GREEN
SEA SHELLS

Looking for the perfect getaway to recharge your mind, body, and soul? Whether you're planning a summer break, a birthday, or simply seeking an escape with your closest friends, California's wellness resorts offer a retreat amidst stunning natural landscapes and luxurious accommodations. Photo of Yoga at the resort: Media by Wix From retreats among the redwoods of Northern California to spas set amidst the vineyards of Napa Valley, and from sanctuaries in the hills of Malibu to beachfront escapes in Southern California, the Golden State boasts an array of wellness experiences to suit every taste and preference. Imagine starting your day with yoga by the sea, followed by spa treatments and gourmet dining experiences. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, California's wellness resorts provide the ideal setting to unwind, recharge, and reconnect with yourself. So why wait? Treat yourself to a wellness escape and experience relaxation in sunny California. Here is a list of resorts to consider as you plan your trip. Southern California Cal-a-Vie  Cal-a-Vie, crowned North America’s top Destination Health Spa by Travel + Leisure, stands as a celebrated fitness and wellness sanctuary in the captivating landscape of Vista, California. With a blend of fitness, nutrition, relaxation, and holistic alignment, Cal-a-Vie Health Spa crafts programs designed to foster harmony between mind and body. The Ranch Malibu  Photo: The Ranch Malibu (via google.com) At The Ranch, immersive programs lead guests through a guided fitness journey, offering wellness support and precisely tailored nutrition to detoxify their bodies in a sustainable, health-conscious manner, all amidst a return to nature's roots. Honored with the prestigious Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards, this resort prioritizes rigorous fitness regimens, organic culinary delights, and mindfulness exercises. Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa   Amidst the lush landscapes of San Diego, Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa invites guests to unwind in luxury. Recognized with the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award, visitors can indulge in activities like tennis, cycling, and meditation, all while surrounded by the beauty of the resort's Mediterranean-inspired architecture and lush gardens. The Spa at Rancho Valencia is a true haven, providing solitude, stillness, and peace. Montage Laguna Beach  Atop a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific, Montage Laguna Beach invites guests into the vibrant heart of Southern California’s premier artist community. Honored with the AAA Five Diamond Award, this resort offers guests holistic wellness experiences such as seaside yoga and indulgent spa treatments. Pamper yourself with a California Wildflower Massage or indulge in the luxurious Five Senses treatment at Spa Montage. The Resort at Pelican Hill  Located along the pristine shores of Newport Beach, The Resort at Pelican Hill radiates elegance and sophistication. Recognized with the Conde Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Award for Best Resort in Southern California, it provides personalized wellness evaluations and spa treatments inspired by the Mediterranean. Guests can engage in activities such as golf, swimming, and coastal hikes, all while relishing breathtaking ocean vistas and first-rate amenities. Terranea Resort Perched along the scenic coast of Rancho Palos Verdes, Terranea presents a peerless luxury retreat. Celebrated with the esteemed Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards, this resort showcases invigorating spa therapies inspired by the sea and wellness pursuits such as yoga sessions and coastal strolls. Amidst the sprawling grounds, guests can unwind by the pool, embark on culinary adventures with farm-to-table dining, and relish panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean. The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel  Sitting majestically atop a cliff in Dana Point, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel promises awe-inspiring vistas and unmatched opulence. Renowned for its excellence with the AAA Five Diamond Award, this resort tailors personalized fitness regimens and indulgent spa experiences inspired by the ocean. Boasting elegant lodgings and coastal-inspired aesthetics, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel provides guests with a sophisticated and revitalizing seaside escape. Fairmont Grand Del Mar  Set amidst the rolling hills of San Diego, Fairmont Grand Del Mar emerges as a sanctuary for the senses. Recognized with the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award, this resort offers wellness retreats and European-inspired spa treatments. Guests can enjoy activities like golf, horseback riding, and nature walks, all while experiencing the timeless elegance and luxury of Fairmont Grand Del Mar. Park Hyatt Aviara  Amidst the coastal beauty of Carlsbad, Park Hyatt Aviara offers a sanctuary for relaxation and renewal. Honored with the AAA Five Diamond Award, this resort provides guests with personalized spa treatments and outdoor activities like golf and hiking. With its elegant accommodations and serene surroundings, Park Hyatt Aviara offers guests a luxurious retreat where they can recharge. Experience globally inspired services and award-winning wellness experiences at Miraval Life in Balance Spa Aviara. Discover transformative spa services that fuse ancient and modern techniques. North & Central California Post Ranch Inn Photo credit: Post Ranch Inn (via Google.com) Resting on the cliffs of Big Sur, Post Ranch Inn stands as a serene retreat for those seeking balance and renewal. Recognized with the Conde Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Award 2023 for Best Wellness Retreat, this resort prioritizes holistic wellness and organic spa treatments amid awe-inspiring natural landscapes. Guests can engage in activities like guided hikes, meditation sessions, and spa therapies, all crafted to foster a reconnection with nature and enhance well-being. Additionally, this hotel earned the Andrew Harper Member's Choice Awards 2024 - #1 Top Hotel in the World, under 50 rooms. Alila Ventana Big Sur Photo: Alila Ventana Big Sur (Via google.com) Ventana is an exclusive Adults Only resort offering comprehensive wellness programs designed for transformation. Embraced by the stunning landscapes of Big Sur, it serves as a haven for relaxation. Recognized with Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards, this resort offers guests a distinctive wellness journey encompassing guided hikes, yoga sessions, and rejuvenating spa therapies. If you seek mindful travel experiences with purpose, this is an ideal destination to explore. Moreover, their tent cabins for glamorous camping are now available, providing a sophisticated way to immerse yourself in the outdoors. Cavallo Point  Photo: Cavallo Point (via google.com) Cavallo Point offers a serene escape from everyday stresses. Located on 45 natural acres within Golden Gate National Park, just minutes from Sausalito, this eco-friendly resort has earned the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Award. Guests enjoy wellness workshops and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Committed to sustainability and well-being, Cavallo Point provides a space for relaxation, renewal, and connection with nature. Its award-winning Healing Arts Center and Spa offers integrative medicine consultations for complete rejuvenation. Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection  In the heart of Calistoga, Solage stands as a premier destination in Napa Valley. Honored with the esteemed Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards, this resort offers geothermal spa treatments, outdoor pursuits like cycling and hiking, and delightful farm-to-table dining experiences. Solage's renowned 20,000-square-foot Spa Solage highlights the cherished Calistoga mud and mineral water therapies, dating back to the 19th century. The Bathhouse elevates the wellness journey with exclusive geothermal pools, ranging from icy cold to a comforting 98° and a soothing 103°. Meadowood Napa Valley  Photo: Meadowood Napa Valley (via google.com) Amidst the vineyards of Napa Valley, Meadowood stands as a luxurious retreat for wellness enthusiasts. Recognized with the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award, this resort offers personalized spa treatments, wellness activities, and farm-to-table dining experiences. Carneros Resort and Spa  Photo: Carneros Resort & Spa (via google.com) Carneros Resort and Spa, committed to luxury and wellness, cultivates an environment where guests can unwind and embrace the beauty of wine country. Offering a variety of experiences, the resort provides exclusive access to the Spa at Carneros, where skilled therapists enhance the relaxation experience for guests.

Crater Lake, with its impossibly blue waters and ancient volcanic roots, is the kind of place that quiets the noise inside you. Tucked deep in Oregon’s Cascade Mountains, this sacred lake calls to those seeking space—to breathe deeper, walk longer, and feel more alive. Photo credit: GreenSeaShells.com. Location: Crater Lake Oregon If you're craving a journey that steadies your pace and stirs your senses, this guide will take you there. From the soft crunch of forest trails to the comforts of nearby spa resorts, we’ve covered everything you need to know for a soul-nourishing visit. What’s So Unique About Crater Lake? Formed nearly 8,000 years ago by the collapse of Mount Mazama, Crater Lake is a still, sapphire basin held within a caldera—sacred to the native Makalak people. With no rivers feeding into it, the lake’s clarity comes from centuries of rain and snow. It’s the deepest lake in the United States and among the cleanest in the world. Each winter, it transforms under a quiet blanket of snow, receiving more than 40 feet annually. Photo credit: Velichor on Unsplash When Should You Go? Summer offers open trails and wide skies—ideal for hiking and quiet viewpoints. If snowshoeing through a hushed, white forest sounds inviting, winter unveils a different kind of magic. Photo credit: GreenSeaShells.com. Location: Crater Lake Oregon What to Do at Crater Lake Begin at the Rim Visitor Center in Rim Village, where you’ll find maps and hiking options. Even just standing at the edge, taking in the stillness, can feel like an experience. Walks and Hikes Board, Crater Lake. Photo credit: GreenSeaShells.com Recommended Hikes Watchman Peak - A steady climb that rewards you with sweeping views of the entire lake—especially beautiful at sunset. Cleetwood Cove - A rugged trail that brings you right to the lake’s edge. Take a breath, then a brave dip in the icy blue. The uphill return is no joke—carry water and use the restroom beforehand. Plaikni Falls - A gentle, woodsy trail ending at a cold cascade of water. Less traveled, deeply rewarding. For detailed trail info, check the official Crater Lake National Park website. Can You Go Boating on Crater Lake? Yes—if you plan ahead. The lake’s only boat tours depart from the base of Cleetwood Cove Trail. Options include the Standard Lake Tour and the Wizard Island excursion. Boats operate seasonally, and spots fill up quickly. Book here . Do You Need a Car? You’ll want one. Some hotels offer seasonal shuttles, but driving from Medford (about 2 hours away) or Klamath Falls gives you freedom to explore. Rental cars from Medford airport are your best bet. Can I Stay at Crater Lake? While there are limited overnight options directly within the park, most travelers find their base in Klamath Falls , about 45 minutes away. Often called The Gateway to Crater Lake , this town offers a quieter pace, good food, and easy access to the lake and surrounding attractions. On our visit, we stayed at a resort that felt like a destination in itself: Running Y Ranch Golf and Spa Resort Set on 3,600 acres at the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, this peaceful property offers lodge rooms and vacation homes, an onsite restaurant, a Signature Arnold Palmer Golf Course, and a spa-style center complete with a pool and jacuzzi. Scroll down for more stay options—from upscale to budget-friendly. Things to Do in Klamath Falls Klamath Falls makes for a perfect base. Here’s what to check out nearby: Crater Lake ZipLine - Glide between treetops with panoramic views of the Upper Klamath Basin. Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge- Bring a camera—this is a peaceful spot for birdwatching and learning about the region’s ecology. Lava Beds National Monument- Caves, petroglyphs, and high-desert beauty. Start at the visitor center, then take your flashlight into the lava tubes. Fishing at Klamath Lake - Known for trout and still mornings. Moore Park- Rent bikes from Zach’s Bike Rentals and explore scenic trails winding through tall pines. Where to Stay on Your Visit to Crater Lake Map of Crater Lake and Where to Stay When planning a visit to Crater Lake, accommodation options range from luxurious resorts to more budget-friendly choices. Here's a guide to help you find the perfect place to stay, whether you want to splurge or save. Running Y Ranch Golf and Spa Resort Klamath Fall, OR Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Klamath Klamath Falls, OR Shilo Inn Suites Hotel Klamath Falls, OR Sleep Inn & Suites Chiloquin-Crater Lake Junction Crater Lake Resort Chiloquin, OR Whether you spend a few hours at the rim or linger for days in Klamath’s still landscapes, Crater Lake offers more than views—it offers a return to rhythm, quiet, and presence.

Stepping onto the grounds of Mirante do Gavião , we didn’t feel like tourists checking in. It felt quieter than that—as if the forest already knew we were coming. The Rio Negro flowed beside us, massive and still, while the layered sounds of the rainforest played in the background. The sky was clouded but glowing. We stood still for a moment before heading in. Photo credit: Mirante do Gavião A Rare and Reverent Journey Our journey began in Manaus, a city shaped by the river. After spending time exploring the historic opera house and watching the waters of the Rio Negro and Solimões run side by side without mixing, we packed into a car and drove three hours deeper into the Amazon. The landscape changed slowly: highways turned to single-lane roads, and houses grew sparse. Then came Novo Airão, a small riverside town where the road ended and the forest truly began. Rio Negro + Anavilhanas National Park Mirante do Gavião is tucked just at the edge of this town, overlooking the Rio Negro and wrapped in trees. Raised walkways connect 13 stilted bungalows surrounded by over 70 species of native plants. Designed with care and minimal disruption to the land, the lodge feels less like a place that was built and more like a place that waited to be found. Mirante di Gaviao Reception area A Stay That Let the Forest In Our bungalow was shaped like an inverted canoe and built with locally sourced wood. The design was clean and open, the materials warm and unfussy. Floor-to-ceiling glass brought the river right into the room. Photo credit: Mirante do Gavião The bathroom was partially open to the canopy, and looking out of the balcony was how we spent every morning and many evenings. Nothing felt excessive. Everything felt considered. Wildlife, River, and Memory One morning, we went to see pink river dolphins. Another day, a bright green iguana appeared on a branch near our deck, still and alert. The wildlife came and went on its own terms. At night, we joined a guided boat safari. At one point, our guide turned off the motor and lights, and we drifted in silence. It wasn’t dramatic. It was just real. In the dark, you could hear how much life was around you. AK with a pink dolphin! Later that week, we took a sunset boat ride and, at our guide’s signal, my family jumped into the Rio Negro. The water was warm, dark, and surprisingly calm. I didn’t go in—I kept thinking about piranhas—but I could tell from their laughter that it was one of those moments that stays with you. Back on the boat, someone reached for a towel only to find a grasshopper waiting inside. Everyone froze, then burst into laughter. Everyday Life in the Amazon In Novo Airão, we stopped at a woodworking initiative where young artisans learn to build with reclaimed materials. Mirante collaborates with organizations like the Association of Artisans of the Jauaperi River, Almerinda Malaquias Foundation and the Association of Artisans of Novo Airão, empowering locals through education and economic opportunities. It was in this context that we visited the wood workshop. Later, we traveled by boat to a remote indigenous village. It wasn’t a curated experience. There were no formal presentations. Just people living in rhythm with the forest—drying fishing nets, carving tools, weaving baskets, children running around. We visited a small shop there. A hawk sat nearby like it belonged. Macaws flew past overhead. There was no need for explanation. Just observation and respect. Plants That Heal On a guided forest walk, we learned how locals use tree bark, roots, and sap for healing. One plant closed its leaves when touched. Another tree’s resin helped seal wounds. It was a reminder that this forest has always been a source of knowledge, not just scenery. A quick photo moment during the interpretive trail in the Brazilian Amazon rainforest A Quiet Return Each Day After each excursion, we returned to the pool—tucked between the trees and glowing softly by night. I didn’t swim much. I sat by the edge, feet in the water, thinking about everything we’d seen. There was no music. Just space. Photo credit: Mirante do Gavião Dining at Camu Camu The meals were thoughtful and vibrant, with plenty of options for vegetarians. We tasted fruits we’d never heard of, paired with ingredients from nearby communities. Every dish told a story—from exotic caipirinhas infused with cupuaçu and açaí to thoughtfully prepared meals that highlighted the region’s rich culinary heritage. Each plate felt rooted in place, and the chef’s skill came through without needing explanation. Photo credit: Mirante do Gavião What Stays Behind Mirante do Gavião is more than a lodge. It supports local nonprofits, collaborates with artisan groups, and helps preserve both cultural and ecological knowledge. That work isn’t highlighted in neon. But it’s there. Photo credit: Mirante do Gavião Before You Go Book through Katerre Expeditions (not available on booking platforms) Closest airport: Manaus, Brazil Travel time: ~3 hours by car Yellow fever vaccine: Recommended at least 10 days before travel Visa: Check current entry requirements Tips for Planning Choose the all-inclusive package—meals and excursions are included and well curated Pack light. Bring breathable layers, good insect repellent, and a waterproof daypack Ask questions, but also listen more than you speak Remember, the Amazon isn’t here to impress you. It’s here to continue being itself Visiting the Amazon is a window into a way of life most of us never touch. Mirante do Gavião doesn’t ask you to admire it. It quietly invites you to pay attention. A Request The Amazon is home to an incredible range of species, many of which are sensitive to human presence. As visitors, we have a responsibility to observe without interfering. That means avoiding flash photography, not feeding or touching animals, and refusing activities that disturb their natural environment. Guides may offer options, but it’s up to us to say no to anything that feels intrusive. Every decision we make contributes to the delicate balance of this place, helping ensure it stays wild and intact for future generations.

