people with hip and knee conditions.

As Dr. Leone’s more than 15,000 patients can attest, the key to successful joint replacement surgery is choosing the right surgeon—one who listens, has abundant experience and skills, and can choose the best prosthesis and surgical techniques— to achieve optimal, safe, and long-lasting results.

As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Leone uses muscle-sparing hip and knee approaches combined with computer navigation, and kinematic sensors and robotics for knee replacements, along with his own invention, the Pelvic Alignment Level, to help achieve more precise hip implant positioning and leg length during hip replacement surgery.

His unique integration of clinical, surgical, and technological expertise, combined with caring, tailored attention from Dr. Leone and his entire staff, has resulted in restored mobility and an improved quality of life for thousands.

PODIATRY (cont.)

Deeva Frankel

Advanced FootCare

Miami

786-428-3668 advancedfootcareinc.com

Yohandy Fuentes

OrthoMiami Miami

305-296-2828 fuentesdpm.com

Dmitry Sandler S & S Podiatry North Miami Beach 305-909-6756

PSYCHIATRY

Padam Bhatia

Elevate Psychiatry

Doral

305-908-1115 elevatepsychiatry.com

Samuel A. Neuhut

HCA Florida Behavioral Health Specialists - Aventura

Aventura 305-692-3270 hcafloridaphysicians.com

Clara Alvarez Villalba HCA Florida Behavioral Health Specialists - Aventura

Aventura 305-692-3270 hcafloridaphysicians.com

RADIATION ONCOLOGY

Anesa Ahamad GenesisCareAventura Radiation Oncology

Aventura 305-692-1100 genesiscare.com

Martin Keisch Cancer HealthCare Associates

Aventura

305-545-6685 cancerhealthcare.net

REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY / INFERTILITY

George Roshdy Attia University of Miami Health System Miami

305-243-8642 doctors.umiamihealth.org

RHEUMATOLOGY

Luis Arias Urdaneta

Vanguard Rheumatology Partners

Aventura

305-531-6766 vanguardrheumatology.com

Norman B. Gaylis

Arthritis & Rheumatic Disease Specialists

Aventura

305-652-6676 rheum-care.com

Carlos A. Sesin

Vanguard Rheumatology

Aventura

305-531-6766 vanguardrheumatology.com

SPORTS MEDICINE

Cesar E. Ceballos OrthoMiami Miami

786-746-8060 orthomiami.com

J. Pieter Hommen

OrthoMiami

Miami

305-520-5625 hommenorthopedics.com

Charles F. Mahl

GenLife Regenerative Medicine

Coral Gables 844-859-7788

genliferegenerativemedicine.com

THORACIC SURGERY

Naaman Abdullah

Dr. Naaman Abdullah, MD

Miami

305-851-6005

doctors.baptisthealth.net

Dr. Mendelsohn is a pioneer of the five-minute laser cataract surgery and recognized by physicians as a preeminent expert in eye laser surgery. Laser cataract surgery provides far better visual results and safety compared to traditional cataract surgery. Cataract surgery previously was highly invasive, whereby the patient had a shot to the eye and a large incision closed with numerous sutures at the conclusion of the procedure. A laser can now perform 90 percent of the procedure flawlessly in about 30 seconds. This painless procedure takes only five minutes from start to finish, which includes the implantation of an intraocular lens (IOL). There are no shots, no stitches, nor any patches! The patient can resume normal activities the next day, including driving, working, and exercising. The quality of vision is outstanding for driving,

viewing a computer, and reading, including all the focal lengths in between.

For decades, South Florida physicians have called Dr. Mendelsohn “The physician’s physician.” He has had the honor and privilege to serve as the ophthalmologist to several hundred doctors (and their family members) in South Florida. The physicians in the area know which physicians have areas of expertise and utilize this inside knowledge to seek out the best of the best medical and surgical care for themselves and their family members. Additionally, he has physicians, including fellow ophthalmologists, come statewide to seek his care at Eye Surgeons & Consultants, especially for laser cataract surgery and laser glaucoma surgery.