When planning a luxury getaway, we meticulously choose hotels based on their brand, reputation, and amenities. But one crucial element often goes unnoticed—the spa brand within these establishments. Unlike hotels, which we research extensively, the world-class spa brands operating within them rarely get the same recognition, despite their transformative experiences, signature treatments, and award-winning expertise. Imagine stepping into a sanctuary where the air is laced with calming essential oils, the sound of trickling water soothes your senses, and skilled therapists tailor treatments that leave a lasting imprint on your well-being. A spa experience can define a trip, turning a luxury stay into something unforgettable. The memory of a signature massage at a Banyan Tree spa or an Ayurvedic ritual at Six Senses lingers long after you return home. These spa brands go beyond relaxation—they create a journey of wellness, restoration, and indulgence that deserves as much consideration as the hotel itself. This guide uncovers the most prestigious spa brands, their signature treatments, and why they deserve the same loyalty we give to hotels. Whether you're seeking holistic wellness, cutting-edge skincare, or indulgent relaxation, these spa brands set the standard for ultimate luxury. Photo credit: Unsplash Six Senses Spa: Sustainable Luxury and Holistic Healing Global Presence: Thailand, Vietnam, India, Fiji, Japan, Turkey, Greece, Switzerland, Spain, Dominican Republic Why Choose It? Sustainability-focused, organic skincare, Ayurvedic and detox therapies Signature Experience: Ayurvedic treatments, personalized wellness programs Top Location: Six Senses Yao Noi, Thailand Best for: Sustainable luxury spa resorts, holistic wellness retreats Photo credit: Six Senses Yao Noi, Thailand (via Google.com) Aman Spa: Personalized Wellness Rooted in Local Traditions Global Presence: Indonesia, Bali, Tokyo, Venice, the U.S. Why Choose It? Exclusive Aman Skincare line, bespoke wellness programs Signature Experience: Balinese massage, Javanese beauty rituals Top Location: Amanpuri, Phuket, Thailand Best for: Personalized wellness programs in luxury resorts Photo credit: Amanpuri, Phuket (via Google.com) Mandarin Oriental Spa: East-Meets-West Luxury Treatments Global Presence: Hong Kong, Bangkok, New York, London Why Choose It? Custom skincare range, traditional Chinese medicine integration Signature Experience: Thai massage, anti-aging treatments Top Location: Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, Thailand Best for: Top-rated hotel spas for Ayurvedic therapies Photo credit: Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok, Thailand (via Google.com) Banyan Tree Spa: Tropical Serenity Meets Healing Therapies Global Presence: Singapore, Maldives, Phuket, Seychelles Why Choose It? Signature tropical garden spa pavilions, holistic treatments Signature Experience: Chakra balancing, rainforest indulgence Top Location: Banyan Tree Phuket, Thailand Best for: Exclusive spa services in boutique hotels Photo credit: Banyan Tree, Phuket, Thailand Four Seasons Spa: Innovation and Traditional Wellness Combined Global Presence: Canada, Maui, Paris, Maldives Why Choose It? High-end skincare, personalized treatments Signature Experience: Hot stone massage, couples' retreats, evidence-based wellness screenings Top Location: Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru Best for: Award-winning hotel spa treatments Photo credit: Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru (via google.com) Anantara Spa: Indigenous Rituals and Modern Healing Global Presence: Thailand, Maldives, Abu Dhabi, Bali Why Choose It? Local ingredient-based skincare, signature Anantara massage Signature Experience: Hammam rituals, Arabian-inspired treatments Top Location: Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort Best for: Holistic wellness retreats in luxury hotels Photo credit: Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort (via google.com) Spa by JW: Contemporary Luxury for the Modern Traveler Global Presence: USA, Dubai, Shanghai Why Choose It? Express treatments, aromatherapy-focused wellness Signature Experience: Rejuvenating facials, luxury hammam rooms Top Location: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, UAE Best for: Signature treatments at high-end hotel spas Photo credit: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, UAE (via google.com) Ritz-Carlton Spa: Opulent Retreats with Signature Treatments Global Presence: USA, Bali, Kyoto, Barcelona Why Choose It? Indigenous ingredient-based skincare, unparalleled luxury Signature Experience: Diamond-infused facials, volcanic stone massage Top Location: The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, Indonesia Best for: Luxury hotel spa brands with organic skincare Photo credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, Indonesia (via google.com) Shangri-La Spa: Asian-Inspired Wellness and Serenity Global Presence: Hong Kong, Singapore, Sydney, Paris Why Choose It? Exclusive botanical skincare, Tibetan sound healing Signature Experience: Himalayan salt scrubs, Chinese meridian massage Top Location: Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore Best for: Best luxury hotel spa brands Photo credit: Shangri-La Singapore (via google.com) COMO Shambhala: A Sanctuary for Holistic Wellness Global Presence: Singapore, Bali, Bhutan, Maldives Why Choose It? Integrative wellness approach, COMO-branded products Signature Experience: Ayurvedic detox, deep tissue massage Top Location: COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali Best for: Top spa experiences in five-star hotels Photo credit: COMO Uma Ubud, Bali (via google.com) Westin Heavenly Spa: Wellness-Focused Rejuvenation Global Presence: USA, Tokyo, Dubai, Rome Why Choose It? Botanical-infused skincare, signature sleep-enhancing treatments Signature Experience: Heavenly massage, aromatherapy bath ritual Top Location: The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Hawaii, USA Best for: Relaxation-focused spa treatments in upscale hotels Photo credit: The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Hawaii, USA (via google.com) Hyatt Pure Spa: Modern Relaxation & Rejuvenation Global Presence: USA, Hawaii, Dubai, Tokyo Why Choose It? Natural ingredient-based skincare, tranquil spa settings Signature Experience: Hydrating body wrap, deep tissue massage, reflexology Top Location: Park Hyatt Dubai, UAE Best for: Wellness seekers looking for high-end treatments in serene environments Photo credit: Park Hyatt Dubai, UAE (via Google.com) Rosewood Sense Spa: Culturally Inspired Luxury Global Presence: USA, London, Beijing, Bahamas Why Choose It? Destination-inspired treatments, holistic healing Signature Experience: Indigenous stone massage, bespoke facial, holistic rituals Top Location: Rosewood London, UK Best for: Travelers seeking luxury spa experiences deeply connected to local culture Photo credit: Rosewood London, UK (via google photos) Waldorf Astoria Spa: Opulent Indulgence Global Presence: USA, Beverly Hills, Dubai, Maldives Why Choose It? High-end skincare, premium luxury experiences Signature Experience: Champagne body treatment, caviar facial, aromatherapy massage Top Location: Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, California, USA Best for: Ultimate luxury spa experiences with elite skincare treatments, home to the world-renowned La Prairie spa Photo credit: Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, California, USA (via google.com) Fairmont Spa: A Harmonious Retreat Global Presence: Canada, Banff, Monte Carlo, Singapore Why Choose It? Hydrotherapy focus, signature mineral pools and whirlpools Signature Experience: Maple sugar body scrub, crystal energy balancing Top Location: Fairmont Banff Springs, Canada Best for: Combining traditional spa rituals with modern wellness practices Photo credit: Fairmont Banff Springs, Canada (via google.com) Mandara Spa: Balinese-Inspired Serenity Global Presence: Indonesia, Thailand, USA, Maldives Why Choose It? Traditional Javanese and Balinese treatments in luxurious settings Signature Experience: Balinese massage, exotic floral bath, Javanese body treatments Top Location: JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, Thailand Best for: Authentic Asian-inspired spa experiences in world-class resorts Photo credit: JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, Thailand (via google.com) Why You Should Be Loyal to Spa Brands While we pledge loyalty to our favorite hotel brands, it’s time we extend that same recognition to spa brands. These elite wellness sanctuaries ensure consistent quality, expertise, and relaxation wherever you travel. Choosing a trusted spa brand means knowing you’ll receive the highest level of care, whether indulging in an Ayurvedic detox in Bali or a cutting-edge facial in London. Next time you book a luxury retreat, look beyond the hotel’s name—because the right spa brand can elevate your stay from memorable to truly extraordinary. Prioritize spa brands as you do hotels, and your travels will be infused with wellness, indulgence, and unparalleled rejuvenation.

Traveling to an exotic location is an exciting way to start your marriage, but why wait until the honeymoon? These gorgeous, luxury wedding destinations  are perfect for   nature lovers  like yourself and promise an unforgettable wedding day. Read on to get inspired! Banff, Alberta Photo credit: Nunzio Guerrera on Unsplash The Rocky Mountains extend all the way up to Canada and are the main focus of Banff, a quaint resort town immersed in jaw-dropping beauty. Banff offers an enchanting blend of mountain grandeur and serene lakes.  Though plenty of resorts offer indoor wedding venues in this location, you can take your vows to the great outdoors. Hundreds of hikes will be at your doorstep. Imagine saying, “I do,” with the majestic peaks as your backdrop and the vibrant turquoise waters of Lake Louise reflecting the sky—beautiful!  Kualoa Ranch, Hawaii Photo credit: Brianna Marble on Unsplash In the lush embrace of Oahu, Kualoa Ranch is a symphony of green mountains and sparkling ocean views. This spot is unique because it has plenty of resources and features a well-manicured lawn, as it sees tourists all day long. However, the dramatic Ko’olau Range and the azure waters of the Pacific occupy the scenery, making the ranch look and feel wild.  Interestingly, this spot has been the filming location of iconic films such as Jurassic Park, so your wedding will experience a bit of cinematic charm as well.  Garden of the Gods, Colorado Photo credit: Melanie Magdalena on Unsplash This iconic park features towering sandstone formations that could be the perfect backdrop for your big day. You can exchange vows with Pikes Peak as your witness and see the park turn a fiery gold as the sun descends for the night.  Additionally, Garden of the Gods is just about three hours from Rocky Mountain National Park, giving you and your guests the chance to explore one of the nation’s most famous natural landscapes. Spetses, Greece Greek is a popular destination wedding location, but don’t go to Santorini or Crete—these spots are beautiful but crowded, especially in the summer. Instead, head to Spetses, which is equally stunning but less visited. This will give you and your guests the chance to find peace and celebrate love among the island’s beaches and crystal-clear waters.   Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia Photo credit: Masha Buschujewa on Unsplash For couples looking for a truly unique experience, the Uyuni Salt Flats is an ethereal landscape that feels almost otherworldly. This vast expanse of white salt creates a stunning visual for wedding photography and will leave your guests in awe.  If you decide to host your wedding here, consider a sunset ceremony. The white ground will both reflect and absorb the sunset’s majesty, eventually giving way to a blanket of stars. Though very remote, this location is absolutely worth it for the adventurous.  Tips for Planning a Wedding in Nature If you travel to any of these  gorgeous, luxury wedding destinations for nature lovers , it helps to have a few tricks in mind for pulling off a successful ceremony. First, logistics and accommodations might be trickier for your guests. Acknowledge this and provide plenty of resources to help. Secondly, you may need to hire people to help you carry chairs, a backdrop, and other equipment to your ceremony’s location. You will also need to hire caterers willing to make the trek.  Finally, think about how you can design your ceremony so it both blends in and stands out against its natural backdrop. You might want to consider colorful wedding gowns  for an extra unique touch that won’t become overwhelmed by the colors around you.  Ultimately, a wedding in nature requires more planning, but these destinations will make it all worthwhile. We wish you the best of luck as you embark on your wedding planning journey!

When everyday life becomes overwhelming, sometimes the best form of wellness we can give to our bodies is a mental refreshment in a new environment on a calming vacation. The gentle sound of waves, the rustle of palm leaves, and the warmth of a Hawaiian breeze offer more than just a scenic backdrop. They invite you to pause, reconnect, and find the inner peace you’ve been yearning for.  Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local searching for a serene retreat from daily life, it’s no secret that the lush landscapes and tranquil vibes of Hawaii create the perfect setting for restoration. If you’re looking for a particularly restful trip, the Big Island of Hawaii is an awaiting paradise. So, if you’re seeking out the best quiet moments to find your peace in Hawaii , we’ve got you covered. We’ve collected some tips below on how to center wellness with a trip to this tropical island.  Catch the Sunrise or Sunset There’s something incredibly humbling about witnessing the beginning or end of a day while surrounded by Hawaii’s natural beauty. Watching the sky streak itself with soft oranges, pinks, and purples over the horizon pulls you into the moment.  If you’re searching for places to watch a sunrise or sunset on the Big Island , head to the east coast for spots like Pololū Valley Lookout or Mauna Kea Summit for a stunning sunrise. Or end your day with a breathtaking sunset somewhere like Hapuna Beach, where a sense of gratitude lingers long after the last rays disappear.  Find a Secluded Beach Spot Makalawena Beach, Kalaoa in Hawaii There’s nothing quite like the serenity of a hidden cove where the world feels blissfully far away. Hawaii’s secluded beaches, from Makalawena Beach on the Big Island to Honopu Beach in Kauai, offer a whisper-quiet refuge from the hustle of everyday life.  Feeling the velvety sand beneath your feet and hearing soft waves break along the shore creates a sensory sanctuary. Alone with your thoughts, you’ll find clarity, grounding, and space to breathe. Walk Through a Botanical Garden Wandering through places like the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden on the Big Island immerses you in vibrant ecosystems that feel untouched by time. Each breath is heavy with the scent of tropical flowers, while the sight of oversized ferns and towering palms envelopes you in a lush green haven.  Walking the shaded paths encourages mindful meditation. You begin to notice the tiniest details, like dew drops catching sunlight or the chirping of birds hidden within the foliage. The rhythmic act of walking through this serene environment can ease your mind and leave you rejuvenated. Schedule Some Time in a Spa At places like the Spa Without Walls at Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island , you can experience relaxation while listening to the gentle sounds of the ocean just a few steps away. Each treatment feels tailored to melt away stress, nourish your body, and help you fully disconnect from external distractions. By the time you leave, every inch of yourself feels both rested and renewed. Hang Out on a Hammock Find two sturdy palm trees, string up a hammock under their shade, and surrender yourself to the hypnotic rocking motion. With each gentle sway, your mind mirrors the tranquility of your surroundings.  It’s the ideal moment to take out a journal and string together your thoughts or close your eyes and listen to nature’s soundtrack. You’re free to just exist and enjoy one of the best quiet moments to find your peace in Hawaii.

The Mexican highland city keeps earning global recognition, not because it is perfect, but because it continues to function as a living, adaptive community. Ariel view of 🇲🇽 San Miguel de Allende San Miguel de Allende’s name appears frequently in travel rankings. Its latest recognition— World’s Best City 2025 by Travel + Leisure —places it once again at the top of global lists. Awards often highlight architecture, art, and climate, but San Miguel’s value lies in how it continues to operate as a working city in the middle of international attention. Located in the state of Guanajuato, the city stands at roughly 6,000 feet above sea level. Its size—about 175,000 residents—keeps activity dense but manageable. Streets remain narrow, markets stay central, and most errands are still completed on foot. This walkable design, along with the altitude’s temperate air, creates conditions that support physical and social well-being without the need for dedicated wellness infrastructure. Tourism drives a large share of the local economy, and that success brings visible pressure. Real-estate prices have risen, English is now commonly spoken in downtown, and international ownership is expanding. Critics point to gentrification and a concentration of wealth that did not exist two decades ago. These observations are valid, but they do not erase the systems that continue to anchor daily life. Local food supply chains remain short, community markets open before dawn, and artisan workshops across Colonia Guadalupe and San Antonio employ families who have worked in the same trades for generations. This continuity gives San Miguel resilience. While parts of the center cater to visitors, the city’s institutions—its schools, cooperatives, and public festivals—still operate for residents first. Independence Day, Semana Santa, and the San Miguel Arcángel celebration remain civic events. Public plazas are used throughout the week, and small libraries and cultural groups continue to host programs in Spanish for local children. These practices sustain a civic structure that exists beyond the tourist frame. Boutique hotels and restaurants have also learned to reflect that balance. Properties such as Casa de Sierra Nevada and Hotel Matilda source materials and labor locally, integrate art from regional studios, and employ staff who live within the city. The hospitality sector’s shift toward community hiring and environmental certification indicates a more grounded model of luxury—measured by contribution.   Live Aqua in San Miguel de Allende Wellness in San Miguel de Allende draws from long-standing Mexican traditions as much as from modern spa culture. Temazcal ceremonies, guided by local healers using volcanic stones and medicinal herbs, remain part of the city’s wellness landscape and are offered in community centers and boutique retreats across the outskirts. Herbal-medicine workshops, yoga terraces, and sound-therapy sessions have become common at properties like Feel Urban Spa at Live Aqua which integrate regional practices into structured programs. These experiences connect visitors to the cultural roots of healing in central Mexico—where wellness is social, sensory, and inherited through practice. San Miguel’s continued recognition as the world’s best city is well deserved. It is not free of inequality or outside influence, but it manages to preserve public life, retain small business ownership, and maintain accessibility in a setting that could easily have turned exclusive. For additional context on Mexico’s travel, cultural and wellness landscape, see Oaxaca:Top Experiences, Dining and Essential Tips and Mexico City Travel Guide: Best Attractions, Family Fun & Vegetarian Eats

Awarded Asia’s Best Wellness Retreat by the World Spa Awards, Mandapa in Ubud delivers a measurable and sensory approach to well-being grounded in Balinese tradition. Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Ubud, Bali Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve , sits along the Ayung River in Ubud, surrounded by forest, rice terraces, and steep green ridges. The property covers ten hectares and functions as a contained ecosystem — a mix of agricultural land, water channels, and open-air structures designed to integrate with the terrain. In 2025, it was named Asia’s Best Wellness Retreat by the World Spa Awards , also taking the top honors for both Indonesia and Bali. The spa at Mandapa operates as the core of the estate. It includes five treatment rooms, a yoga pavilion, a meditation temple, and a vitality pool overlooking the river. The design maintains natural airflow, filtered light, and materials that reflect the surrounding environment — stone, bamboo, and teak. Treatments follow a clinical sequence of consultation, preparation, and recovery, blending Balinese healing, Ayurveda, and modern bodywork. Signature programs use locally sourced ingredients such as volcanic mud, herbal oils, sea salt, and lemongrass. The spa team includes Balinese healers, Ayurvedic therapists, and fitness specialists who coordinate routines that move between hydrotherapy, yoga, and restorative body treatments. Guests may also take part in fire and water blessing rituals conducted at the on-site temple, reflecting the Balinese practice of purification through the elements. Nutrition supports the same philosophy of precision. Menus across the resort use regional produce and whole ingredients, with a focus on digestibility, mineral balance, and natural flavor. Cooking methods favor minimal processing, and the culinary approach aligns with the wellness programming, avoiding artificial additives and refined sugars. Each villa has a dedicated patih , a personal host who manages schedules, wellness plans, and logistics across the property. The operational model prioritizes consistency and clarity of experience. Service is quiet, structured, and highly coordinated — an extension of the resort’s broader emphasis on discipline and care. Sustainability is monitored through the Ritz-Carlton Reserve’s environmental framework. Water recycling, composting, and energy audits are routine. The estate’s agricultural sections support native crops and soil conservation, maintaining Mandapa’s visual and ecological balance with the valley. For broader context on Bali travel and cultural wellness, explore Charms of Bali: An Indonesian Journey of Enigma & Discovery .

In Provence, Le Couvent des Minimes Hôtel & Spa L’Occitane has been named World’s Best Eco Spa 2025 for its certified sustainability and restrained design. Le Couvent des Minimes Hôtel & Spa L’Occitane The world’s best eco-spa for 2025 isn’t in Bali or Thailand. It’s in the hills of Provence, inside a 17th-century convent once home to Franciscan nuns. Le Couvent des Minimes Hôtel & Spa L’Occitane , located in the village of Mane, has earned the World’s Best Eco Spa title from the World Spa Awards , along with ** ECOCERT certification as a Sustainable Wellbeing Center — the highest sustainability label available in the spa industry. The property spans 2,500 square metres of wellness facilities: indoor and outdoor pools, a hammam, two saunas, a salt grotto, and a sensory pool. Stone arches and cloister gardens frame the space. Nothing is over-styled; the design keeps the building’s natural proportions intact while introducing discreet comfort. The spa’s approach draws on Provence’s landscape. Treatments use L’Occitane’s signature botanicals — lavender, verbena, almond, and shea butter — in ten rooms designed for facial therapy, deep massage, and hydrotherapy. The treatment menu is divided into four programs: Beauty, Regeneration, Balance, and Detoxification. Each may be tailored to focus on circulation, recovery, or skin renewal, with massage oils and techniques adjusted to the guest’s needs. Beyond treatments, the property integrates yoga, naturopathy, meditation, and fitness sessions that take place in open air or under vaulted ceilings. The gardens supply herbs and flowers used in the spa’s aromatherapy oils, and waste management follows ECOCERT’s criteria for water and energy efficiency. **ECOCERT certification requires audited proof of environmental performance, natural product use, and workplace welfare. Le Couvent des Minimes is among the first luxury spas in Europe to meet that standard in full.

Paros has been named World’s Best Island 2025 , yet what stands out isn’t luxury or nightlife—it’s the way ordinary routines still hold. Paros Greece, Travel + Leisure World’s Best Island 2025. Among the Cyclades, Paros has always existed in the margins of its louder neighbours. This year, the margins took centre stage when Travel + Leisure readers placed the island at the top of their 2025 World’s Best Islands list. Independent reviewers—from Lonely Planet to Discover Greece —describe the same appeal: food that comes from nearby farms, hill villages still inhabited year-round, and a coastline that remains walkable. Naoussa, once a fishing settlement, has evolved without losing its bearings. Morning boats still unload their catch beside boutiques and cafés; evenings bring a tide of diners rather than crowds. Inland, Lefkes and Prodromos preserve marble alleys, community bakeries, and the start of the Byzantine Trail , a 1,000-year-old stone path that links the two villages across olive terraces. Hikers use it as locals once did—for passage and fresh air. Cuisine forms part of the island’s continuity. Traditional dishes—revithada chickpeas slow-cooked in clay, octopus dried on ropes, wild greens dressed in olive oil—remain central to daily menus. Nutrition is unstudied and practical, a by-product of geography rather than ideology. Boutique hotels such as Parīlio , Cosme , and Summer Senses emphasize daylight, whitewashed geometry, and open courtyards. Other notable properties include Paros Agnanti Resort & Spa , honored at the 2025 Greek Hospitality Awards for its sport and wellness programs, and Aura Suites Paros , recognized by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2025 as the Best Luxury Sea View Hotel in the South Aegean. Wellness services are present but measured: a sea-salt treatment here, a yoga deck there, nothing imposed. Paros has avoided the overdevelopment seen elsewhere in the Aegean. Local zoning laws cap building heights and preserve sightlines to the sea. Renewable-energy initiatives led by the municipality are modest but consistent, aimed at maintaining air and water quality rather than expanding capacity. Well-being on Paros is familiar: the smell of thyme in late afternoon, the daily ferry rhythm at the port, conversation that extends into the night. In an era when wellness travel often depends on scheduling and supplements, Paros offers something sturdier—the health that emerges when place and habit still align.

The World Spa Awards named WORLD SPA Brooklyn   North America’s Best Day Spa 2025 , giving New York’s borough a global headline. The 50,000-square-foot space turns hydrotherapy into an international experience—Russian banya, Turkish hammam, Japanese onsen—all within subway reach. The layout is functional: clean stone, open pools, subdued lighting. Instead of spa theatrics, there’s precision—cold plunge, salt steam, aromatherapy, massage. The environment supports downtime without selling it. For residents and travelers alike, the location makes wellness practical, not aspirational. See more of this year’s standouts in our Best Day Spas 2025 list and discover how New York is reshaping relaxation in our Urban Wellness Guide .

Miami’s hotel spas have mastered the art of balance — For travelers and locals alike, these spaces offer everything from Turkish hammams and rain tunnels to Japanese-inspired rituals and botanical facials. Most are open for day access, allowing anyone to enjoy the city’s most luxurious treatments without booking an overnight stay. Across South Beach, Mid-Beach, and Brickell, Miami’s top hotels have turned their spas into destinations in their own right. With global award recognition, brand partnerships, and design philosophies that merge sustainability with indulgence, these are the places redefining what a perfect wellness day looks like in South Florida. Tierra Santa Healing House – Faena Hotel Miami Beach Tierra Santa Healing House – Faena Hotel Miami Beach The Tierra Santa Healing House at Faena Hotel Miami Beach is one of the most distinctive wellness spaces in the U.S., blending Latin American healing traditions with modern biotherapy. The 22,000-square-foot spa features a Turkish-inspired hammam, private treatment suites, and a vast wet spa area with heated marble beds and color-therapy lighting. Signature experiences include the Tree of Life Vibrations Massage and the Amazonian Sacred Earth Ritual, both incorporating natural clays, flower essences, and energetic cleansing techniques. The spa also hosts visiting healers, astrology workshops, and sound-healing sessions. With its bold design and deep cultural grounding, Tierra Santa remains a cornerstone of Miami’s modern spa identity. Best for: South American healing rituals and energy-based wellness. Location: Miami Beach Bookable via: faena.com Lapis Spa – Fontainebleau Miami Beach Lapis Spa – Fontainebleau Miami Beach Inside the iconic Fontainebleau, Lapis Spa delivers a full hydrotherapy experience inspired by European thermal traditions. Named among Forbes Travel Guide’s Four-Star Spas, Lapis is celebrated for its expansive mineral pools, rain tunnels, and eucalyptus-infused steam rooms. Guests can flow through a sequence of water therapies designed to detoxify and improve circulation before heading to customized body treatments. The spa’s Bleau Ocean Journey integrates salt exfoliation, seaweed wraps, and marine-based products, while the Waterfall Massage uses hydro-pressure jets to release deep muscle tension. Accessible for half-day or day-use bookings, Lapis brings resort-level sophistication to those simply seeking a few hours of aquatic therapy and calm. Best for: Hydrotherapy, water-based healing, and restorative day access. Location: Miami Beach Bookable via: https://www.fontainebleau.com/miamibeach/wellness/lapis-spa/ The Spa at The Miami Beach EDITION  The Spa at The Miami Beach EDITION Minimalist and modern, The Spa at The Miami Beach EDITION offers a quiet counterpoint to the city’s louder luxury. Its design is clean and monochromatic — all white wood, limestone, and soft light — creating a cocoon-like atmosphere for contrast therapy, oxygen treatments, and LED facials. Signature services include the Oxygen Infusion Facial and CBD-Enhanced Massage, while wellness add-ons such as cryotherapy and aromatherapy foot soaks cater to precision relaxation. The spa’s Hydrotherapy Lounge features steam, sauna, and ice fountains, and day visitors can pair treatments with rooftop pool access. Best for: Oxygen therapy, LED facials, and 30-minute power naps! Location: Miami Beach Bookable via: https://www.editionhotels.com/miami-beach/spa-and-fitness/relaxation-vacation/ The Spa at Nobu Hotel Miami Beach The Spa at Nobu Hotel Miami Beach Inside the Nobu Hotel (co-located within the Eden Roc property), The Esencia Spa at Nobu merges Japanese design with Miami’s coastal energy. Natural wood tones, stone textures, and water features set the stage for treatments rooted in Japanese rituals of purification and simplicity. Guests can book Shiatsu-inspired massages, Japanese Silk Body Scrubs , or marine facials using Nobu’s exclusive skincare line. The spa also includes an Aroma Steam Room and Thermal Hydrotherapy Area, with day passes available for non-hotel guests. True to Nobu’s philosophy, wellness here extends to food — guests can enjoy a balanced post-treatment bento or matcha service on the spa terrace. Best for: Japanese-inspired spa rituals and holistic luxury. Location: Miami Beach Bookable via: https://www.esenciawellnessspa.com The Spa at The Setai – Miami Beach The Spa at  The Setai – Miami Beach The Spa at The Setai brings Asian-inspired tranquility to the heart of South Beach. Designed with dark teak, Balinese stone, and soft ambient lighting, it’s one of Miami’s most serene hotel spas — and fully open for day access. The menu combines Thai, Balinese, and Himalayan traditions with European skincare lines such as Valmont and Biologique Recherche. Signature experiences include the Himalayan Hot Stone Therapy and Oriental Ritual , both emphasizing circulation and energetic balance. The spa also offers couple’s suites with private steam and rain showers, and visiting practitioners host sessions in reiki and Thai bodywork. Guests often stay for the afternoon, enjoying herbal teas and quiet recovery in the relaxation lounge overlooking the pool and palm garden. Best for: Asian-inspired luxury, couples’ therapies, and calm atmosphere. Location: South Beach Bookable via: https://www.thesetaihotel.com/spa-miami-beach These sanctuaries invite guests to pause — for an hour or a day — and experience what Miami does best: effortless luxury that restores, refines, and renews.

Austin is food haven, even for vegetarians. If you are at all confused where to start your food journey, start with these spots. If it helps, order what we suggest, because those are tried and tested and fantabulous :) 1. Cauliflower tacos + kickass margaritas at Velvet Tacos 522 Congress Avenue, Suite #100 in Austin is where you will find this popular joint with a ton of vegetarian options. Be prepared to wait or go early! 2. Vegetarian Combination platter + Vegetable Fit Fit at Ethiopian / Eritrean food truck Typically, you will find them at 2714 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin. This is no frills, authentic food trailer that shares a sit-down space with other food trucks. Food is lovely! 3. Omega Salad + The Pepino non-alcoholic tonic at Vinaigrette Find this place at 2201 College Ave, Austin. Parking is available. This place is upscale and it is a New Mexico chain. Beet salad and tofu salads are both great. Latter is spicy! 4. Tandoori Broccoli and Cocktails at ClayPit This place is at 1601 Guadalupe Street, Austin. You will find traditional Indian food here as well as contemporary dishes. Food is decent, order without hesitation. 5. Drunken Noodles and Yellow Curry at Thai Thani food truck This place is a find. Finally a food truck that tailors your requests! Just request vegetarian and extra sauce. The food is quite fantastic. You will find the truck at 2101 Manor Road, Austin. 6. Beer + Wood-oven pizza and tomato soup at Jester King It will take you a while to get there but it is worth the drive. Find it at 13187 Fitzhugh Rd, Austin. This is a craft brewery on a 200-acre ranch. Def order their pizzas when you order the beer. 7. Spicy Creamy Vegan Ramen at JINYA This may be a chain from Los Angeles but not many have heard of it. Their vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are impressive and delicious. Find it at 3210 Esperanza Crossing Austin - at The Domain.

Wellness in Miami isn’t confined to five-star hotels or weekend retreats. Across the city and its neighboring coastal areas, a handful of open-access sanctuaries invite visitors to recharge — no overnight stay required. These spaces - meditation studios, thermal spas, yoga gardens, and nature escapes - make wellness part of daily life! Whether you’re seeking a guided breathwork class, a full-body contrast therapy session, or a morning paddle through mangroves, these Miami-area wellness escapes are built for modern schedules — offering credible, high-quality experiences that deliver renewal in just a few hours. Breathe Meditation and Wellness – Coral Gables Breathe Meditation and Wellness is one of Miami’s most professionally structured wellness centers, blending science-based relaxation with accessible daily programming. Guests can book individual sessions in salt therapy , infrared sauna , cryotherapy , and the Magnesphere — a magnetic resonance chair designed to promote nervous system balance. The studio also runs sound baths, reiki, and breathwork classes throughout the week, making it ideal for a single afternoon reset. Best for: Evidence-based relaxation, guided meditation, and stress recovery. Location: Coral Gables Bookable via: https://breathemeditationandwellness.com Ahana Yoga – Miami Design District Ahana Yoga remains one of Miami’s most reputable yoga studios, offering drop-in classes seven days a week in its minimalist, sunlight-filled space. The schedule spans vinyasa , yin , power , and prenatal yoga , led by experienced instructors who emphasize alignment and breath awareness. Its Design District location makes it a convenient stop for locals and visitors exploring Miami’s art and shopping scene who want a quick yet grounded reset. Best for: Consistent, high-quality daily yoga classes. Location: Miami Design District Bookable via: https://www.ahanayoga.com Miami Beach Botanical Garden Every week the Miami Beach Botanical Garden opens its tropical courtyard to a variety of wellness-focused events. Sessions include Tuesday morning and Sunday evening Yoga in the Garden , as well as Sound-Bowl and Cacao meditations. In addition, the Garden now hosts Forest Bathing with a Neuroscientist , led by Dr Karina Del Punta, which guides participants through sensory walks designed to engage the brain and body via nature immersion. The Garden also offers a Japanese Tea Ceremony , a meditative ritual centered on presence and community. Each experience is open to the public, without hotel-stay requirements, and bookable via the Garden’s website. Best for: Outdoor yoga, forest bathing, tea ceremony, and accessible mindfulness in nature. Location: Miami Beach Bookable via: https://www.mbgarden.org The Underline – Brickell Running beneath Miami’s Metrorail, The Underline has become a hub for community wellness. In partnership with Baptist Health , the nonprofit hosts free weekly yoga (starting November 1, 2025), running clubs, and strength classes in its Brickell Backyard section. Sessions are open to the public and attract locals of all levels, creating a community-driven alternative to gym culture. Best for: Free community yoga and outdoor movement. Location: Brickell Bookable via: https://www.theunderline.org Oleta River State Park – North Miami Beach For a restorative day in nature, Oleta River State Park is unbeatable. Florida’s largest urban park offers guided kayak and paddleboard eco-tours , allowing guests to explore mangroves, spot wildlife, and enjoy salt-air therapy within minutes of downtown. Many visitors treat it as a half-day wellness retreat — a mix of physical activity, nature immersion, and quiet reflection on the water. Best for: Nature therapy and active mindfulness. Location: North Miami Beach Bookable via: https://oletariveradventures.com/tours/ Centner Gables – Coral Gables Centner Gables, also known as the Gables Longevity Hub, is one of Miami’s more advanced wellness centers for tech-enhanced recovery and longevity care. The facility combines modern biohacking with restorative therapies in a clinical yet calm environment. Guests can book single sessions or memberships for floatation pods , infrared and ozone saunas , red-light therapy , cold plunge contrast baths , and IV nutrient infusions . The studio also features PEMF therapy (pulsed electromagnetic fields) and guided temperature contrast sessions designed to improve circulation and stress resilience. Best for: Biohacking, recovery, and tech-driven wellness. Location: Coral Gables Bookable via: https://coralgables.centnerwellness.com Patch of Heaven Sanctuary – Miami (Redland area) Set on more than 20 acres of subtropical forest in Miami’s Redland agricultural district, Patch of Heaven Sanctuary blends environmental preservation with mindful, nature-based wellness. The property offers guided forest-bathing walks , mindfulness-in-nature workshops , and volunteer days focused on ecological restoration. Visitors can book day passes or attend curated events that combine conservation with inner calm—such as meditative garden walks, wildlife observation, and reflective journaling sessions. The sanctuary’s mission centers on biophilia—reconnecting humans with nature as a form of therapy. It also partners with cultural and environmental organizations to host sound baths, art residencies, and seasonal retreats. With its orchid houses, butterfly garden, and shaded hammocks, this is one of Miami’s few places where “wellness” and environmental stewardship are truly one and the same. Best for: Forest bathing, eco-mindfulness, and nature therapy. Location: Miami (Redland area, near Homestead) Bookable via: https://patchofheavensanctuary.org

Miami has evolved far beyond its reputation for nightlife and design; today, it stands as one of America’s leading destinations for wellness travel. The city’s shoreline is home to a new generation of luxury wellness resorts that combine clinical precision, cultural therapies, and oceanfront calm. From medical-grade hydrotherapy circuits to organic spa rituals inspired by global traditions , Miami’s best resorts now rival the world’s top wellness destinations. Whether travelers are drawn by fitness, longevity, or simply the restorative rhythm of the sea, this coastline offers a wonderful balance. Together, they form the foundation of Miami’s wellness identity — one that feels both deeply local and globally relevant. Carillon Miami Wellness Resort (Miami Beach) Carillon Miami Wellness Resort (Miami Beach) Carillon Miami Wellness Resort sets the standard for evidence-based wellness in Florida. Built on the idea that health, recovery, and relaxation can coexist in one setting, it combines advanced medical diagnostics with spa tradition and mindful design. Guests can move through more than twenty touchless therapies — cryotherapy, infrared saunas, halotherapy, red-light treatments, and vibro-acoustic sound beds — each designed to reset the body’s systems without manual contact. These sessions are part of the resort’s Touchless Wellness Circuit , one of the most comprehensive in the U.S., merging modern biohacking with restorative care. The Thermal Therapy Experience is a self-guided hydrothermal circuit modeled after European spa culture. It includes a Finnish sauna, herbal laconium, crystal steam room, experience showers, an ice igloo, and cold foot baths. The igloo — the only one of its kind in Miami — alternates bursts of arctic air and chromotherapy lighting, allowing the body to transition between heat and cold while stimulating circulation and energy balance. Each zone encourages a deliberate pause, emphasizing recovery as an active process rather than an indulgence. Carillon’s Wellness Health Center deepens the clinical dimension of the resort. The center brings together functional-medicine doctors, chiropractors, acupuncturists, physical therapists, and mental-health practitioners who design personalized programs for pain management, longevity, hormone balance, and sleep improvement. The resort’s Health Retreats offer immersive stays that run from three to ten days, focused on specific outcomes: metabolic reset, stress and sleep recovery, men’s vitality, and women’s hormonal balance. Each program combines nutritional guidance, advanced therapies, mindfulness coaching, and physician-supervised treatments. The approach merges Eastern, Western, and aesthetic medicine—bridging acupuncture and Ayurveda with modern integrative care. Guests often describe these retreats as an “intervention in lifestyle,” designed to create sustainable change long after check-out. Signature spa treatments include the Quartz Massage , performed on a bed of heated quartz crystals that contour the body and enhance lymphatic flow, as well as neuromuscular, lymphatic, and myofascial therapies. Post-treatment, guests are encouraged to linger in the relaxation lounge infused with herbal aromas or continue their day with oceanfront yoga and guided breathwork sessions on the sand. Located on the quieter northern stretch of Miami Beach, Carillon is easily accessible from both Miami International and Fort Lauderdale airports, yet it feels intentionally removed from the city’s nightlife. Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach (Sunny Isles / Greater Miami) Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach (Sunny Isles / Greater Miami) Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach presents an elevated model of wellness within a luxury resort context. Accredited by Forbes Travel Guide as a Five-Star property for both hotel and spa for more than a decade, it delivers a seamless integration of high-end hospitality and full-spectrum wellness programming. Inside its 20,000-square-foot spa sanctuary, the design—Himalayan salt-accented walls, arctic ice fountains, Roman-style waterfall features and expansive lounges—signals that this is not a standard resort spa. Its treatment menu spans the classic (deep-tissue massage, hydrotherapy baths) and the cutting edge: Swissline cellular-therapy facials, Cryo Shock body-sculpting treatments, Ayurvedic rituals, and chakra-balancing sessions. Guests moving through the spa experience may begin in the salt-wall steam room, progress to a cold-immersion foot bath, visit the arctic ice fountain, and finish with a bespoke biotech facial. The resort also supports wellness through movement and environment: ocean-front pools, cabana-based quiet zones, and fitness classes curated alongside spa sessions. Acqualina’s wellness proposition is built around three principles— luxury , innovation , and tranquility . The resort sits on the northern stretch of Sunny Isles Beach, offering Atlantic-view calm that supports recovery. This property will appeal to travelers who expect not just a massage, but a broader wellness ecosystem: advanced treatments, purpose-built space, and beachside serenity. For best access to advanced treatments, reserve at least 10 days in advance; request a room with full ocean view and book a spa-cabana as part of your stay to extend the wellness experience from treatment room to day-bed. 1 Hotel South Beach (with its Bamford Wellness Spa) 1 Hotel South Beach (with its Bamford Wellness Spa) 1 Hotel South Beach approaches wellness as a complete lifestyle rather than an amenity. As the first U.S. outpost of the British-born Bamford Wellness Spa , it anchors the hotel’s eco-luxury identity in sustainability and holistic care. The spa’s treatments are guided by founder Carole Bamford’s philosophy of living in harmony with nature—using organic, plant-based formulations that are certified to the highest clean-beauty standards. Signature experiences such as the B Nourish Facial and B Relax Massage incorporate botanical oils, gentle aromatherapy, and slow rhythmic techniques designed to support the parasympathetic nervous system. Each treatment concludes with a guided breath ritual, aligning with Bamford’s holistic view of mind-body renewal. The wellness footprint extends well beyond the spa. Guests can train at Anatomy , a hybrid fitness concept combining group movement, strength conditioning, and recovery therapies under one roof. Classes often integrate infrared heat, mobility training, and restorative yoga for balance. The hotel recently expanded its partnership network to include Move Mindfully with Alo Wellness Club , offering sunrise yoga on the rooftop deck, Pilates reformer sessions, and mindfulness workshops led by Alo’s certified instructors. Together, these offerings create a multi-layered wellness ecosystem where fitness, rest, and nutrition coexist within the same architectural flow. Every detail of the hotel reinforces its environmental ethos: reclaimed wood interiors, living green walls, ocean-view rooms with water filtration and organic cotton linens. This is a retreat that feels modern, grounded, and restorative - perfect for travelers who want eco-credentialed luxury with a full wellness stack under one roof. Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club (Surfside, just north of Miami Beach) Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club (Surfside, just north of Miami Beach) Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club delivers a rare balance of historical grandeur and clinical precision in wellness. Built from the bones of a 1930s seaside members’ club, it now houses one of Miami’s most sophisticated spa programs—a calm, light-filled space overlooking the Atlantic, designed for deep rest and measurable results. The Spa & Wellness Center features eucalyptus steam rooms, sensory showers, and a full hydrotherapy suite. Its signature treatments include Inner Harmony , a restorative massage that integrates aromatherapy and guided breathing, and Recovery & Rescue , which uses advanced percussion and cryotherapy tools to relieve muscle tension. The spa’s Kobido Japanese Facial , performed by certified practitioners, is one of Miami’s only authentic versions of this ancient technique, focusing on facial sculpting and lymphatic drainage. Guests can extend recovery through the Body Slimmer technology treatment—using pressure and light therapy to support circulation and toning—or transition outdoors to the Yoga and Wellness Experiences program, which includes sunrise yoga, meditation, and Pilates overlooking the ocean. The resort also welcomes a rotation of guest healers and integrative-care experts who lead bespoke workshops and private sessions. Every product used—from Biologique Recherche to Susanne Kaufmann and Pharmos Natur —is chosen for its bio-active purity and low environmental impact. Set within the quiet enclave of Surfside , the hotel feels far removed from Miami’s nightlife despite being minutes from Bal Harbour’s restaurants and boutiques. It is a place where technology and touch coexist, and wellness unfolds as both art and architecture. the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort (Bal Harbour, just north of Miami Beach) The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort (Bal Harbour, just north of Miami Beach) Less than a ten-minute drive north of Miami Beach, the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort defines extravagance in wellness through its 14,000-square-foot spa sanctuary. The hotel’s wellness facilities include the celebrated Remède Spa, whose interiors feature heated marble floors, plush cashmere wraps and design flourishes that reflect the brand’s heritage of elegance and refinement. This spa offers bespoke treatments such as the 24-Karat Gold Wrap —a body journey beginning with golden sugar exfoliation, a scalp massage while the mask warms and purifies the skin, and concluding with a hydro-massage that leaves the body luminous and hydrated. The treatment philosophy here leans into indulgence: the focus is restoration and radiance rather than performance or high-intensity wellness. In addition to body treatments, the spa menu includes a full range of facials, custom massages and couples’ experiences. It also offers a Vichy rain-shower room, private spa cabanas by the pool, and access to the hotel’s Athletic Club outfitted with high-end equipment and ocean-view training space. Centered across from Bal Harbour Shops and minutes from the beach, this resort gives guests the feeling that wellness is part of a broader luxury escape. Here, wellness means deluxe finishes, professional discretion, and a seamless transition from treatment to lounge to ocean-view rest. For travelers who want the “splurge” version of wellness—a day cupped by glamour, soft textures and high-touch service—this resort delivers on the promise.