TRANSGENDER HEALTH

Sidhbh Gallagher

Gallagher Plastic Surgery

Miami

305-204-9598 gallagherplasticsurgery.com

UROLOGY

Angelo E. Gousse

Bladder Health & Reconstructive Urology Institute

Aventura

954-362-2720 gousseurology.com

Boris Klopukh North Miami Beach

Surgical Center

Aventura

305-534-4747 northmiamibeachsurgical.com

Mark S. Soloway

Memorial Healthcare System

Aventura

305-682-2580 mhs.net

VASCULAR / INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY

Michael Rogoff

Palm Vascular Centers

Miami Beach 305-763-8734 palmvascular.com

VASCULAR SURGERY

Steven Kang

Miami Vascular Surgery

South Miami 305-668-1660 miamivascularsurgery.com

SOPHIA DEBEN MD

In the bustling landscape of musculoskeletal care, Dr. Sophia Deben stands as a beacon of trust and innovation. A board-certified orthopedic surgeon, her journey began at The George Washington University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science and Medical Doctor degrees. Continuing her quest for excellence, she honed her skills at the University of Missouri in Orthopedic Surgery, followed by a prestigious foot and ankle fellowship at the University of New England.

However, Dr. Sophia Deben’s story extends far beyond accolades and certificates. As a proud U.S. Navy veteran, she served with distinction for seven years, including deployments to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. These experiences, from the front lines to leading the limb salvage team at Naval Medical Center San Diego, shaped her belief in the transformative power of science, technology, and teamwork.

Today, at her intimate boutique practice, Dr. Sophia Deben offers more than medical expertise; she offers genuine connection. With a whole-person approach, she listens intently to her patients, recognizing

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their innate wisdom in understanding their own bodies. Together, they embark on a journey of healing, exploring traditional and nontraditional modalities alike.

Physical therapy, cell-based therapy, surgery—each option is carefully considered, alongside holistic approaches addressing trauma, toxins, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances. As a practitioner of bioidentical hormones and peptide therapy, Dr. Deben empowers her patients to delve into the root causes of their illness while providing exceptional care every step of the way.

In an era where information floods our senses, Dr. Deben champions the awakening of personal wellness. She guides her patients not only as a physician and surgeon but as a woman and a fellow human on the path to transformation.

Welcome to a new era of musculoskeletal care, led by Dr. Sophia Deben—where expertise meets empathy, and healing transcends boundaries.

SIP&SAVOR

BOLD FLAVORS, COOL COCKTAILS, AND LOCAL FAVORITES

OPENINGS

1920S TEMPTRESS

A new-fashioned take on a Roaring Twenties supper club, Delilah Miami is the Magic City’s latest study in glamour and decadence. From an unassuming entrance off Brickell Bay Drive, enter a transportive venue—rich in style, design, and vibe—brought to life over the smooth sounds of a live jazz band.

Building on the success of outposts in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, Delilah Miami seduces in a color palette of light pink, teal, and gold, rife with plush seating, live greenery, marble walls, and sparkling chandeliers. A well-heeled, easy-on-the-eyes crowd huddles around the long main bar, ordering artisan cocktails such as the Coco Grove (a mix of

Botanist Gin, vermouth, and Campari infused with coconut chai) and the Cafecito Martini (the restaurant’s must-try take on the espresso martini revival) while they await their table.

Once seated, a high-low menu concept mixes the likes of chilled seafood towers and Prime beef cuts with comfort cuisine including chicken tenders, crispy calamari, and burgers. The main attraction, however, is the live jazz. Current hits are beautifully recomposed on the center stage, the restaurant’s focal point during both dinner hours and beyond, when Delilah transitions into a late-night lounge that entertains until 3 a.m. (delilahrestaurants. com) –Paul Rubio

CHEF-DRIVEN

Ramsay Redux

THE TITAN OF COOKING SHOWS AND MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANTS, CHEF GORDON RAMSAY ARRIVES ON THE MIAMI SCENE WITH TWO NEW RESTAURANTS