Not every great spa requires a week-long retreat. Day spas are built for locals, city travelers, and anyone who needs a reset without checking into a resort. This year, World Spa Awards named WORLD SPA in New York as the World’s Best Day Spa 2025 . Luxurious spa design The shortlist shows how this category is evolving: from urban bathhouses to boutique sanctuaries around the world. 1. WORLD SPA — New York, USA (Winner) WORLD SPA in Brooklyn offers a three-floor, 50,000-square-foot space with thermal baths, hammams, saunas, and treatment rooms. Guests can move between Russian banyas, Turkish hammams, Japanese onsens, and infrared saunas in one visit. It’s a spa designed for urban life—providing cultural traditions from across the globe without leaving New York. 2. Casa Aire Wellness Club & Spa — Dubai (Nominee) Casa Aire positions itself as a social wellness hub in Dubai, offering day-access memberships, group classes, and treatments. With a blend of high-tech therapies and relaxation spaces, it caters to both residents and short-term visitors who want consistent, approachable wellness without a resort commitment. 3. Champneys Henlow — England (Nominee) Champneys Henlow is part of the UK’s best-known spa group, but its day programs keep it accessible. Treatments range from classic facials to specialist therapies, while facilities include pools, hydro areas, and fitness options. For many in England, Champneys represents an easy entry into spa culture. 4. Nature’s Energy Day Spa & Bathhouse – Glebe, Australia (Nominee) This Sydney-based spa emphasizes bathhouse rituals and energy-focused therapies. Guests book short sessions in mineral pools, steam rooms, and saunas, paired with massage or reiki. Its local popularity comes from creating a community-centered place to recharge in the middle of city life. 5. Spring Spa Uluwatu — Indonesia (Nominee) Spring Spa brings a Balinese aesthetic to modern spa culture. Known for its open-air design, gentle treatments, and accessible pricing, it has become a favorite for both travelers and locals in Uluwatu. The nomination reflects how day spas can be just as design-conscious and restorative as resort spas. 6. Terre Paisible Medical Rejuvenation and Spa — South Africa (Nominee) Terre Paisible blends spa treatments with medical rejuvenation services. Its programs include dermatological care, aesthetic medicine, and classic relaxation therapies, all available to day visitors. The combination places it at the crossroads of health clinic and spa, expanding what a day spa can offer. The Day Spa category is about accessibility . WORLD SPA’s win shows how urban centers are building large-scale, multicultural spa experiences for people who can’t always escape to resorts. The nominees—from Sydney bathhouses to Balinese hideaways—demonstrate that day spas aren’t a compromise. They’re evolving into serious wellness spaces for everyday life . The takeaway is simple: if you can’t carve out a week for wellness, a day spa can deliver meaningful restoration—and in many cities, the options are now world-class.

We explore men that are shifting the compass of care, recovery, and resilience. Through breath, biohacking, movement, mindset, and social renewal, they show us how wellness can be conscious, connective, and courageous. Andrew Huberman — Neuroscientist & Host, Huberman Lab “It’s very hard to control the mind with the mind — so when your mind isn’t where you want it to be, look to the body to shift the brain.” Andrew Huberman — Neuroscientist & Host, Huberman Lab Huberman reminds us that healing is not always cognitive — it often begins with breath, light, posture, and the nervous system. His protocols are invitations: tinker with your wiring, and calm can follow. Recent spotlight: His newsletter on “Using Light for Health” emphasizes how morning sunlight can outpace even supplements in impact. Website : hubermanlab.com Social: @hubermanlab Dr. Matthew Walker — Sleep Scientist & Author “Sleep is more than a pillar; it is the foundation on which the other health bastions sit.” Dr. Matthew Walker — Sleep Scientist & Author Walker reframes rest as active restoration. For those optimizing diet, training, or ritual, he teaches this: no other protocol works well when sleep is broken. Recent spotlight: His TED Talk “ Sleep is your superpower ” is a modern classic in health media. Website : sleepdiplomat.com Social: @ drmattwalker Rich Roll — Ultraendurance Athlete & Plant-Based Advocate “I’m not against comfort — I just refuse to be run by it.” Rich Roll — Ultraendurance Athlete & Plant-Based Advocate Roll’s trajectory teaches us grit and surrender in balance. His message: pushing boundaries is fine — so long as we honor recovery, inner listening, and humility along the way. Recent spotlight: His podcast The Rich Roll Podcast elevates thinking, embodiment, and longevity across voice, guest, and topic. Website : richroll.com Social: @richroll Wim Hof — Breath & Cold Therapy Pioneer “The cold is my friend; it teaches me presence.” Wim Hof — Breath & Cold Therapy Pioneer Hof’s work is elemental: ice and breath as portals into resilience. For readers curious in simple but potent hacks, he offers a model of small stressors delivering large adaptation. Recent spotlight: Widely featured in National Geographic , New York Times , and physiology documentaries. Website : wimhofmethod.com Social: @iceman_hof Jay Shetty — Mindfulness Teacher & Author “We don’t realize how our thinking creates our experience until we shift the lens.” Jay Shetty — Mindfulness Teacher & Author Shetty’s voice offers patients, poets, and professionals a map to see differently — seeing mindset not as fluff but a frame that can expand or constrict experience. Recent spotlight: His book Think Like a Monk and content reach put him among the most shared voices in wellness. Website : jayshetty.me Social: @jayshetty Jonathan Leary — Founder, Remedy Place “Self-care without human connection is just scheduling; it isn’t living.” Jonathan Leary — Founder, Remedy Place Leary coined “social self-care” — the idea that wellness must be relational, not isolated. Through his wellness club, he builds spaces where care meets community. Recent spotlight: Featured in Forbes , Vogue , Business Insider , Fast Company , Financial Times . Website: drjonathanleary.com Social : @ drjonathanleary Dr. Mark Hyman — Functional Medicine Pioneer “Food is not just calories; it's a conversation with your body.” Dr. Mark Hyman — Functional Medicine Pioneer Hyman encourages people to see nutrition as language — what we eat becomes what we feel, fight, heal, and become. Recent spotlight: Regular contributor to The New York Times , TIME , and multiple media appearances. Website : drhyman.com Social: @ drmarkhyman Dave Asprey — Founder, Bulletproof, Biohacking Icon “Upgrade your system — not just your lifestyle.” Dave Asprey — Founder, Bulletproof, Biohacking Icon Asprey’s ethos is optimization — not vanity. He encourages readers to see their physiology as craftable, not shackled. Recent spotlight: Featured in The Times and The Science Bros Transforming Men's Health and Wellness . Website : daveasprey.com Social: @ dave.asprey Ido Portal — Movement Philosopher & Teacher “Movement is language; your body is telling you stories.” Ido Portal — Movement Philosopher & Teacher Portal invites readers to see movement not as performance but narrative — how we move reveals where we are stuck, connected, or alive. Recent spotlight: Features in movement culture, fitness media, and body culture writing. Website : idoportal.com Social: @ portal.ido Yolo Akili Robinson — Mental Health & Wellness Activist “Healing invitation is not just individual — it’s communal.” Yolo Akili Robinson — Mental Health & Wellness Activist Robinson’s care work, especially with BEAM (Black Emotional & Mental Health), reframes masculinity and healing as justice work. Recent spotlight: Featured in Verywell Mind . Website : https://yoloakili.com Social: @yoloakili Jean Titus — Fitness Icon (“Ripped Grandpa”) & Wellness Mentor “Discipline is the compound interest of longevity.” Jean Titus — Fitness Icon (“Ripped Grandpa”) & Wellness Mentor Titus teaches readers that age is a continuum — strength, recovery, and consistency remain possible. His cultural presence disrupts ageist narratives. Recent spotlight: Featured in Men’s Health , Muscle & Fitness , and viral wellness press. Website : unlockmyunlimited.com Social: @ titusunlimited Peter Attia — Longevity Physician & Author “We don’t just want to live longer — we want to live better for longer.” Peter Attia — Longevity Physician & Author Attia bridges science and practice, redefining longevity as healthspan , not simply years added. Through his work in preventive medicine, exercise physiology, and metabolic health, he invites readers to train for their future selves — not just their reflection today. Recent spotlight: His book Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity and podcast The Peter Attia Drive have made him one of the most trusted voices in evidence-based wellness. Website : peterattiamd.com Social: @peterattiamd Bryan Johnson — Tech Entrepreneur & Blueprint Founder “You can’t manage what you don’t measure.” Bryan Johnson — Tech Entrepreneur & Blueprint Founder Johnson turns wellness into an experiment in optimization. Through his Blueprint protocol — a system tracking diet, sleep, biomarkers, and behavior — he challenges the boundaries between biology and technology. His approach may be extreme, but it sparks a vital question: how intentional can we be about aging? Recent spotlight: Featured in GQ , Time , and Bloomberg for his age-reversal experiment and data-driven approach to health. Website : bryanjohnson.com Social: @bryanjohnson_

Last winter, after a particularly grueling week of back-to-back business meetings and travel, I found myself drawn to the steaming waters of my neighbor's hot tub. What started as a casual conversation over the fence became an evening of pure restoration. The combination of warm water and gentle massage jets melted away tension I hadn't even realized I was carrying. I discovered firsthand the healing benefits of hydrotherapy at home.  Using water for its restorative abilities is not a new concept, though. Several different cultures throughout time have used various forms of hydrotherapy to heal the body. Learn more about the benefits of hydrotherapy below.  The Science Behind Hydrotherapy Hydrotherapy is a key spa healing technique  that has evolved from the Roman baths of antiquity to modern spa systems that transforms ordinary homes into personal wellness sanctuaries. Science can reveal why the practice delivers such profound results: warm water dilates blood vessels, enhancing circulation and delivering oxygen-rich blood to tired muscles. Meanwhile, water’s buoyancy reduces joint compression, offering immediate relief for people managing chronic pain or recovering from physical exertion. The Healing Benefits of Home Hydrotherapy Home-based hydrotherapy offers customizable experiences that rival professional spa treatments and numerous wellness benefits for optimal health: Improved Sleep Hydrotherapy plays a significant role in improving sleep quality  so your body can rest and recover. When you immerse yourself in warm water, your body temperature rises. However, when your body temperature cools down after the session, it signals to your body that it’s time to rest.  This natural temperature regulation process helps you fall asleep faster and promotes deeper, more restorative sleep cycles. Higher Energy Levels and Recovery Higher energy levels are another notable benefit of hydrotherapy. Alternating between warm and cool water stimulates blood circulation and oxygen flow throughout the body. This process delivers essential nutrients to your muscles and organs, fighting fatigue and boosting overall vitality. Contrast baths , where you immerse yourself in hot water for three to four minutes then switch to a bath with cold water for up to one minute can stimulate this signaling for the body. Enhanced circulation can also promote quicker recovery from physical exertion, leaving you recharged for daily activities. Elevated Mood and Reduce Inflammation Warm water has a calming effect. It soothes tense muscles; encourages the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals; and reduces stress hormones such as cortisol. The momentary escape that hydrotherapy provides can significantly reduce anxiety and leave you feeling more emotionally balanced. For example, foot baths  are an excellent form of hydrotherapy that focuses on tension relief to reduce stress. Adding Epsom salt to a warm foot bath will exfoliate while improving blood flow circulation, which can even help to reduce inflammation as well. Enhanced Focus and Mindful Bathing Many practitioners of hydrotherapy report improved mental clarity and enhanced emotional resilience—benefits that compound with consistent practice. The improved blood flow that results from water immersion brings more oxygen and nutrients to the brain, which can lead to increased alertness and cognitive function. Additionally, the meditative aspect of soaking in water creates a tranquil environment to clear your mind, making it easier for you to tackle daily tasks. Many different cultures practices mindful bathing with different techniques such as oat baths , milk baths, and more. Consider including more mindful and meditative bathing into your routine to improve your daily focus.  How To Incorporate Hydrotherapy at Home Bringing the benefits of hydrotherapy into your home can be simple. Although a backyard hot tub is ideal, you can also start by simply taking regular warm baths; soaking in the warm water eases muscle tension and promotes relaxation. Adding Epsom salts or an essential oil such as lavender or eucalyptus can further enhance the therapeutic experience. Consider investing in a whirlpool or portable jet system for a spa-like experience. For a more invigorating approach, try alternating between warm and cold showers to stimulate circulation and energize the body. Foot baths are another excellent option—soak your feet in warm water with a few drops of essential oil to relieve stress and improve circulation. Harnessing the restorative power of hydrotherapy right in the comfort of your own home can profoundly affect your quality of life. The path to better wellness doesn't require exotic destinations or expensive treatments—sometimes, the most transformative healing happens right in your own backyard or home.

Editor’s Note Writer Isola Chambers examines the Italian circolo as both a social and cultural tradition — a legacy of cooperative life that still anchors towns in ordinary togetherness. What began as a workers’ initiative has become a framework for belonging, where community is sustained not by events or ideals, but by simple continuity. Co-Op Exterior. Photo credit: Isola Chambers It’s a damp autumn evening in Bereguardo, Pavia, and the circolo isn’t trying to impress anyone. The building is plain and rather ugly; the paint faded and yellow, the door propped open by a folding chair. A few plastic tables are scattered outside under hopelessly unflattering fluorescent lights. Inside, the furniture is slightly more dignified: wooden tables, heavy chairs, a modest bar. Posters hang on the walls like old repeated stories, sun-bleached and with the corners torn. Tonight there is a soccer match, and the place is full. Those uninterested in the game have drifted outside, or to the corners of the room, where scopa games unfold in a familiar rhythm. Someone is drinking wine, another a small beer. Most are just sitting; some alone, some in twos or threes. They occupy the space without hurry or expectation. A beer costs two and a half euros. No one seems to be counting. A group of kids moves between inside and out, orbiting around the adults like small planets, never resting anywhere for too long. It’s unclear which group they “belong” to, but they receive comments — corrections, compliments, jokes — or affectionate pats, from nearly everyone they pass. Men and women, in their twenties, fifties, eighties. Fit, frail, quick, slow. They are here — not because of shared hobbies, not because someone planned it, but because it’s Thursday and this is what happens on Thursday. I think this might be what belonging looks like when it isn’t curated. What Are Circoli and Cooperativas? Co-Op Sign at Night. Photo credit: Isola Chambers Across Italy, circoli and cooperativas function as informal neighbourhood clubs. Some are secular, others tied to Catholic or political associations. Many were once (and in some cases still are) cooperative ventures owned collectively by members. They are inexpensive, open, and remarkably unpretentious. A few euros gets you a drink; conversation costs nothing. It’s not the kind of intense, deliberate conversation you have at a dinner table, but a softer form: ambient, habitual. A nod at the bar. A comment tossed over a card table. The game is of supreme importance. Even so, the company is the point. Circoli thrive in small towns and working-class neighbourhoods. But they also exist in the corners of big cities, tucked between apartment blocks and often invisible to anyone who isn’t looking for them. From Workers’ Cooperatives to Circoli, A Brief History The circoli and cooperativas that dot Italy’s towns have deep roots in the country’s social fabric. Their story begins in the late 19th century, in a period of political ferment and economic hardship. Early cooperatives were born out of labor struggles, rural mutual aid associations, and socialist and Catholic movements that sought to give workers collective power over their lives. One of the most widespread forms was the cooperativa di consumo, or consumption cooperative, owned and managed by local residents themselves. These were collective grocery or supply stores, founded so working families could access affordable goods without relying on private merchants. Each member held a share and a vote, and profits were reinvested into the community rather than distributed to outside owners. Over time, many evolved beyond commerce into community gathering points, spaces for cards, meals, and conversation, keeping their cooperative spirit even as their daily activities changed. The Cooperativa di Consumo fra Lavoratori del Comune di Bereguardo, founded in 1945, grew out of this same tradition and began as a postwar workers’ cooperative providing basic goods to local families. Decades later, as small-scale retail faded and social needs shifted, it adapted into what it is today: a circolo that serves as Bereguardo’s communal living room. Officially, it’s still classified as a “bar without a kitchen.” Unofficially, it’s much more than that. Rituals, Resilience, and the Act of Showing Up Men watching a game at the circolo. Photo credit: Isola Chambers A circolo isn’t really about activity. It’s about rhythm. There’s scopa and briscola, a small TV above the door playing the match, and the seemingly endless clinking of espresso cups. These rituals matter precisely because they are ordinary. Games provide structure: someone shuffles the deck, someone else complains, someone else deals again. It’s the same every night. It’s this sameness that allows people to keep showing up. Piero is one of the loudest of the regular bunch. He doesn’t talk; he shouts. But always with a smile. He teases and he lets himself be teased back. His wife has been sick for years, and during the day he is at home caring for her. He spends his evenings at the circolo, and tonight he tells me, “Qui mi sento a casa, non penso alle cose brutte. Mi fa sentire come se tutto fosse più leggero.” Here I feel at home. I don’t think about the bad things. This place makes me feel like everything is lighter. The sense of belonging here isn’t loud or sentimental. It’s built on repetition, on chairs pulled up without asking. People argue over politics, over who’s cheating at cards, over the team lineup. The next day, they sit down at the same table. Sometimes, the gestures of care are quieter still. On big match nights like tonight, someone will cook; a huge pot of risotto, stirred slowly in the back and ladled into plastic bowls for anyone who wants it. Forks and napkins are passed around. I turn to my partner and ask how we pay for this. The elderly woman next to us overhears and jumps in: “Si paga con la voglia di mangiare.” You pay with the desire to eat. The food isn’t for sale. It’s just there, as everything else here is: shared freely and without ceremony. These spaces endure not because of their history or their function, but because of these habits of generosity. These are the small gestures that keep a community stitched together. This offering is increasingly rare in contemporary urban life: casual, unearned belonging. Adapting to a Changing World Like many communal third spaces, circoli are vulnerable. Rising rents, shifting leisure habits, and an aging membership threaten their continuity. In some towns, circoli have closed. In others, they’ve adapted. Some host cultural programming such as music nights, language exchanges, political discussions, or book readings. Others manage to remain resolutely the same: cards, coffee, soccer. Their strength lies in their ability to hold both tradition and change at once. A new generation might not come as automatically as before, but those who do often find an unexpected refuge. They endure not because they’re extraordinary, but because they offer the quiet, dependable togetherness that the rest of the world seems to be forgetting. The Uncurated Circle The night has worn on. Someone notices that I am leaning against the wall and wordlessly pulls a chair across the room and sets it in front of me. She makes eye contact only for a moment, with no seeming desire or expectation of gratitude or reciprocation. Someone else stands to smoke, prompting his neighbour to shout “Bravo, vai fouri a fumare che se vai fouri segniamo!” Good, go outside for a smoke. If you go outside we’ll manage to score. More ritual. The match reaches its final minutes. A palm slaps a table in frustration. A goal that could have been. Others roll their eyes and return to their game. The kids have migrated to the edge of the parking lot. It isn’t dramatic. It isn’t orchestrated. But it is community: messy, habitual, and quietly vital. About the author: Isola Chambers is a writer and editor based in Milan, working at the intersections of memory, culture, decolonization, and resistance.

Late last month, the World Spa Awards announced this year’s winners. Lanserhof Tegernsee (Germany) was named World’s Best Medical Spa 2025 , with a global slate of nominees that shows where medical wellness is headed: evidence-based programs, digestive and metabolic health, and destination environments designed for recovery. Winner 1) Lanserhof Tegernsee — Germany (Winner) Lanserhof blends targeted fasting, diagnostics, and interdisciplinary medical oversight with a calm alpine setting. The brand’s philosophy centers on prevention and gut/digestive health as foundations for energy, metabolism, and overall longevity. Photo credit: Lanserhof Tegernsee © Enrico Costantini Global Nominees (Alphabetical) Bagni di Pisa Palace & Thermal Spa — Italy Historic thermal waters paired with modern, preventative programs; a bridge between classic European balneotherapy and medical wellness. Bagni di Pisa Palace & Thermal Spa Buchinger Wilhelmi Lake Constance — Germany Renowned for medically supervised fasting with psychological support, movement, and nutrition in a clinical-residential format. Chenot Palace Gabala — Azerbaijan Part of the Chenot network; detox, stress modulation, and anti-aging protocols that merge Eastern philosophies and Western diagnostics. Our glossary includes entries such as Lymphatic Drainage, Sauna, and Water Therapy — practices that have evolved from ancient purification methods to modern longevity tools. Visit the Wellness Glossary to learn more. Clinique La Prairie — Switzerland Lake Geneva icon known for cellular therapy, longevity medicine, and hospital-grade diagnostics within luxury hospitality. Photo credit: Clinique La Prairie   Edem Resort Medical & Spa — Ukraine A lakeside medical-spa setting offering diagnostics, integrative therapies, and structured wellness programs. Edem Resort Medical & Spa Kurotel – Longevity Medical Center & Spa — Brazil Lifestyle-medicine model: clinical oversight, nutrition, movement, and mental health in a retreat format; Latin American standard-bearer. MAYRLIFE Altaussee — Austria Mayr-method digestive reset with individualized plans focused on gut rest, detoxification, and metabolism. Mount Med Resort — Austria Medically supervised programs in a retreat environment; part of Austria’s strong tradition in health resorts. Photo credit: Mount Med Resort, Austria Palazzo Fiuggi — Italy Diagnostics, anti-aging and nutrition science in a historic Italian setting; also named World’s Best Wellness Retreat 2025 . Photo credit: Palazzo Fiuggi SHA — Spain Integrative medicine and nutrition-forward protocols with a strong longevity focus; a bellwether for programmatic wellness. Photo credit: SHA Spain Terre Paisible Medical Rejuvenation & Spa — South Africa A newer entrant bringing medical-grade rejuvenation to Southern Africa’s wellness landscape. Photo credit: Terra Paisible The Original FX Mayr — Austria Pioneer of the Mayr school emphasizing digestive rest and structured diagnostics; also shortlisted in the World’s Best Longevity Programme 2025 category. VILLA EDEN – The Private Retreat — Italy Boutique, medically oriented retreat with targeted regeneration programs. VILLA EDEN - The Private Retreat VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth — Austria Clinic-hotel applying Mayr medicine with lakefront diagnostics and individualized nutrition therapy. Why this year matters Across the category, the through-line is integration : targeted diagnostics, digestive and metabolic reset (Lanserhof/Mayr clinics), and multi-disciplinary longevity programs (Kurotel, SHA), delivered in environments that support mental and physical recovery. The category has widened geographically too (Azerbaijan, South Africa, Brazil, Ukraine), signaling demand beyond traditional European hubs.

It started with curiosity. I’d heard of the trend—floating in a pod filled with warm water and Epsom salt, sealed from light and the usual noise of the outside world. My mind, like many others, often races between responsibilities and rhythms. So on a quiet weekend after a 5K walk, I decided to try something unfamiliar: stillness. The Float pod at Pause in El Segundo, CA The float therapy studio called Pause in El Segundo, California, was clean, modern, and softly lit. They offered other services—LED light beds, cold plunges, saunas—but I was there for the float. I was guided through the space and into a private pod room. The pod itself was futuristic: glowing blue water, a gentle current of warmth, and the light mineral scent of Epsom salt—magnesium sulfate. The lid was optional, and I left it slightly open—enough to feel secure, but not closed in. Claustrophobia is real, and even a few seconds fully sealed inside was enough for me. After showering and selecting a soft meditation track, I slipped into the water wearing a swimsuit. Immediately, the dense salt held me up. My arms and legs floated effortlessly. At first, I was hyper-aware of everything—the shape of my thoughts, the tension in my jaw, the unfamiliar quiet. But then, the external world began to dissolve. The sensory input faded, and something inside started to open up. More Than a Spa: A Space for Thought, A Cultural Ritual Float therapy is often packaged as a wellness service, but it recalls something deeper—something more ancient. The deliberate withdrawal from external stimulation is a thread that runs through countless spiritual and cultural traditions. In Vipassana meditation, practitioners observe strict silence and bodily sensations over multiple days, turning attention inward to gain insight into the impermanent nature of the mind and body (Jain et al., 2023). In Native American vision quests, solitude and fasting in nature create space for transformation and personal clarity. And in yogic tradition, the fifth limb of Ashtanga yoga, pratyahara, describes the conscious withdrawal of the senses from the external world—considered a bridge between outer distraction and inner stillness (Iyengar, 1993). Tibetan dark retreats (Yangti Yoga)i take this even further: days or weeks spent in complete darkness to access deeper meditative states (Gyatso, 2002). Each of these practices shares something essential—not escape, but attention. Not retreat, but return. Ready for the 60-minute float at Pause Studio in El Segundo, CA Float therapy offers a physical container for these same impulses. Lying weightless in darkness, I wasn’t trying to meditate. But I entered something close to it. My mind began to clear, then wander, then sort through things I hadn’t consciously revisited in weeks. Thoughts rose. Regrets softened. Ideas appeared. I wasn’t trying to control the experience—and that, perhaps, was the point. What the Science Says Floatation-REST (Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy) has been studied by researchers for its effects on the nervous system, particularly in high-stress individuals. A 2018 study led by Feinstein et al. found that even a single one-hour session significantly reduced anxiety and improved mood. The float environment reduced muscle tension, increased body awareness, and supported mental stillness. Dr. Justin Feinstein, one of the leading figures in this research, has described float therapy as a “reset” for the nervous system—especially valuable for people stuck in chronic fight-or-flight states. Neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman has also discussed how sensory reduction enhances 'interoception' , the brain’s ability to perceive signals from within the body, which is often dulled in our distracted world. There’s also a physiological reason float therapy feels restorative: magnesium sulfate, or Epsom salt, is known to reduce inflammation, ease muscular pain, and support sleep (Swaminathan, 2003). The experience may feel intangible, but the science isn’t. After the Float After the float therapy at Pause Studio in El Segundo, CA At the end of the hour, a soft voice signaled the session was over. I emerged slowly, rinsed the salt from my skin, and sat still for a few moments. I didn’t feel euphoric or dramatically altered. I felt quieter. More in rhythm with myself. That night, my sleep came easily and deeply. But more than that, something had shifted. I had remembered what it feels like to be alone with my thoughts, uninterrupted. Float therapy, though contemporary in its design, mirrors a universal human impulse. It offers a rare space to unplug without distraction or instruction. A soft container for reflection in a world of constant interruption. It doesn’t ask for performance—only presence. And in that hour of weightlessness, something unexpected happened: I didn’t float away—I floated inward. Global Float Therapy Destinations North America Pause Studio – Located in El Segundo, California, Pause Studio offers a modern approach to wellness with float therapy, LED beds, cold plunges, and sauna treatments in a thoughtfully designed space. Website : https://pausestudio.com True REST Float Spa – With over 40 locations across the U.S., True REST delivers consistent, clinically-informed float therapy services in specialized pods designed for complete sensory deprivation. Website : https://truerest.com Float Sixty – Based in Chicago (with other locations in the Midwest), Float Sixty merges contemporary design with evidence-based float therapy, catering to both first-timers and experienced floaters. Website : https://floatsixty.com Europe Floatworks – A pioneer in UK float therapy, Floatworks operates in London with beautifully curated spaces focused on relaxation, introspection, and nervous system recovery. Website : https://www.floatworks.com Float in the Forest – Nestled in the Forest of Dean, this center provides nature-adjacent float experiences in a tranquil rural environment, perfect for restorative practices. Website : https://floatintheforest.co.uk Asia Samahita Retreat – Located on Koh Samui, Thailand, Samahita integrates float therapy into science-backed wellness and yoga programs, emphasizing respiratory health, metabolic care, and mind-body integration. Website : https://samahitaretreat.com Africa Ubuntu Wellness Centre – Based in Cape Town, South Africa, Ubuntu offers floatation hydrotherapy within an integrative healing framework, rooted in South African and global wellness traditions. Website : https://www.ubuntuwellness.com Australia & Oceania City Cave Float & Wellness Centre – A fast-growing Australian franchise with dozens of locations, City Cave combines float therapy with massage and infrared sauna for comprehensive wellness care. Website : https://citycave.com.au Flow Retreat – Based in Daylesford, Victoria, Flow Retreat offers float therapy and allied treatments in a tranquil, boutique setting aimed at nervous system recalibration. Website : https://www.flowretreat.com.au References Feinstein, J. S., Khalsa, S. S., Yeh, H., Wohlrab, C., Simmons, W. K., Stein, M. B., & Paulus, M. P. (2018). Examining the short-term anxiolytic and antidepressant effect of Floatation-REST. PLOS ONE, 13(2), e0190292. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0190292 Iyengar, B. K. S. (1993). Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali . San Francisco: Thorsons. Gyatso, T. (2002). The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying. San Francisco: Harper SanFrancisco. Iyengar, B. K. S. (1993). Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. HarperCollins. Jain, N., Walsh, R., & Shapiro, S. (2023). The experiences of attending Vipassana meditation retreats: A qualitative study. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 30(1), 32–41. https://journals.lww.com/jpmh/fulltext/2023/01010/the_experiences_of_attending_vipassana_meditation.3.aspx Swaminathan, R. (2003). Magnesium metabolism and its disorders. The Clinical Biochemist Reviews, 24(2), 47–66. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1855626/

Los Angeles is known for its sunshine, but the city’s nights have their own rituals. When the day slows, Angelenos gather in museums, plazas, gardens, and even aquariums for experiences that balance culture with well-being. Sixth Street Bridge in Los Angeles, California From candlelit concerts and communal dance to immersive light walks and sound baths, LA by night offers more than entertainment — it’s where the city resets. 1. Jazz at LACMA On Friday evenings from April through November, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art turns its Smidt Welcome Plaza into an outdoor concert hall. The Jazz at LACMA series is free, family-friendly, and deeply woven into the city’s cultural life. With Chris Burden’s Urban Light installation glowing nearby, these evenings are equal parts art, music, and community wind-down. 2. Dance DTLA at the Music Center Photo credit: Will Tee Yang for The Music Center Every summer, Jerry Moss Plaza at the Music Center fills with thousands of Angelenos for Dance DTLA . Each Friday night spotlights a different style — Bollywood, salsa, disco, cumbia — with instructors leading the crowd through simple steps before the open dance floor begins. It’s movement as medicine: a free, communal ritual under the stars. 3. Walt Disney Concert Hall Evenings Gustavo Dudamel conducts Mahler's Symphony No. I at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Photo by Dustin Downing. Courtesy of LA Phil. Evening concerts at Walt Disney Concert Hall pair music with space: Frank Gehry’s iconic curves, acoustic perfection, and programs ranging from Mahler to experimental premieres. On select nights, visitors can also join Drinks in the Garden pre-concert gatherings. The ritual here isn’t just the music — it’s the collective hush when the lights dim and the orchestra begins. 4. DTLA Art Night DTLA ArtNight is a cultural gathering & art walk, organized monthly on first Thursdays, where over 30 galleries and businesses collaborate on a wide array of art and activations. It’s an urban reset: exploring creativity at your own pace, surrounded by community. 5. Aquarium of the Pacific: Night Dive Night Dive. Courtesy of the Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach In Long Beach, the Aquarium of the Pacific hosts Night Dive — after-hours evenings where exhibits stay open, music fills the halls, and the lighting shifts to evoke the ocean at night. The event is 18+ only, blending culture, science, and ambience. It’s nightlife, reimagined with sea turtles and jellyfish as companions. 6. Astra Lumina at South Coast Botanic Garden Every Fall, Astro Lumina transforms the South Coast Botanic Garden into a glowing nightwalk. Light projections, soundscapes, and installations guide visitors through an immersive journey that feels meditative as much as entertaining. Families, couples, and solo wanderers alike treat it as a slow stroll — a mindful ritual with the stars overhead and the garden aglow. 7. The Soundbath Center Tucked into East Hollywood, The Soundbath Center offers one of the city’s most consistent schedules of evening sound baths — sessions where crystal bowls, gongs, and chimes create vibrations designed to calm the nervous system. Recognized by the LA Times as one of the best in the city, it’s both accessible and transportive: a modern ritual of sound and stillness. Candlelight Concerts Los Angeles’ Candlelight series transforms historic venues into glowing sanctuaries of music. Performances range from classical quartets to film scores and tributes to artists like Adele or Joe Hisaishi, all set against a stage bathed in hundreds of flickering LED candles. Venues include Zipper Concert Hall downtown and Immanuel Presbyterian in Koreatown, turning each concert into a ritual of light and sound. More than entertainment, these evenings offer a collective pause — a chance to slow down, listen deeply, and let music become meditation.

I picked up the AG1 travel packets from Costco — small green sachets that promise to combine seventy-five vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and plant extracts in one drink. The price was steep enough to expect something beyond marketing. Photo credit: AG1 Official Website When mixed with cold water, the powder turns an opaque green. There isn’t much of a smell — but the taste is clear: pineapple first, vanilla second , with barely any bitterness. It’s smooth, easy to finish, and far lighter than most greens powders. The color looks like kale, but it doesn’t taste like it. What’s Inside AG1 lists four main complexes on its label: Vitamins and minerals — covering B-complex, C, E, zinc, magnesium, and selenium. These are aimed at supporting metabolism, immune health, and antioxidant function. Superfood blend — spirulina, chlorella, wheatgrass, and barley grass, which contribute chlorophyll and plant compounds. Adaptogens and botanicals — ashwagandha, rhodiola, and reishi mushroom, traditionally used to help the body manage stress. Probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes — Lactobacillus acidophilus , Bifidobacterium bifidum , inulin, bromelain, and papain, included for gut support and nutrient absorption. Per packet (based on AG1’s official data): 50 calories 6 g carbohydrates (2 g fiber) <1 g sugar 2 g protein NSF Certified for Sport , meaning it’s third-party tested for safety and contaminants. Intended Benefits AG1 is designed to act as a broad nutritional safety net . The company’s positioning is clear: one packet to simplify daily supplementation, support energy, digestion, and overall nutrient coverage. It’s not meant to replace food or targeted vitamins, but to fill small gaps. I didn’t notice any negative effects — no stomach discomfort, no aftertaste — which is more than can be said for most greens drinks (for me, anyway). If the goal is to deliver micronutrients and probiotics in a clean, digestible way, AG1 does that efficiently. Notable Users The brand often references Andrew Huberman (neuroscientist and podcast host), Allyson Felix (Olympian), and Lewis Hamilton (F1 champion) as part of its partner community. Their association helps position AG1 as a performance-level product rather than a detox fad. Verdict The pineapple-vanilla version makes AG1 approachable: mild, light, and easy to drink daily. It’s expensive, but credible — science-aligned, functional, balanced supplement that delivers what it claims: a clean, all-in-one micronutrient drink that fits neatly into the day.

If Downtown is where New York moves and Midtown is where it glows, Uptown is where it breathes. Elegant, leafy, and rich with art and music, Uptown Manhattan offers a slower rhythm that still feels distinctly New York. From the green stretches of Central Park to the stages of Lincoln Center, this part of the city celebrates culture, creativity, and calm — all within a few train stops of Midtown’s chaos. Visit Central Park Central Park is most definitely one of my favorite things about New York City! It is beautiful in both summer and winter months. There are tons of things to do here: Go Boating! Details here: The Loeb Boathouse   Check out the Belvedere Castle  located mid-park at 79th Visit the Central Park Zoo   Enjoy a live concert at SummerStage   Picnic or fly a kite at Sheep Meadow   Stroll through the 6-acre Conservatory (French, Italian and English) Garden   Watch 'Shakespeare in the Park' at the open-air Delacorte Theater   Go biking! Rentals are available and there are rules to follow Race miniature sail boats at Model Boat Pond , east side on 75th Enjoy a performance at the Lincoln Center Lincoln Center is the world's leading performing arts center and home to 11 resident arts organizations. From music, theater, dance, film, and so much more, their stages bring a tapestry of diverse artists—from across the globe—to New York City! Photo by Seth Hoffman  and Enric Domas  on Unsplash Spend the day at a museum! The Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET): The Met presents over 5,000 years of art from around the world for everyone to experience and enjoy. (Upper East) American Museum of Natural History : is all about human cultures, the natural world, and the universe! (Upper East) Guggenheim : An internationally renowned art museum, fantastic architectural design! (Upper West) A visit to NYC Enjoy a musical performance at the legendary Carnegie Hall Here is an opportunity to listen to extraordinary music and musicians on one of the three stages! Indulge in a guided tour  and visit the Rose museum. Located on the corner of 57th Street and Seventh Avenue, it is a national historic landmark that comprises three venues: Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage, Zankel Hall, and Weill Recital Hall. Additionally, Carnegie Hall also supports educational activities throughout the city and beyond through its Weill Music Institute. Go shopping OR take a break near Columbus Circle! 'The Shops at Columbus Circle'  is one of New York City’s most famous landmarks, drawing more than 16 million visitors per year, thanks to its world-famous restaurants, lounges, and 50-plus retail stores. It is in the center of everything so it is a great place to rest your legs, grab coffee or lunch, pack a basket for a Central Park picnic (there is a Whole Foods there!). Celebrating a VERY special occasion? You can always stop by Per Se , one of the most expensive restaurants in the country, right inside the mall. Wellness, Uptown Style Uptown wellness isn’t about exclusivity — it’s about pace. Morning jogs around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, yoga sessions in Central Park, and classical performances under the stars at Lincoln Center define a softer side of city life. From Exhale Spa on the Upper East Side to Pure Yoga and Le Botaniste cafés, Uptown has quietly become one of Manhattan’s most mindful neighborhoods — proof that the city’s calm can coexist with its energy. Travel Tip If you plan to explore multiple attractions, consider a New York Pass or Headout Pass — both offer access to over 100 sites and experiences across the city.