BY PAUL RUBIO

Though Miami has been trending for years as a nexus of the global food scene, attracting celebrity chefs from corners of the world near and far, one big name—arguably the biggest name—was missing from the city’s all-star lineup: Gordon Ramsay. The British chef and television personality (whose restaurants have been awarded 17 Michelin stars over the years and shows have branded him a sharp-tongued, no-nonsense mentor and judge) had touched down in several American cities yet managed to evade our burgeoning metropolis. That is, until now. Making up for lost time, Ramsay recently debuted not one but two restaurants. First came Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen in

Downtown, a 16,000-square-foot-plus, twostory fine dining restaurant inspired by his hit television show and featuring his acclaimed classics like beef Wellington, pan-seared scallops, and sticky toffee pudding. Next arrived Lucky Cat, a dimly lit, dinner-only concept serving sublime pan-Asian cuisine and designed in the vein of Tokyo’s 1930s kissas (jazz clubs) and drinking dens of the Far East. This first U.S. outpost of Lucky Cat (located in Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood) follows in the footsteps of its two lauded locations across the pond, in London and Manchester, with a few notable Miami exclusives.

During Lucky Cat’s debut weekend, Aventura spent ample time with chef Ramsay,

delighting in a private, 16-course lunch prepared by the superstar and then attending his celeb-studded grand opening party.

During the VIP lunch, several things stood out, starting with Ramsay’s demeanor, which surprisingly skewed teddy bear instead of raging bull. (The kitchen and waitstaff simply adored him—as did we!) He also took tremendous pride and exhibited palpable excitement in delivering every dish to our table, noting the origins of each ingredient, cooking techniques applied, and flavor combinations chosen to yield maximum taste.

Take the barbecued sea bream, for example. Ramsay explains that an unlikely key to its greatness is “extracting the water in the

Clockwise from inset: Chef Gordon Ramsay’s famed beef Wellington is available at the Miami location of Hell’s Kitchen; Ramsay strikes a pose at the first U.S. outpost of Lucky Cat; Lucky Cat’s Miami location boasts high-design interiors.

KRIS TAMBURELLO

drying process [in the dry-age cellar] for seven to 10 days.” This leads to “maturity in the flavor and the density of the flesh being so much greater, helping the fish crisp even better” on the robata grill and complementing the spiced black vinegar and shiso oil. When it comes to the confit duck leg bao, he details the quest for textural and taste perfection that required three years of training in France, which he now applies to his master process. That entails “brining [the duck leg], marinating it, coating it in bonito flakes,” slow cooking it, and then at the end of the confit, “shallow frying it very crisp and finishing it off in the salamander (broiler)” before serving it in a fresh bao bun alongside spicy hoisin and pickled apple cucumbers.

Across 16 courses—which began with

hyper-fresh nigiri, included the Miami exclusive “baked clay pot glass noodles” with lobster, five-spice pork belly, and jalapeño, and ended with a finale of “lucky lollies,” frozen treats in matcha raspberry and chocolate miso flavors—nothing fell short of fabulous. Sampling similar dishes and more at the grand opening party the following night, extreme quality and Ramsay’s prowess again reigned

supreme. Beyond the elevated cuisine, Lucky Cat’s retro-chic Asian inspiration fosters an idyllic ambience for a sexy, global-inspired night on the town. Enhanced by a solid cocktail program, an eight-seat chef’s table, and top-notch service, the long-awaited Lucky Cat constitutes a bona fide next-level restaurant by the ultimate next-level chef. (gordonramsayrestaurants.com/en/us) «

TO TRY BURGER BLISS 2

Grilling season is here, and so is a foodie-favorite holiday to encourage firing up that barbecue: National Burger Month . Looking to impress at your next cookout? Seek some inspiration by sampling the winners of the 2024 Burger Bash, a headlining event of the South Beach Wine & Food Festival.