My family spent almost a decade in the New York City area, and I still visit every year — usually in spring when the city feels alive. There’s something magnetic about Downtown. It’s where every first-time visitor starts, but even after all these years, I still find new details — an old brick building turned art gallery, a ferry ride I hadn’t noticed before, or a café that makes me wish I lived there again. If you’re flying into the city, keep your camera ready — on clear days, the flight path into New York can be surprisingly scenic, offering an aerial glimpse of the skyline that never gets old. Arial view of New York City, taken from an airplane How to Explore New York is designed like a grid — streets run east–west, avenues north–south. Locals give directions by intersection (“Meet me at 37th and 6th”), which makes navigation surprisingly easy once you understand the pattern. To minimize travel time, break your visit into sections: Downtown, Midtown, and Uptown. Downtown covers a lot of ground — the Financial District, the Seaport, the 9/11 Memorial, and the southernmost tip of Manhattan. Each has its own character: part history, part resilience, and part pure New York ambition. Getting Around Subway Map of NY Yes, yellow cabs are a rite of passage, but the subway is still the fastest way to move through the city. Just pick up a refillable MetroCard and learn to distinguish the Uptown and Downtown trains. You’ll get the hang of it within a day. If you’re short on time, the Hop-On Hop-Off bus routes are also worth it — they cover all major attractions and let you decide how much you want to walk. Top Things to Do in Downtown NYC Freedom Tower / One World Observatory This is the best way to get a 360° view of the NYC skyline. The observatory is located on floors 100-102 of One World Trade Center, with exhibits & restaurants. The SkyPod™ Elevators climb 102 stories in 47 seconds. You need to buy tickets in advance  for both general admission, guided tours and restaurants. Make it a date night with this special treat ! 9/11 Memorial & Museum This memorial honors people killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 and February 26, 1993, recognizes the courage of those who survived, and salutes those who risked their lives to help others. The museum is open 6 days a week, buy your tickets here.     9/11 Memorial and Museum. Photo credit: Paul Sableman While you are there, do a quick exploration of the SeaGlass Carousel , a ride that gives you a feeling of underwater weightlessness! This is an activity for little kids, of course but parents are allowed to ride with their child. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Visit the Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island Immigration Museum . Ferry service to both Liberty and Ellis Island is the only way to get there. Most people choose to only see the statue and not go to the island at all but if you wish to go, plan 2-3 hours and know that the museum may close earlier. You need to buy separate tickets to get inside the pedestal but the trip up to the crown is closed since 2001. You can choose a cheaper, more reasonably priced ferry ride during the day or a sunset cruise to see the statue in the evening The Oculus This structure  represents the city’s strength and a beacon for resilience. It took about 12 years to create and is now a transportation hub with shopping and dining options. To see it, take the subway lines stopping at Fulton Street and Cortlandt Street or take the PATH to WTC. Oculus, NYC South Street Seaport After the destruction left behind during hurricane Sandy, this neighborhood  restored itself. You would love the energy here! It is only about a 15-minute walk from the New York Stock Exchange - A fun place to shop, dine and to meet people! Photo credits: South Street Seaport Things to do: Party at the Rooftop Pier 117 Visit IPIC, the Seaport spot for a full restaurant-and-movie theater experience Check out the Tom Fruin's plexiglass, and 'The Canvas' shopping space that highlights sustainable brands and the culinary experiences in the 'Tin Building 'by Jean-Georges Eat at TAGMO, Momofuku, Dante or Malibu Farm among others! Wall Street & the Fearless Girl New York City's Fearless Girl   has drawn countless tourists and is a symbol of the fight for gender equality. Wall Street is the business heart of NYC and visitors love to check out the New York Stock Exchange, banks and brokerage houses. Whenever they are available, you can also do a tour of the Federal Reserve . Photo credit of the raging bull and fearless girl: NPR.org  and AP SOHO, Little Italy & Chinatown An acronym for South of Houston Street (SOHO) is all about shopping, art galleries, architecture, luxury boutiques and independent designers! SOHO is a popular neighborhood, one that you must plan to visit. Check out the Museum of Ice-cream  if you can - You will need to reserve tickets but this is a multi-level sensory experience and you can eat as much ice-cream as you want! Just 15-20 minutes away from SOHO, you can get a cultural experience and also grab a bite in Little Italy or China Town. West Village is also known for its restaurants! A Small Wellness Moment Downtown’s pace is fast, but there are ways to slow it down. Take a ferry to QC NY Spa on Governors Island — it’s just minutes from the Financial District, yet it feels miles away. Thermal pools overlook the skyline, the air smells faintly of eucalyptus, and for a brief moment, the city seems to breathe with you. My Travel Tip If you have limited time, do a mix: history in the morning, harbor views in the afternoon, and the Seaport or SoHo at night. Downtown is best experienced on foot — wear comfortable shoes, take water, and don’t overplan. The beauty of New York is how easily the day rearranges itself.

Editor’s Note: In the Philippines, “merienda” refers to the mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack — a pause between meals that’s as much about rest and connection as it is about food. This story reflects on how that simple daily ritual continues to nourish community and spirit across generations. “Kain na! Luto na! Meryenda na tayo!”  Let’s eat! Time for merienda! My grandmother’s voice would echo throughout the whole house from the kitchen. Everyone, including me, my sister, cousins, aunts and uncles would go out of our rooms and follow the aroma of champorado  steaming and bubbling on the stove.  We’d find ourselves with bowls in hand, lined up patiently waiting our turns to scoop up some of that steaming chocolate rice porridge. It was the kind that clings to the spoon and carries the scent of roasted cacao — my favorite type of comfort ladled into a bowl, prepared with fresh local ingredients, made better with love and zero preservatives.  But… looking back, what I remember most vividly isn’t the taste of champorado that my grandma used to cook or whatever we ate for merienda back then.  It’s not that.  What stuck to me was actually how the day seemed to breathe differently when we sat down together. It was the laughter, the sigh of relief, the quiet companionship of us sharing food together.  It was the act of pausing.  I wasn’t able to appreciate it truly back then because I was just a little innocent kid, but now, as an adult with the whole world on his shoulders, merienda just feels different – in fact, God-given. A blessing. A Filipino tradition. Picture of a food park, located in Capital Town, Pampanga. It's a popular hang out spot for locals. A child walks down the pathway in his uniform after school. Photo credit: Gabriel Feliciano A tradition rooted in history Merienda was brought to the Philippines by the Spanish when they colonized the country. Since then, it has been the unofficial fourth meal of the day in the Philippines.  This tradition is also seen in other cultures particularly in Italy ( merenda ), Brazil ( lanche ), and in Latin America ( merendina ), each following a concept of enjoying light meals throughout the day to restore energy.  While not entirely a Filipino concept, the country has made it distinctly its own. Merienda in the Philippines even has its own culinary category and it’s become a cherished daily ritual woven into every corner of Filipino life. What’s merienda like in the Philippines? The variety of Filipino merienda  is endless—shaped by regional flavors, family traditions, and the country’s more than 7,000 islands, each with its own idea of the perfect snack. Some of the most popular choices include pandesal, taho, and kakanin for breakfast, while kwek-kwek, isaw, betamax, and other street foods dominate the afternoon scene. Merienda  also changes with the seasons. During the Christmas months, you’ll find puto bumbong and bibingka sold outside churches, while in summer, halo-halo and sweetened fruits take the spotlight. Year-round favorites like pancit canton, lumpiang togue, and siopao remain beloved staples across the country. When it comes to nutrition, there are no strict rules. Merienda  can be anything from sweetened fruits to grilled innards sold on the street. What truly matters is satisfaction—if it curbs your craving and delights your taste buds, it counts. Merienda Culture in Schools and Workplaces Photo shows two boxes of Mexican food, particularly quesadilla, nachos and shawarma to be shared by everyone in the office. Photo credit: Gabriel Feliciano, photo by John Paul From classrooms to offices, merienda has naturally found its place as a built-in break — a small but vital pause in the daily routine. Ask a hundred students what their favorite subject is, and I guarantee you more than half would probably jokingly say, “Snacks.”  While I’m writing this, I asked my little brother who is in 4th grade what he thinks about recess period in school and the 10-year old me couldn't agree more. “Sometimes I like recess more than class. It’s so fun. I get to see my friends from other classes and we just start telling stories while eating snacks.” In schools, snacks or recess as it’s more popularly known in schools has long been part of the rhythm of the day. The Department of Education supports snack breaks by implementing policies which ensure that students have access to safe, nutritious food during recess.  Beyond nutrition, though, this short break has become a moment of joy and connection, a time for students to share snacks, laugh, and recharge before heading back to class. It’s a small but meaningful pause woven into the school day, teaching even the youngest Filipinos the quiet art of slowing down. That simple joy continues into adulthood. In many workplaces, both public and private, merienda is part of the rhythm of the day as well, sometimes formally scheduled, sometimes informally observed between 3PM and 5PM. John Paul, a BPO employee for 5 years shared that:“Merienda brings a lot to us Filipinos not just the food but the bonding we have when eating snacks together. We get to talk about life and get comfortable with each other while enjoying the little time we have on breaks. This eases the stress or diverts our attention to other things “ Merienda boosts his energy and serves as a “chill” team bonding that gives them a better team vibe, he added. While I’m lucky to be working at home as a freelance writer, I still look forward to merienda. Around 3PM, I’d get up and instinctively look for something to eat, hungry or not — it’s been a ritual my body and mind have learned to expect. The Local Market at 3PM Picture of a street food stand with a variety of street foods including, kwek-kwek, isaw, fishball, kikiam and chicken balls. Photo credit: Gabriel Feliciano The best way to enjoy merienda, though, is to step outside and experience it with the community. At merienda hour, you’ll see Filipino life gently slow down. In local parks and markets, food stalls cluster under the shade of trees. Students, office workers, and government employees gather for a quick bite and a brief rest.  In the picture above, you’ll see a popular merienda destination in our city, Capital Town. This is how it looks on a normal Monday. It’s much more packed during weekends. While chatting with Ate May , a vendor selling kwek-kwek , isaw , and fishball , she shared how her small business has sustained her family for years — and why merienda means more than just food. “Even just a simple turon or kwek-kwek makes them (customers) happy. I see it. Even when they’re tired from work, they still chat and laugh while eating. It seems to lighten the load. It’s better than going to a restaurant, really.” “People are already used to it. Without merienda, it feels like something’s missing in their day. It’s not just the stomach that looks for it. It’s hard to go straight through work without a break,” she added. Ate May sees it every day, how even a simple turon or kwek-kwek can lift people’s spirits. And maybe that’s why the absence of merienda feels unthinkable. It’s not just about hunger, but about connection. Without it, the day loses one of its softest, most human moments, the kind that lightens both body and mind. A cultural exhale Here’s the thing… being Filipino isn’t easy.  For many of us, the weight of daily life is beyond heavy. I’m talking about the daily commute to work, the stress of paying bills while living on a minimum wage that barely covers basic needs, the constant noise of politics and the push-and-pull of surviving in a developing country. The cost of living rises while salaries stay the same. Add to that the long hours, traffic jams, and the exhaustion of trying to make ends meet, and  it’s no surprise that people are always looking for ways to breathe. Looking at it deeper, merienda is just one way Filipinos show how resilient they are. Despite being in the middle of hardship, stress, they still are able to make space and time for joy.  This, perhaps, is what merienda has been teaching us all along — to stop, even for a moment. To sit, to breathe, to remember that we are not just surviving, but living. When was the last time you did?  Gabriel Feliciano is a Filipino freelance writer and entrepreneur exploring the connections between culture, healing, and everyday wellness.

New York’s restaurant scene no longer sees “healthy” as a side note. Across boroughs and cuisines, chefs are reimagining vegetables, grains, and ancient cooking traditions through the lens of balance and design. Whether inspired by Ayurveda, the Mediterranean diet, or modern sustainability, these kitchens elevate wellness into something indulgent — colorful, comforting, and deeply cultural. Chef holding a bag of asparagus These are the restaurants leading that evolution — vegetarian-friendly, globally influenced, and recognized by the Michelin Guide, Food & Wine , or Eater NY as some of the city’s most thoughtful dining experiences. 🌿 Semma — Greenwich Village A Michelin-starred South Indian restaurant where Chef Vijay Kumar brings traditional Tamil Nadu recipes to new heights. Nearly half the menu is vegetarian — from gunpowder dosas to urulai roast potatoes — all rooted in regional authenticity and spice as medicine. 🔗 semmanyc.com 🌿 Divya’s Kitchen — East Village An East Village sanctuary of Ayurvedic dining, Divya’s Kitchen translates India’s healing food philosophy into modern plates — kitchari, saffron rice pudding, lentil stew. Everything is cooked fresh for balance of taste and energy. 🔗 divyaskitchen.com 🌿 Ras Plant-Based — Crown Heights, Brooklyn Michelin Bib Gourmand winner Ras Plant-Based brings Ethiopian vegan cuisine to Brooklyn with vibrant spice blends, teff injera, and communal plates that feel celebratory. It’s wellness expressed through community, color, and comfort. 🔗 rasplantbased.com 🌿 abc Kitchen — Flatiron Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s abc Kitchen is a landmark of organic, market-driven dining. Though not fully vegetarian, over half its menu highlights seasonal vegetables and whole grains, all sourced locally. Its minimalist aesthetic mirrors its culinary purity. 🔗 https://www.abckitchen.nyc 🌿 Bodhi Kosher Vegetarian — Chinatown A long-standing Michelin-listed favorite, Bodhi serves creative Chinese vegetarian fare — mock duck buns, dim sum, and lotus-root soups. It’s a quiet legend among NYC’s wellness-minded diners, where plant-based and tradition blend seamlessly. 🔗 bodhinyc.com 🌿 Shukette — Chelsea Named one of Food & Wine’s “Best New Restaurants in America,” Shukette brings modern Middle Eastern energy to Chelsea. Chef Ayesha Nurdjaja builds half her menu on charred vegetables, labneh, and tahini — joyful, bold, and full of life. 🔗 shukettenyc.com 🌿 Haile Ethiopian Kitchen — East Village Known for its warm service and injera platters, Haile Ethiopian Kitchen offers lentils, collards, and chickpeas spiced with balance — the kind of food that defines comfort across cultures. Listed by Eater NY as one of the best casual vegetarian-friendly meals in Manhattan. 🔗 haileethiopiankitchen.com 🌿 Westville — Multiple Locations A New York institution with locations across the city, Westville has long been the go-to for clean, vibrant vegetable plates and market specials. While omnivore-friendly, its wellness-driven simplicity makes it universally beloved. 🔗 westvillenyc.com 🌿 Baar Baar — East Village Chef Sujan Sarkar’s Baar Baar reinvents Indian small plates with an artful, global flair. Michelin-listed, its vegetarian options — beetroot chaat, paneer pinwheel, turmeric cauliflower — bridge ancient Indian flavors and New York design. 🔗 baarbaarnyc.com 🌿 Spring Café Aspen — SoHo Originally from Colorado, Spring Café Aspen brings organic, nutrient-rich meals to SoHo with avocado bowls, smoothies, and quinoa-based breakfasts. It’s a staple for those craving clean, energizing food after yoga or a long city walk. 🔗 springcafeaspen.com From Michelin-starred tasting rooms to small cafés, New York’s vegetarian-friendly kitchens are rewriting the meaning of healthy dining. They prove that wellness is cultural — woven through spices, ingredients, and traditions that have nourished people for centuries. Whether it’s a soulful Ethiopian platter or a meticulously plated cauliflower steak, these tables show that eating well in New York is as much about intention as indulgence.

New York City has turned plant-based dining into an art form. Once a niche movement, it now defines the city’s most creative kitchens — where Michelin stars meet conscious cooking, and vegetables are treated with reverence usually reserved for fine wine. From tasting menus in landmark dining rooms to apothecary-style kitchens and vegan sushi bars, these restaurants prove that eating plants in NYC is less a restriction and more a revolution. 🌿 Eleven Madison Park — Flatiron A three-Michelin-star legend reborn, Eleven Madison Park set a global standard when it reinvented its tasting menu as entirely plant-based. The dishes — fermented pumpkin with white truffle, sunflower butter risotto — are plated like sculpture, paired with an equally visionary beverage program. Dining here feels like witnessing the future of gastronomy. 🔗 elevenmadisonpark.com 🌿 Dirt Candy — Lower East Side Chef Amanda Cohen’s Dirt Candy earned a Michelin Green Star for turning vegetables into witty, design-forward experiences — think Brussels sprout tacos, celery cheesecake, and beet dumplings that belong in a museum. The restaurant’s no-tipping model and women-led ethos make it one of the most progressive kitchens in the country. 🔗 dirtcandynyc.com 🌿 Le Botaniste — SoHo, Upper East Side, Upper West Side Styled as a “botanical apothecary,” Le Botaniste serves organic, 100% plant-based bowls and tonics inspired by European wellness philosophy. The interiors — all green tile, vintage glass, and botanical illustrations — make it as photogenic as it is restorative. Try the Tibetan Mama bowl or red beet caviar. 🔗 lebotaniste.us 🌿 PLANTA Queen — Nomad At PLANTA Queen, tropical design meets sleek sustainability. Its menu bridges Asian flavors and modern presentation — spicy udon noodles, truffle fried rice, and plant-based sushi that rivals the real thing. The cocktails are equally inventive, made with cold-pressed juices and botanicals. 🔗 Planta New York 🌿 Avant Garden — East Village A long-standing East Village favorite, Avant Garden is minimalist in space but maximal in flavor. The open kitchen turns humble ingredients into indulgent, textural dishes like smoked maitake mushrooms with celery root purée. Its quiet refinement draws both chefs and artists after hours. 🔗 avantgardennyc.com 🌿 Urban Vegan Kitchen — Greenwich Village Playful, colorful, and unpretentious, Urban Vegan Kitchen channels diner nostalgia through a vegan lens — seitan “chicken” waffles, cashew mac, and a strong cocktail game. Its graffiti walls and retro playlist make it a local hangout with genuine New York personality. 🔗 urbanvegankitchen.com 🌿 Peacefood Café — Union Square & Upper West Side Founded by a Buddhist restaurateur, Peacefood Café is both cozy and quietly spiritual. Known for its chickpea fries and raw cashew cheesecake, it’s a pioneer in NYC’s early vegan wave — and still one of the most satisfying casual options in the city. 🔗 peacefoodcafe.com 🌿 Coletta — Gramercy Park Modern Italian goes vegan at Coletta, where Chef Guy Vaknin (of Beyond Sushi) serves handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and truffle arancini. The dining room glows with candlelight and olive tones, setting the mood for long, convivial dinners that make vegan dining feel sophisticated. 🔗 colettanyc.com Plant-based dining in New York has evolved from a niche diet to a design movement — a philosophy that blends taste, ethics, and creativity. Whether you’re sipping beetroot martinis at PLANTA Queen or tasting sunflower risotto at Eleven Madison Park, these kitchens prove that luxury and sustainability no longer exist apart. They’ve redefined indulgence for the modern era — one vegetable at a time. SEO Title: Meta Description: Discover New York’s most acclaimed plant-based restaurants — from Michelin Green Star dining at Eleven Madison Park to creative vegan kitchens like Dirt Candy and Cadence.Social Title: Social Description:

Healthy travel in New York doesn’t have to mean takeout and late-night room service. Across NYC, several hotels now offer in-room kitchens or kitchenettes — ideal for travelers who want flexibility, longer stays, or a space to prepare a quick smoothie before exploring the city. From extended-stay suites to well-priced boutiques, these properties make eating well in Manhattan more accessible than ever. Residence Inn marriott NY - Downtown Manhattan Residence Inn marriott NY - Downtown Manhattan Situated near One World Trade Center and the Statue of Liberty, the eco-certified Residence Inn by Marriott New York Downtown Manhattan/WTC Area offers a complimentary breakfast buffet, 24-hour gym, and free in-room WiFi. Additional conveniences include a snack bar, laundry services, and a grocery store. With 242 well-appointed rooms featuring laptop-friendly workspaces and air conditioning, this property receives high marks for its cleanliness, helpful staff, and modern amenities, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. The Lombardy Hotel The Lombardy Hotel Located near Radio City Music Hall and Rockefeller Center, The Lombardy Hotel offers 153 individually furnished rooms with free WiFi, air conditioning, and laptop-friendly workspaces. Guests can enjoy spa services, a 24-hour business center, and conveniences like dry cleaning, bike rentals, and limo service. Additional amenities include multilingual staff, concierge services, and self-parking. Reviews highlight the hotel’s helpful staff and prime location near 5th Avenue shopping. Sonder Battery Park Sonder Battery Park This smoke-free hotel features a fitness center, a seasonal outdoor pool, and concierge services. WiFi in public areas is free. Other amenities include laundry facilities and a 24-hour front desk. Housekeeping is available on request. Home2Suites by Hilton Home2Suites by Hilton Just steps from Broadway and Rockefeller Center, Home2 Suites by Hilton New York Times Square offers 24-hour gym access, complimentary continental breakfast, and free in-room WiFi. The hotel features 2 bars, valet parking (surcharge), and a porter/bellhop service. Additional conveniences include luggage storage, a front-desk safe, and a water dispenser. Guest reviews highlight the hotel's prime location and attentive staff, with clean, comfortable rooms receiving high praise. Hyatt House New York / Chelsea Hyatt House New York / Chelsea Just steps from the Empire State Building and Times Square, Hyatt House New York/Chelsea offers a free breakfast buffet, a rooftop terrace, and a 24-hour gym. Guests enjoy complimentary in-room WiFi and access to a convenience store on-site. Additional amenities include valet parking (surcharge), luggage storage, and tour assistance. The hotel’s 150 sound-insulated rooms come with air conditioning and laptop-compatible safes. Guest reviews praise the friendly staff, excellent breakfast, and prime location. Candlewood Suites NYC - Times Square Candlewood Suites NYC - Times Square Candlewood Suites New York City-Times Square, part of IHG, is ideally located near Madison Square Garden and Broadway. This hotel features a gym, business center, and free in-room WiFi. Additional perks include valet parking (surcharge), concierge services, and a 24-hour front desk. The 188 air-conditioned rooms offer safes and are highly rated for cleanliness by guests. Reviews consistently praise the helpful staff and convenient location. Homewood Suites NY - Midtown Manhattan Times Square Homewood Suites NY - Midtown Manhattan Times Square Homewood Suites New York/Midtown Manhattan Times Square, located near Madison Square Garden and the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, offers 293 spacious rooms with separate sitting areas, air conditioning, and laptop-compatible safes. Guests enjoy complimentary to-go breakfast, a free grocery shopping service, and rooftop terrace access, along with free in-room WiFi. Perks include bike rentals, limo service, and an electric car charging station. Guest reviews praise the friendly staff, prime location, and clean, well-sized rooms. The Benjamin Royal Sonesta NY The Benjamin Royal Sonesta New York, a boutique hotel near 5th Avenue, is a short walk from Grand Central Terminal and Rockefeller Center. With 209 spacious rooms offering premium bedding, pillow menus, and free in-room WiFi, guests can also enjoy a 24-hour gym, snack bar/deli, and terrace. Additional amenities include valet parking, concierge services, and 9 meeting rooms. Guest reviews highlight the helpful staff and convenient location close to public transit. Club Quarters Hotel, Grand Central Club Quarters Hotel, Grand Central Club Quarters Hotel, Grand Central, located near 5th Avenue and a short walk from Grand Central Terminal and the United Nations, offers 176 rooms with premium bedding, free WiFi, and laptop-friendly workspaces. Guests can enjoy a 24-hour gym, business center, terrace, and coworking spaces. Additional amenities include self-parking (surcharge), concierge services, and express check-in/out. Guest reviews praise the central location and helpful staff. Hotel Boutique at Grand Central Hotel Boutique at Grand Central, steps from 5th Avenue, Grand Central Terminal, and the United Nations, offers 92 rooms featuring premium bedding, free WiFi, and laptop-friendly workspaces. Guests can enjoy a rooftop terrace, 24-hour gym, and business center, with additional amenities like self-parking (surcharge), express check-in/out, and wedding services. Reviews highlight the central location and attentive staff. The Garden Sonesta ES Suites NY Located near Radio City Music Hall and Rockefeller Center, The Gardens Sonesta ES Suites New York offers 132 spacious rooms with premium bedding, separate sitting areas, and in-room WiFi (surcharge). Guests enjoy a 24-hour health club, business center, and a snack bar/deli. Additional perks include valet parking (surcharge), luggage storage, and a 24-hour front desk. Reviews praise the friendly staff and prime location. Best Western Plus Hospitality House Steps from Grand Central Terminal and the United Nations Headquarters, Best Western Plus Hospitality House offers 34 individually furnished rooms with premium bedding, laptop-compatible safes, and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy a free to-go breakfast, two on-site restaurants serving a variety of dishes, and a business center. Additional amenities include self-parking (surcharge), express check-in/out, and multilingual staff. Reviewers praise the hotel’s convenient location and attentive service. The William powered by Sonder A restaurant, a fitness center, and a bar/lounge are available at this smoke-free hotel. Other amenities include concierge services and laundry facilities. Housekeeping is available on request. The Fifty Sonesta Hotel NY Just a short stroll from Grand Central Terminal and the United Nations Headquarters, The Fifty Sonesta Hotel New York combines comfort with convenience. Guests enjoy amenities like a 24-hour gym, a lobby fireplace, and a business center, alongside optional continental breakfast and valet parking. The hotel’s 252 rooms feature premium bedding, laptop-compatible safes, and workspace, with free WiFi available for a fee. With positive reviews highlighting its family-friendly atmosphere and prime location, it’s a standout choice for a Manhattan stay. The Marmara Park Avenue The Marmara Park Avenue A stone’s throw from Grand Central Terminal and Bryant Park, The Marmara Park Avenue offers a blend of luxury and comfort in the heart of Manhattan. Guests can unwind at the on-site Marmara Wellness Center with hot stone massages and aromatherapy, or savor a meal at the OneOneFour Bar & Lounge. The hotel features a rooftop terrace, an indoor pool with sun loungers, and free in-room WiFi. With 128 spacious rooms equipped with premium bedding and iPads, plus top-rated service, it’s a refined choice for a sophisticated city stay. From extended-stay suites with full kitchens to boutique hotels with compact cooking spaces, these Manhattan properties make healthy travel attainable without high prices. Whether you’re in town for a few nights or a longer project, each offers the flexibility to eat well, move easily, and stay connected to the rhythm of the city.

Between Flatiron’s glass towers and the Hudson’s edge, New Yorkers are finding new ways to reset — right where they live and work. Recovery now happens in plain sight, in the same spaces where the city stays awake. From guided plunges to skyline yoga and infrared recovery lounges, these experiences show how Manhattan restores itself without ever slowing down. 1. Heat and Cold Therapy Person in a water tub as part of contrast therapy Contrast therapy has become the city’s favorite reset — alternating hot and cold to balance focus, circulation, and mood. These spots bring centuries-old bathing traditions into modern, design-forward spaces. Where to Try It Othership, Flatiron (23 W 20th St) : A guided thermal experience with sauna, ice baths, and breathwork sessions. Remedy Place, Flatiron (12 W 21st St) : Known for its “social recovery” concept, combining breathwork, red light, and contrast therapy. Bathhouse, Flatiron (14 W 22nd St) : Offers Aufguss sauna sessions, cold plunges, and thermal pools in a sleek, modern space. KOVE Studio, East Village (268 E 7th St) : Focuses on efficient, science-backed recovery sessions with sauna, plunge, and red-light treatments. 2. Sound Experiences Sound therapy via gong. Sound sessions have moved from niche to necessity. Studios across Midtown and Downtown now host immersive gong and bowl experiences that use vibration and rhythm to recharge attention and energy. Where to Try It Official Ritual, Flatiron (112 W 17th St) : A dedicated sound studio offering gong meditations and sonic journeys. OHM Center, near Central Park South : Regular sound baths using crystal bowls and chimes, with optional mantra and mindfulness elements. 3. Outdoor and Movement-Based Options A person rolling a yoga mat Not every reset happens indoors. Midtown and Downtown now host movement experiences that use open air and city geometry as part of the practice. Where to Try It Sky-High Yoga at Edge, Hudson Yards : Early-morning classes led by Equinox instructors on the open-air observation deck. Sky Ting, SoHo : A creative downtown studio offering breath-led yoga and alignment-based movement in light-filled lofts. 4. Technology and Recovery Studios A person getting red light therapy Modern recovery has gone high-tech, blending science and design. These studios offer infrared heat, compression, oxygen, and floatation to improve energy and circulation. Where to Try It Remedy Place, Flatiron : Hyperbaric oxygen, red light therapy, and guided breath sessions for busy professionals. Recoverie, Midtown : A performance-recovery studio offering contrast therapy, cryotherapy, and compression sessions. 5. Free and Low-Cost Ways to Recharge Rockefeller Center Roller Rink in summer. Photo credit: Ashley Levinson on Unsplash Some of Manhattan’s best wellness experiences don’t cost a thing. These are accessible ways to pause and reset in the middle of the city. Where to Try It Bryant Park Yoga : Free sessions every summer — just bring a mat. High Line Walking Path (Gansevoort to 34th St): Elevated gardens and art spaces ideal for mindful walking or solo reflection. Meditation at St. Patrick’s Cathedral : Open pews for quiet reflection during afternoon hours. Rockefeller Center Plaza Seating : Public benches framed by greenery and art installations — an easy midday break. Museum Mindfulness Hours (MoMA): Occasional guided breathing or slow-looking programs; check listings for dates. Central Park (Midtown to Upper East/West Sides) : Miles of running and walking paths, meditation benches, and shaded lawns for breathing space between meetings. Manhattan’s skyline was built for movement, yet it’s also learning how to recover. Between offices, rooftops, and galleries, moments of reset now fit seamlessly into the city’s design. Recovery now happens in plain sight — and that’s exactly what makes it distinctly New York.

🗽New York City isn’t short on energy — but its most remarkable transformation is how it now invites rest. Behind the skyline's rush and the constant hum of movement lie sanctuaries designed for recalibration, not escape: spaces that blend cultural heritage, architectural beauty, and holistic design. Photo of Peninsula Spa, NYC From Japanese cedar roofs in Tribeca to skyline thermal baths on Governors Island, these spas show that calm doesn’t mean quiet — it means choosing where to place your attention. Aman Spa New York — Midtown, Fifth Avenue Set inside the restored Crown Building, Aman New York’s spa is a study in stillness — 25,000 square feet of wood, slate, and shadow arranged around two private Spa Houses with hammam, banya, and open-air soaking pools. Treatments draw from global healing practices and the brand’s Eastern wellness roots, blending cryotherapy and energy therapies with traditional massage. Vibe: Ultra-private, architectural, deeply sensory. Highlight: The Spa House Immersion — a private suite sequence with steam, scrub, and plunge, designed for guests or Aman Club members. Tip: Book the early-morning slot; the light that filters through the limestone windows feels almost cinematic. QC NY — Governors Island Reachable only by ferry, QC NY feels like a hidden European thermal village across the harbor. The 74-room complex houses saunas, Vichy showers, infrared beds, and two outdoor heated pools that stay open year-round with skyline views of Manhattan. Vibe : Social-but-serene; European spa culture with New York edge. Highlight : The contrast-therapy circuit — a rhythm of heat, cold, rest, repeat — framed by harbor air. Tip : Visit midweek and stay through sunset; the skyline reflection in the pools is its own meditation. AIRE Ancient Baths — Tribeca Beneath a 19th-century textile warehouse lies a candle-lit series of thermal pools inspired by Roman and Ottoman traditions. Here, water temperature, silence, and repetition create a trance-like flow. Signature experiences include the Red Wine Bath — a soak infused with antioxidant grapes — and the Ancient Thermal Journey, a progression through six pools. Vibe : Historical reverence meets sensory theater. Highlight : The temperature contrast between tepidarium (97°F) and frigidarium (50°F) — a ritual older than the city itself. Tip: Go late evening when the crowds thin and the lighting deepens; it feels more like time travel than tourism. Shibui Spa at The Greenwich Hotel — Tribeca Concealed beneath The Greenwich Hotel, Shibui embodies Japanese restraint. Its central pool sits beneath a 250-year-old cedar roof imported from a farmhouse near Kyoto, and treatments honor wabi-sabi simplicity. The Shiatsu on Tatamiuses body weight and breath rather than pressure, leaving muscles fluid and mind unclenched. Vibe : Meditative, design-driven, quietly profound. Highlight: Lantern-lit pool and shiatsu sequence that feels choreographed rather than performed. Tip : Arrive early to swim alone; they intentionally cap guest numbers so the silence holds. The Peninsula Spa New York — Fifth Avenue High above Midtown, The Peninsula Spa pairs Asian wellness philosophy with modern clinical polish. Think warm stone floors, a eucalyptus steam room, and the ESPA Mindful Massage — a guided-breath and meditation sequence that re-centers travelers. Guests linger at the glass-roof pool or the rooftop terrace between treatments. Vibe : Old-world service, new-world calm. Highlight : The combination of hands-on ritual and skyline light — very Peninsula, very New York. Tip : Book a late-day massage, then have tea by the pool as twilight hits Fifth Avenue. Spa de la Mer at The Baccarat Hotel — Midtown This spa translates the skincare house’s marine science into full-body ritual. Pale crystal light, mother-of-pearl tiles, and whisper-soft linens set the tone. The La Mer Bespoke Facial layers sea-kelp concentrates and hand-choreographed massage for cellular renewal — equal parts treatment and ceremony. Vibe : Paris-meets-Manhattan glamour through a marine lens. Highlight: Custom facial protocols developed exclusively for Baccarat’s spa — only four treatment rooms, each a jewel box. Tip : Combine facial with the 60-minute body polish for a head-to-toe hydration reset. The Surrey Spa by Corinthia — Upper East Side Recently reopened under Corinthia Hotels, The Surrey brings London-style discretion to New York’s Upper East Side. The spa focuses on calm luxury rather than size — two treatment suites, a salt-lounge tepidarium, and facials using British botanical lines. Vibe : Intimate, residential, softly lit. Highlight : Salt-lounge breathing session — a quiet lung-cleansing ritual rare in Manhattan. Tip: Perfect for locals who prefer privacy; combine a treatment with afternoon tea at the Café Biltmore-style restaurant upstairs. Each of these spaces tells a different story about how New York now understands restoration — from imported cedar roofs to harbor pools and Japanese touch therapy. Choose by mood, not by mileage: Aman for silence, QC NY for atmosphere, AIRE for ritual, Shibui for intimacy, Peninsula for precision, Baccarat for indulgence, and the Surrey for privacy.

Editor’s Note: Bayanihan is a Filipino cultural practice that embodies collective unity—neighbors helping one another through shared effort and compassion. Once literal, now symbolic, it continues to define how Filipinos build connection, health, and hope together. In modern times, where people are divided by different societies, Filipinos remain resilient with a deep sense of togetherness. Here’s why: The Philippines holds a tradition so rich that it has shaped the nation’s reputation for hospitality, the Bayanihan. Bayanihan is a traditional Filipino way of fostering community involvement through civic action, communication, and active socialization with fellow kababayans, embodying the spirit of collective unity. Originally, it referred to the practice of the Filipino neighborhood helping a family relocate their home by physically carrying it, with the word bayan meaning nation or community. This results in a bayanihan that signifies helping others, especially those in need, without expecting anything in return. Ironic as it seems, this tradition still carries on up until modern times, but not by carrying one’s home, rather by building one for the community. Today, bayanihan can be seen in various forms of outreach and community engagement. Whether it may be through volunteering for children, the poor, or for animal welfare, every act matters as it keeps the holistic tradition alive. Bayanihan reflects the Filipino spirit of unity and cooperation, where people come together to help others in times of need. This practice promotes strong community support, as people work side by side in activities such as rebuilding homes, cleaning surroundings, or supporting those in hardship. Through these shared efforts, Filipinos stay socially connected and physically active, which strengthens both the body and the sense of belonging. By practicing bayanihan, people not only help their community but also improve their own well-being through compassion, teamwork, and purposeful action. As a Filipino, I take pride in having witnessed and experienced it myself. Through volunteering, we embody the essence of bayanihan by fostering a welcoming community where children can grow and thrive. A Photo of a community immersion in Caloocan City, Philippines, where we taught children wellness dances to promote physical and mental well-being. Photo credit (and permissions): Juliana Betervo Our professor once said: “Helping kids is helping a community. Sila ang magdadala ng bagong bukas sa komunidad nila,” which translates to, “Helping kids is helping a community. They are the ones who will bring a new dawn to their community.” His words stayed with us. Our community immersion in Caloocan City, where we taught children wellness dances to promote physical and mental well-being, made me realize the deeper meaning of bayanihan. It wasn’t just about helping others through physical effort, but about sharing time, care, and compassion to create positive change. As we guided the children through dance, I saw how simple acts of cooperation could build connection and joy within the community. A Photo of a community immersion in Caloocan City, Philippines, where we taught children wellness dances to promote physical and mental well-being. Photo credit (and permissions): Juliana Betervo Like the Okinawan spirit of yuimaru , we worked together as a group and built friendships through cooperation and shared purpose: to create a safe and healthy foundation for the children. Similar to the African principle of ubuntu , we recognized that our well-being was connected to the children and the community. We grew as we helped them grow. The Okinawan, African, and Filipino practices all reflect a shared belief in the strength of community and collective care. In Okinawa, the values of yuimaru , the spirit of cooperation, and moai, a lifelong support group of friends who help one another in times of need, encourage harmony and lasting relationships within the community. Similarly, African communities live by ubuntu, a philosophy that means “I am because we are,” highlighting shared humanity and interdependence, and harambee, which means “pulling together” to achieve common goals such as building homes, farms, or schools. Together with bayanihan, these practices come from different cultures, yet they all reveal one universal truth: compassion, cooperation, and solidarity are what make a community strong, connected, and resilient. A photo of volunteers at an animal shelter, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), Philippines. Photo credit (and permissions): Juliana Betervo These values of cooperation and compassion were also reflected in our experience of volunteering at the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS). Caring for rescued animals required teamwork, empathy, and a shared sense of responsibility. Each volunteer contributed time and effort not for personal gain, but for the well-being of creatures who depend on human kindness. Through this act of service, I have realized that true community extends beyond people and includes all living beings, reminding me that unity, compassion, and collective action are not limited to human relationships, but also reflect how we care for the world around us. A photo of volunteer at an animal shelter, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), Philippines. Photo credit (and permissions): Juliana Betervo Just like the advocacy of Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS): “The song is about how our lives are enriched by the animals whom we share this earth with. It calls on humankind to build back a better world where kindness reigns supreme.” Bayanihan is not only limited to traditional means, where people team up to carry homes, it varies to a whole  community involvement and active socialization where our kababayans, embodying the spirit of collective unity. With that, Bayanihan continues to live on beyond its traditional form. It now represents the broader spirit of community involvement, compassion, and solidarity among Filipinos. Whether through simple acts of kindness or collective efforts for a greater cause, Bayanihan reminds us that true strength lies in unity and the willingness to uplift one another. In a world that often prioritizes individuality, Bayanihan reminds us of the beauty of collective strength, of reaching out, lending a hand, and growing together as one community. It is not just a tradition but a way of life that truly reflects what it means to be Filipino. The author is a student writer with a deep interest in cultural wellness.