COWY BURGER

Based on the results from a panel of chef-led judges, pop-up company Cowy Burgers received The Very Best Burger Award for its namesake creation, an angus smash patty, topped with American cheese, bacon jam, grilled onions, and a secret mayo and herb sauce. Check online for the pop-up’s appearances, which have previously included weekly stints at The Corner in Downtown, J. Wakefield Brewing in Wynwood, and Prison Pals Doral Taproom. (cowyburger.com)

JALAPEÑO DELIGHT BURGER

For the third year in a row, burger-andkebab joint Pincho, which now boasts eight South Florida locations, took home the coveted title of the Heinz People’s Choice Award, chosen by festivalgoers. This time, Pincho scored top marks for its Jalapeño Delight, a buttery brioche bun and 100 percent pure beef patty dressed to the nines in everything jalapeño: jalapeño jack cheese, jalapeño bacon jam, jalapeño bacon, and cilantro jalapeño aioli. (pincho.com) —P.R.

DAY OR NIGHT

MEZCAL Magic

Launched in Miami earlier this year, premium artisanal mezcal Bendito Mito marks the first mezcals available in the United States crafted by a female “Maestra Mezcalera,” Mariana Rivera Hernadez. Produced from farm to bottle in Puebla, Mexico, Bendito Mito arrives in three varieties, the highlights of which are the Mezcal Tobala and Mezcal Tobala Dorado, equally rooted in the dainty, prized toblada species of agave. The difference between the two lies in the aging process. The former remains unaged and clear, rich in notes of roasted agave, caramelized pineapple, and fresh herbs. The latter builds upon the original, barrel-aged to produce a golden amber color and a more complex aroma and taste that evokes the scent of vanilla and the sweetness of caramel and even sweet cherry.

More than just a smooth, smoky-meets-sweet mez-

cal, Bendito Mito is a connection to Mexico’s cultural heritage. The name translates to “blessed myth” and refers to mezcal’s status in Mexican folklore as the “elixir of the gods.” Each bottle is crowned by a gorgeous glass hummingbird, a nod to the highspeed, charismatic avifauna that frequent Puebla’s crop fields, imbibing on their own nectar of the gods, the agave flower. Together, Bendito Mito is a heavenly celebration of Mexico’s mezcal-making heritage, female empowerment, and, quite frankly, some of the best mezcals we’ve tried at its mid-tier price point ($110 for Mezcal Tobala; $140 for Mezcal Tobala Dorado online). (benditomito.com) –P.R.

SETTING THE STANDARD

Palm Beach Media Group is a renowned publishing company with print publications representing a mix of proprietary titles and custom magazines, along with digital solutions, serving the entire state of Florida and more.

PALMBEACHMEDIA.COM

HOME

FROM CITY TO SHORE, THE FINE ART OF MIAMI LIVING INTERIORS

TROPICAL SPLENDOR

A house dubbed the “Opal of Bal Harbour” by a seasoned architecture team well-acquainted with top-tier real estate must be something special. The 11,000-square-foot property sits in proximity to the Intracoastal in a private community that boasts several preeminent features, including a marina, splendid water views from nearly every vantage point, and lush lots thriving with tropical greenery. As if that wasn’t enough, the residence itself is surrounded by full-grown trees and native foliage, and has plenty of space where the owners’ kids can roam freely and safely.

When the homeowners hired architect Stephanie Halfen, head of SDH Studio Architecture + Design in North Miami Beach, they requested a warm, tropical design inspired by Balinese style. “The whole idea was to create a seamless flow that runs inside and out with an inviting palette and natural materials,” she notes.

To capture the tone of the exterior architecture, the clients enlisted innovative Mexico City–based designers Gabriel Askenazi and Jack Sulkin , who established a symbiotic relationship between the indoor and outside areas.

“When conceptualizing this project, we wanted to create a multisensory experience,” says Askenazi. “We designed the home with a modern Mediterranean style that seeks to showcase the beauty of the materials in their natural state.”

Despite never meeting one another until the end of the project, the architectural and design teams collaborated with a natural flow, flawlessly complementing each other’s work in an exciting way.

“They captured the warmth of the exterior

and used gorgeous materials to enhance the architecture,” says Halfen. “When I asked the homeowners how they felt in this house, they said they were completely in love, and every time they woke up, they couldn’t believe where they were. They also told me the

kids don’t want to go on vacation because they are so happy enjoying the house, which is truly priceless. That’s the best part of my job—enriching people’s everyday lives and experiences.” (sdhstudio.com, sulkin askenazi.com) —Jeanne de Lathouder

DAVID HERNANDEZ

HOME

BY DESIGN

HEALTHY AT HOME

ELEVATE YOUR WELL-BEING BY IMPLEMENTING THESE SIMPLE DESIGN CHANGES

BY ALENA CAPRA

In recent years, we have seen an increased focus on wellness in the home. Creating a healthier environment is easier than ever, and even small changes can truly make a difference. Whether it’s the air we breathe, the floors we walk on, or the decorative materials that surround us, here are some things to consider as you work to improve your home’s wellness factor. (alenacapradesigns.com)

LIGHTEN UP

CONSIDER YOUR CIRCADIAN RHYTHM, WHICH PLAYS A LARGE ROLE IN HUMAN SLEEP/WAKE CYCLES, MOODS, AND OUR ABILITY TO CONCENTRATE. FOR THE BEDROOM, A PROPER MATTRESS, THE RIGHT LIGHTING, AND TEMPERATURE CONTROLS CAN HELP. YOU CAN INCORPORATE LIGHT THERAPY BY CHANGING OUT YOUR LIGHTBULBS TO SMART BULBS THAT OFFER DIFFERENT MODES OF LIGHTING AT DIFFERENT TIMES OF DAY (LIKE RELAX MODE, SLEEP MODE, CONCENTRATION MODE, AND MORE). PHILIPS HUE IS A DESIGNER FAVORITE BRAND WITH A VARIETY OF BULBS AND FIXTURES THAT WORK TOGETHER THROUGH AN APP THAT PUTS A HOST OF HEALTHY, CUSTOM LIGHTING SETTINGS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS.

FLOOR Focus

A healthy home starts from the ground up. Choosing flooring materials that don’t harbor allergens and dust is paramount, so consider eliminating carpeting all together. Instead, opt for materials like VOC-free porcelain and ceramic tiles. Another option is polished concrete which offers safe, zero-VOC options in a variety of colors and textures. When considering flooring, look for products that are FloorScore- or GreenGuard-certified, but remember: the VOCs emitted by any product go beyond what you see on the surface. Make sure your flooring underlayments (which provide cushioning, leveling, soundproofing, and moisture barriers) are also compliant. Similarly, if your flooring calls for the use of adhesives, glues, grouts, or sealers, look for natural brands or VOC-compliant options.

BREATHE EASY

CLEAN COLORS

When it comes to painting the interior of your home, choosing a paint without volatile organic compounds (VOCs), is the best way to ensure good indoor air quality. VOCs are emitted as gases from certain liquids and solids, and they can have short- or long-term health effects. A number of paint brands offer zero-VOC options in a variety of finishes and colors. For example, zero-VOC paints are available from the Benjamin Moore Natura line and the Sherwin-Williams ProMar 200 line. Brands like Alkemis Paint also offer paint products that are water vapor–permeable, making mold growth impossible.

There are many ways to keep the air in your home free of allergens and other impurities. Air purifiers loaded with HEPA filters come in a variety of sizes and models. Some brands even offer decorative options, like Alen’s series of interchangeable panels in wood grain and metallics. Be sure to match the size of the air purifier unit to fit the square footage of the area you plan to use it in, and also check the noise level—many air purifiers can get loud on high settings. Anything over 60 decibels will likely be too loud for many home environments.

HAPPY FLOORS

PHILLIPS HUE

ELEMENTS

BLOCK PARTY

SPARK A SPIRITED DESIGN CONVERSATION WITH COLOR-BLOCKED DECOR

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

OVER THE MOON

The Half Moon Layered Blocks pillow cover (starting at $49) by West Elm will instantly crank up the volume on a muted furniture piece. West Elm locations (westelm.com)

THROW DOWN

Acclaimed artist Hella Jongerius created this multihued Peruvian highland fringed wool throw ($445) for Vitra Design Within Reach, Miami (dwr.com)

THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL

This digitally remastered Jonathan Adler print ($2,890) by artist Paule Marrot showcases the colors and geometry that made her a staple of the Art Deco movement. Jonathan Adler, Miami (jonathanadler.com)

ART SHOW

Designer Alex Alonso of Mr. Alex Tate let an eye-catching art piece by Valentino Fialdini help shape the vibe of this entryway. “I wanted the foyer to be a statement that reflected our studio approach of vintage and new, modern and old,” says Alonso. “We liked the pairing of the very modern piece of art sitting in the same space as the clients’ vintage chairs, which we had repainted and reupholstered.” Miami(mralextate.com)

WEDDED BLISS

Murano glassmaker Nason

Moretti marries colored opaque and translucent glass to create these dynamic wine tumblers ($108 each) in an array of hues. Nest Casa, Miami(nestcasa.com)

HYPNOTIC HEXAGON

With a mesmerizing pattern and chic acrylic form, this Nicolette Mayer Collection Hex vanity tray ($100) will be a gorgeous addition to any table or shelf. Pom Gifts, Hallandale (pom-gifts.com)

MODERN LOVE

A play on color, material, and shape, Von Gern Home’s Quatro napkin rings ($72 for set of four) will turn your tablescape into a modern art installation. Il’Argento, Miami (ilargentousa.com)

INSIDE THE LINES

The Massoud handcrafted Lapis color-blocked settee ($3,670) marries sophistication and sass, complete with linen upholstery, a hardwood frame, and nailhead trim.

Neiman Marcus, Bal Harbour, Coral Gables(neiman marcus.com)

JUAN PABLO CASTRO

SOCIAL STUDIES

SEEN ON THE SCENE IN MIAMI-DADE

SOUTH ASIAN CELEBRATION

WHO: The Desai Foundation WHAT: Holi in Miami

WHERE: The Sagamore Hotel, Miami Beach

HIGHLIGHTS: Miami’s South Asian community came together to celebrate and share the spirit of Holi, a significant Hindu festival celebrated as the Festival of Colors, Love, and Spring.

THE DESAI FOUNDATION

DJ O FRESH

KALPNA PATEL

TINA SODHI, RESHMA PARVANI, SINDHYA VALLOPPILLIL, VICKY SABHARWAL, VANESSA JESWANI

VANESSA CASTELLANOS, VICKY SABHARWAL, SUNITA BHAGWAN

MEGHA DESAI

NIKHIL KALGHATGI, SINDHYA VALLOPPILLIL, MARIA SUAREZ, AAKASH DHUNA

CELEBRATING AT THE HOLI COLOR WALL INSTALLED BY KULTURE KHAZANA

JAMAL AHMED, ARTI LALWANI

SOCIAL STUDIES

FINS FIGHTERS

WHO: Miami Dolphins x Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer

Center WHAT: Fourteenth Annual Dolphins Challenge

Cancer WHERE: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens

HIGHLIGHTS: More than 6,700 participants biked 13, 39, 54, or 99 miles (representing the jersey numbers of Dolphins Hall of Famers) or competed in a 5K to raise over $12 million.

DAVID LONG, CHRISTIAN WILKINS

STEPHEN M. ROSS

CHAKA KHAN

ZACK THOMAS, DAVID LONG

MIKE MCDANIEL

SOCIAL STUDIES

SOBEWFF 2024 HIGHLIGHTS

1. CINCORO TEQUILA CELEBRATES

NATIONAL MARGARITA DAY Cincoro Tequila (co-founded by five NBA legends including Michael Jordan) held an intimate cocktail party and dinner at ZZ’s Miami featuring ultra-luxe tequila cocktails.

2. ABSOLUT VODKA’S DRAG BRUNCH

HOSTED BY DAVID BURTKA AND NEIL PATRICK HARRIS This alfresco event was led by Mistress of Ceremonies Athena Dion, with special performances by Alaska 5000, Willam, and Cynthia Lee Fontaine.

3. CASA MATILDA X STOUDEMIRE

WINES Casa Matilda ended the festival

with a private dinner hosted by former NBA superstar Amare Stoudemire showcasing his Stoudemire Wines collection.

4. WHISPERING ANGEL’S CELEBRITY

CHEF PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT

The wine brand teamed up with Tara Bernstein and Hunter Fieri for the second annual tournament at the Miami Beach Golf Club.

5. PITMASTER PAT MARTIN X THE PATIO AT THE CONTINUUM

The renowned master of West Tennessee–style barbecue joined chef Claudio Lobina at the iconic Miami Beach residences for this fifth annual showcase with an exclusive dinner.

MATT STEVENS AND LINDSAY SILBERMAN

ALEXANDER TAMARGO/GETTY IMAGES

ALEXANDER TAMARGO/GETTY IMAGES

ATHENA DION

NEIL PATRICK HARRIS AND DAVID BURTKA, LEE BRIAN SCHRAGER

ALASKA 5000

NICO NORENA AND ADRIANA RUEDA-NORENA ERIN MICHELLE NEWBERG, EVA GARZON

TAMARGO/GETTY IMAGES

BILLY GRANT CLAUDIO LOBINA, PAT MARTIN

LAURA HICKEY, MARIANA WEBER

KATHIA JOSEPH, ROHAN MARLEY

MICHAEL SCHWARTZ

RONALD TAYLOR, AMARE STOUDEMIRE

KAMAL HOTCHANDANI, BRANDON MARSHALL, AMARE STOUDEMIRE, RONALD TAYLOR, ROHAN MARLEY

AARON BROWN, MARCEE KATZ

DANIELLE DARLING, ALISON BOWLES, TARA BERNSTEIN, HUNTER FIERI

PHOTOGRAPHY, INC. AURA GROUP

PHOTOGRAPHY, INC.

PHOTOGRAPHY, INC.

LAST WORD

ON THE RECORD WITH...

MICHAEL SALZHAUER (AKA “DR. MIAMI”)

You can find Dr. Michael Salzhauer streaming his surgical procedures and cosmetic consultations on Snapchat, where his 3.2 million followers ogle before, after, and during videos that document the journeys of people in search of surgical interventions to transform their bodies. Salzhauer believes those transformations (which he carries out at his practice in Bay Harbor Islands) are more than just skin deep. Despite the bravado he shows on-screen, Salzhauer says plastic surgery has the power to change his patients’ lives for the better. Here, Aventura gets the skinny on social media’s favorite surgical star. (thereal drmiami.com) —Kristen Desmond LeFevre

X

My full name is… Michael Alexander Salzhauer. I live in… Bay Harbor Islands. I grew up in… Orangeburg, New York. My first paycheck in life was… [as a] Domino’s delivery boy. I came to Miami… because my wife wanted to. When I was a kid, I wanted to be… a doctor. Plastic surgery became my specialty because… I hated my nose. I have had a nose job. I broadcast my plastic surgery procedures on Snapchat because… I want to demystify and destigmatize plastic surgery. Coming in second place for “Snapchatter of the Year” to D.J. Khaled was… an honor. The difference between the me you see on Snapchat and the me you see when the camera is off is… less lighting in real life. Misinformation I hear a lot is… people who have plastic surgery just don’t want to go to the gym. Brazilian butt lift procedures (BBLs) get a bad rap because… some doctors don’t do them correctly. The procedure I’m best known for is… BBL. My favorite procedure to do is… mommy makeovers; it’s also the procedure I do most often. In a normal week, I’ll do… 10 procedures. Patients from all over the world seek me out as their doctor because… I care. My waiting list for appointments is… not as long as you think. Call me! If I wasn’t doing this, I’d probably be a… stand-up comedian. I start every morning by… praying.

Having a documentary film team follow me for They Call Me Dr. Miami was… a dream. To stay in shape, I… take Mounjaro. My cheat-day obsession is… steak. When I’m not working, you’ll find me… with my wife. My biggest fear is… disappointing my wife. One question I get asked a lot is… “Can I get a free BBL?” People would be surprised to know that… I host a true crime podcast called Crime and Plastic My next big project is… a collab with weight loss program Kiini Life.

DR. MICHAEL SALZHAUER