Jurlique’s Calendula Soothing range represents a luxurious return to balance. Designed for sensitive and reactive skin, the line includes the Activating Water Essence+ , Calendula Toner , Serum , Cream , and Face Oil . Calendula Soothing Starter Ritual. Photo credit: Jurlique website For the editorial review, we tested the full collection ( using this discovery pack ) to understand how the range performs as a complete ritual. Each product is also available individually in full size, allowing you to curate your own version of the experience. The Legacy of the Marigold Long before skincare became a science, Calendula officinalis — the humble marigold — was a healer. The flower’s Latin name, calendae , refers to the first day of each month, when its orange blooms reliably opened. In European apothecaries , calendula balms were used to treat wounds and soothe inflammation. In Ayurvedic medicine , it cooled and calmed the skin. And across Latin America , its petals were part of purification and protection rituals. Jurlique’s approach honors that lineage. The brand grows its calendula on its biodynamic farm in the Adelaide Hills of South Australia , hand-harvested at full bloom, and extracted using a low-heat process designed to preserve potency. Ingredient Integrity The formulas rely on a botanical foundation, supported by science. Key botanicals: Calendula extract, Chamomile, Aloe Vera, Manuka Leaf, and Tasmanian Pepper Leaf — all chosen for their soothing, anti-inflammatory, and moisture-replenishing properties. Supporting emollients: Sunflower, Safflower, Meadowfoam, and Shea Butter lend richness without heaviness. Free from: parabens, silicones, mineral oil, and artificial colorants. Contains: naturally derived fragrance and standard preservatives such as Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin — safe and effective, though worth noting for those avoiding all synthetics. The result is a formula philosophy that feels honest and transparent: mostly botanical, selectively functional, and sensorially refined. The Experience Each step of the ritual builds softly on the next. The Essence hydrates; the Toner refines; the Serum comforts; the Cream cushions; the Oil seals everything in. The textures are lightweight yet nurturing, and the scent — herbal, floral, slightly earthy — is unmistakably Jurlique. After use, the skin feels calmer, more even, and noticeably more resilient. Who It’s Best For This line is best suited for dry, sensitive, or mature skin types that respond well to moisture layering. Those with oily or breakout-prone skin may prefer to stop at the Serum or Cream. While the fragrance is derived from botanicals, anyone extremely scent-sensitive should patch test before use. Verdict 🌿 Green Sea Shells Rating: Highly Recommend! Jurlique’s Calendula Soothing Ritual embodies why we love heritage brands — thoughtful, honest, and deeply sensory. The craftsmanship is evident in every texture and scent. This ritual delivers consistency, comfort, and the luxury of craftsmanship. Shop the Line Product Description Activating Water Essence+ A hydrating essence that prepares the skin for the ritual that follows. Calendula Toner A gentle, alcohol-free toner that balances and refreshes. C alendula Serum A lightweight serum infused with calendula and chamomile to calm irritation. Calendula Cream A restorative cream that hydrates and protects sensitive skin. Calendula Face Oil A nutrient-rich blend of safflower and calendula oils for softness and glow.

India. Photo credit: Oberoi Hotels & Resorts “ASMI integrates the depth of Indian wisdom—Ayurveda, mindfulness, yoga, and breath work—with practices supported by science. Each element is authentic and designed to bring meaningful benefit. Guests can begin from any point in their lifestyle and move at their own pace.” — Dr. Anuradha Mathad, AVP Spa, The Oberoi Group The Oberoi Group offers ASMI , a wellness program designed to blend India’s healing traditions with science-backed practices. ASMI brings together Ayurveda, yoga, mindfulness, and breath work, offering guests a holistic path toward stress relief, alignment, and long-term well-being. Guests can experience ASMI at select Oberoi properties, including The Oberoi Sukhvilas Resort & Spa, Siswan Forest, New Chandigarh , and The Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort, Bandhavgarh, Madhya Pradesh . Programs are flexible, ranging from a single day to multi-day immersions of five days or longer. Each journey is customizable, allowing participants to enter from any stage of their lifestyle and progress at their own pace. Individual spa sessions are available for USD 80–200 per treatment , while extended wellness immersions start from USD 230+ per night . Whether chosen as a focused spa retreat or as part of a longer restorative stay, ASMI is crafted to support recovery, longevity, and meaningful personal renewal. Book ASMI Wellness Immersion

New York City, USA Photo credit: Equinox, NYC "Our objective is to bring the rigor of sleep science into the hospitality space, offering an experience that is not only luxurious but also scientifically validated. Sleep is the foundation of human performance, and The Sleep Lab offers guests an unparalleled opportunity to enhance their health, cognition, and overall well-being.” -- Dr. Matthew Walker, sleep scientist and author Equinox Hotels has introduced a bold step in sleep-focused hospitality with its new Sleep Lab, created in partnership with neuroscientist Dr. Matthew Walker. Four Premier King rooms have been reimagined as restorative environments, blending design with research-backed science. Guests are surrounded by adaptive mattress technology, personalized wake-and-sleep automation, contrast therapy showers, circadian-inspired meditation, and thoughtful AM + PM rituals. Each stay includes a travel sleep kit, nightly quality assessments, and—uniquely—the chance to take part in Dr. Walker-led sleep studies. Developed to lower stress, support recovery, and encourage long-term performance, the Sleep Lab is less an amenity and more a wellness intervention—rooted in science yet delivered through luxury. Price: From $1,700 + taxes per night (2-night minimum). Learn More

Barcelona is rarely still. Its streets pulse with Gaudí’s curves, late-night laughter, and the hum of Passeig de Gràcia. Yet just steps away, beneath the elegant façade of the Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, lies a different rhythm. For five consecutive years, Forbes has awarded the hotel’s spa its Five-Star distinction, recognizing not only its service but its ability to create something harder to measure: calm in the heart of a restless city. The spa pool glows in its underground chamber. Photo credit: Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona. Step below street level and the tempo shifts. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, the spa is composed of subtleties — soft pools of light, stone and wood under hand, water gently tracing the air. The vitality pool glows in its underground chamber, hammam mist rises and falls, and treatment rooms lit by candlelight invite silence as a form of therapy. In a city defined by outward expression, this is architecture turned inward: spaces that soothe rather than overwhelm. Misty hammam room. Photo credit: Mandarin Oriental in Barcelona Rituals Rooted in Sea & Soil The spa at Mandarin Oriental tells the story of its landscape through touch and scent. The Sea Vitality Renewal ritual layers Spain’s ecology onto the skin — sea salt from Menorca and Murcia blended with citrus and lemongrass for exfoliation; almonds from Mallorca and aloe vera from Murcia infused into oils; honey from Asturias and thermal seawater to hydrate and calm. The treatment closes with Tibetan singing bowls, so the experience ends in vibration as much as in stillness. The Mediterranean Breeze channels another side of the region: anti-aging sculpting movements paired with Miriam Quevedo’s glacial white caviar skincare. The effect is like a tasting menu of sensation — curated, paced, and designed to echo the clarity of coastal air. A spa treatment in progress. Photo credit: Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona For those with more time, the spa offers urban retreats that function as wellness itineraries: a detox sequence blending scrubs and caviar facials, a couples’ half-day immersion complete with vitality baths, or a city escape for those seeking renewal between flights. These programs feel like rituals of pause for a city that rarely rests. Rates begin around €165, with signature journeys from €270–€300 — often lower than comparable multi-hour treatments in the U.S. What feels indulgent here is not just price or exclusivity, but the accessibility of world-class care in the middle of a European capital. The spa’s philosophy captures this balance : “a blend of Eastern and Mediterranean wellness traditions, personalized for each guest.” Beautiful spa setting. Photo credit: Mandarin Oriental Spa, Barcelona Beyond the Treatment Room The spa spans 1,000 square meters with eight treatment rooms, including couples’ and oriental suites with whirlpools and futons. There’s also a 12-meter indoor heated pool, hammam, rainforest showers, and a 24-hour Technogym fitness center — but its true luxury is subtraction: fewer distractions, more stillness. Responsible Luxury Wellness here extends beyond the individual. The hotel emphasizes local sourcing, fair-trade ingredients, and energy-efficient systems, with certifications such as GSTC, Biosphere, and Ecostars. Sustainability is not an afterthought but part of the ritual — a recognition that caring for ourselves is inseparable from caring for the world around us. Helpful Information The Hotel : Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona offers 120 rooms and suites, including a 236 m² Penthouse Suite with panoramic views. Location : Passeig de Gràcia 38–40, 08007 Barcelona, Spain Contact : +34 93 151 85 19 Spa Hours : Treatments 10:00 am – 8:00 pm; pool area 08:00 am – 8:00 pm Dining highlights: Moments — One Michelin star, chefs Carme Ruscalleda & Raül Balam, contemporary Catalan cuisine. Blanc — Atrium dining, Spanish tapas and Mediterranean plates. Terrat — Seasonal rooftop terrace with tapas and cocktails overlooking the city. Banker’s Bar — Elegant cocktails in a reimagined banking hall. Spa Rates : Spa treatments start from €165. Book a treatment. Hotel Bookings : Reservations can be made directly or through partners such as Expedia .

The World Spa Awards introduced a landmark category in 2025: World’s Best Longevity Programme. On September 23, Advanced Longevity at SHA Mexico was named the inaugural winner, underscoring how central longevity has become in global wellness. The nominees span Austria, Italy, Brazil, the U.S., South Africa, and Switzerland—proof that the science of living longer is no longer niche, but a cornerstone of modern spa and wellness travel. 1. Advanced Longevity at SHA Mexico — Mexico (Winner) Photo credit: SHA Mexico SHA Mexico claimed the first-ever award for World’s Best Longevity Programme. Its Advanced Longevity offering combines clinical diagnostics, integrative medicine, nutrition, and wellness therapies. Building on SHA’s reputation for blending scientific rigor with lifestyle change, the new Mexico location reinforces the brand’s leadership in longevity-focused travel. 2. Diagnostic & Longevity at The Original FX Mayr — Austria (Nominee) Long associated with digestive health resets, The Original FX Mayr has extended its legacy through its Diagnostic & Longevity program. Prevention and gut health remain central, confirming the enduring relevance of the Mayr method in modern longevity science. 3. Longevity at Palazzo Fiuggi — Italy (Nominee) Photo credit: Palazzo Fiuggi, Italy Already recognized as World’s Best Wellness Retreat 2025, Palazzo Fiuggi also earned a longevity nomination. The program merges diagnostics, spa therapies, and nutrition, offering structured plans designed to improve healthspan. 4. Longevity at Santé Wellness Retreat — South Africa (Nominee) Photo credit: Santé Wellness Retreat & Spa Santé Wellness Retreat integrates nutrition, detoxification, and medical input in its longevity offering. Its nomination highlights Africa’s role in advancing science-supported, nature-based approaches to healthy aging. 5. Longevity Method at Kurotel – Longevity Medical Center and Spa — Brazil (Nominee) Brazil’s Kurotel has decades of experience in lifestyle medicine, reflected in its Longevity Method. Clinical supervision, nutrition, fitness, and stress reduction strategies define this program, underscoring Latin America’s presence in the evidence-based longevity field. 6. Longevity Programme at Lanserhof Sylt — Germany (Nominee) Photo credit: Lanserhof Sylt — Germany Lanserhof Sylt applies the renowned Lanserhof Concept on Germany’s North Sea coast, combining diagnostics, detox, and individualized health plans. Its recognition reaffirms Lanserhof’s dominance in European medical wellness. 7. Longevity Programme at Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda — Italy (Nominee) Set on Lake Garda, Lefay Resort integrates spa therapies, preventive medicine, and sustainable architecture. Its longevity program emphasizes both structured health offerings and an eco-conscious approach, cementing Italy’s leadership in wellness innovation. 8. Longevity Programme at Mount Med Resort — Austria (Nominee): Photo credit: Mount Med Resort, Austria. Mount Med Resort may be less internationally known, but its preventive care and structured therapies earned it a place on the 2025 list. Its inclusion reflects Europe’s expanding range of longevity destinations. 9. Longevity/Healthy Aging at MAYRLIFE Altaussee — Austria (Nominee) MAYRLIFE Altaussee adapts the Mayr approach into a modern longevity and healthy aging framework. The program emphasizes gut health, detox, and nutrition as pathways to vitality and long-term wellness. 10. LONGEVITY8 at Canyon Ranch Tucson — USA (Nominee) Canyon Ranch Tucson introduced LONGEVITY8, a program designed to address multiple aspects of aging through diagnostics, fitness, and preventive care. Its nomination underscores the U.S. role in formalizing longevity-focused lifestyle medicine. 11. Prevention & Ageing Well at Chenot Palace Weggis — Switzerland (Nominee) Chenot Palace Weggis offers a program rooted in the Chenot Method, focusing on detoxification, cellular renewal, and anti-aging therapies. Precision-driven and medical in approach, it represents the Swiss contribution to longevity travel. A Turning Point in Global Wellness The creation of the Longevity Programme category signals a shift: longevity has moved from specialist clinics into mainstream destination wellness. For travelers, these programs are more than retreats—they are structured experiences designed to extend health span, combining medical insight with lifestyle transformation. SHA Mexico’s win sets the tone, but the global list of nominees shows that healthy aging is now a universal pursuit.

What sets Los Angeles apart is its range. You can step into a Korean jjimjilbang in Koreatown at midnight, soak in a natural hot spring the next morning, and end the day with a Forbes-rated facial in Beverly Hills. Add oceanfront sanctuaries in Palos Verdes, Ayurvedic rituals in Santa Monica, and high-end retreats in Malibu, and you begin to see why LA is a spa capital unlike any other. A woman getting a spa treatment Heritage & Cultural Spas Olympic Spa – Koreatown Women-only jjimjilbang with hot and cold pools, saunas, and its famous Akasuri body scrub. A long-time Koreatown favorite, often spotlighted in the LA Times for its authentic Korean spa culture. Wi Spa – Koreatown A 24-hour, multi-level jjimjilbang featuring specialty sauna rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a family-friendly ethos. Regularly cited by GQ and Time Out as one of LA’s defining cultural spa experiences. Luxury Hotel Spas Surya Spa at Santa Monica Proper – Santa Monica Ayurvedic flagship designed by Kelly Wearstler. Known for Panchakarma detox programs and herbal oil rituals, Surya has been profiled by Condé Nast Traveler as one of LA’s most unique wellness experiences. Spa at the Santa Monica Proper Hotel. Photo credit: Expedia Travel Creator Program The Spa at Terranea – Rancho Palos Verdes Oceanfront, 50,000-square-foot spa overlooking the Pacific. Recognized with a Forbes Four-Star rating, Terranea integrates circadian-inspired treatments with its coastal landscape. Spa at Terranea. Photo credit: Expedia Travel Creator Program The Peninsula Spa – Beverly Hills Forbes Five-Star spa with a reputation for Biologique Recherche facials, advanced skincare, and personalized service. Consistently ranked among the world’s top hotel spas. The spa at Peninsula Beverly Hills. Photo credit: Expedia Travel Creator Program Spa at Hotel Bel-Air – Bel-Air Situated in garden courtyards of the iconic Hotel Bel-Air, this Forbes-recognized spa delivers facials, massage, and discreet luxury in one of LA’s most exclusive neighborhoods. Spa at Hotel Bel Air. Photo credit: Expedia Travel Creator Program Chuan Spa at The Langham Huntington – Pasadena Forbes Four-Star spa inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine. Offers herbal rituals, acupressure, and treatments rooted in balance and energy flow. Chuan spa at the Langham Huntington. Photo credit: Expedia Travel Creator Program Fairmont Spa Century Plaza – Century City A 14,000-square-foot spa in a reimagined LA landmark. Marketed as an “award-winning” spa, it features advanced massage, facials, and modern design. Fairmont Century Plaza Spa. Photo credit: Expedia Travel Creator Program Conrad Spa – Downtown Los Angeles A contemporary spa in the new Conrad hotel, offering infrared saunas, thermal suites, and high-tech skincare therapies in the heart of DTLA’s cultural district. Conrad Spa, Los Angeles. Photo credit: Expedia Travel Creator Program The Beverly Hills Hotel Spa – Beverly Hills Historic Dorchester Collection spa offering signature treatments like the “Marilyn Monroe massage” and “Red Carpet Radiance Facial.” Forbes Travel Guide highlights it for anti-aging therapies. Spa at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Photo credit: Expedia Travel Creator Program The Spa at The Maybourne Beverly Hills – Beverly Hills 20,000-square-foot luxury spa with mineral pools, saunas, and bespoke facials by Dr. Barbara Sturm. Profiled by Forbes and Spa & Beauty Today as one of LA’s most comprehensive hotel spas. The spa at The Maybourne in Beverly Hills.  Photo credit: Expedia Travel Creator Program La Prairie Spa at Waldorf Astoria – Beverly Hills Anchored by the prestige La Prairie brand, this spa offers high-luxury facials and body rituals in an opulent setting. A hallmark of the Waldorf Astoria’s reputation for discreet exclusivity. La Prairie spa at the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills. Photo credit: Expedia Travel Creator Program Spa at Beverly Wilshire , A Four Seasons Hotel – Beverly Hills Classic Four Seasons spa known for massage therapies, facials, and wellness experiences that blend tradition with modern luxury. A long-established choice for both locals and international travelers. Spa at Beverly Wilshire. Photo credit: Four Seasons Beverly Hills spa website. Boutique Day Spas Tomoko Spa – Beverly Hills Japanese-inspired boutique spa offering highly personalized service and bespoke treatments. Frequently ranked among LA’s best by Time Out and other publications. Larchmont Sanctuary Day Spa – Larchmont Village Award-noted boutique spa specializing in couples’ treatments and intimate wellness experiences. Known for its calm, residential setting. A lady on a massage table getting an oil massage. Hot Springs & Retreats Glen Ivy Hot Springs – Corona (Greater LA) Historic hot springs resort offering mineral pools, hydrotherapy, and its famous “Club Mud.” Winner of multiple 2023 World Luxury Spa Awards and Organic Spa Media recognition. The Ranch Malibu – Santa Monica Mountains World-renowned multi-day wellness retreat featuring structured programs of hiking, yoga, and plant-based dining. Featured in Condé Nast Traveler and spa awards as one of California’s premier luxury retreats.

Los Angeles is often described through its freeways and film studios, but the city’s real character emerges outdoors. Yoga on a Los Angeles beach Residents climb steep staircases at dawn, move through yoga flows directly on the sand, or walk shaded gardens that double as living museums. These are everyday practices that reveal how Angelenos reset and connect to place. For visitors, joining in offers not just exercise but insight: a chance to experience the city as locals do. Yoga on Sand and Water — and Dance at Sunset Yoga on a paddleboard Beach Yoga SoCal – On Santa Monica and Venice beaches, mats go straight on the sand. For about $25, you move with the ocean’s rhythm. Classes run sunrise to sunset; the Pacific is the teacher. YOGAqua – In Marina del Rey, yoga flows on anchored paddleboards. Expect to slip into the water at least once. It’s not about balance perfection, but presence. (~$44 per session, board included.) Silent Disco on Venice Beach / Hermosa Beach – At Sunset Vibes Silent Disco , hundreds gather with wireless headphones to dance as the sun sets. The crowd is large, the music private, the experience both social and meditative. Climbing, Hiking, and City Views Hiking in Los Angeles Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook / Culver City Steps – A steep stair climb and switchback trail leading to sweeping views from city to coast. Popular at sunset; prepare for a workout and a view that rewards it. Park to Playa Trail – A 13-mile green corridor connecting Baldwin Hills to the Pacific. Locals break it into smaller sections for walking, running, or cycling. Hollywood Sign Hike (Griffith Park) – Iconic but still worth the climb. Multiple routes lead to the sign and panoramic views across LA. Go early to avoid crowds and heat. Urban Staircases – Silver Lake’s Micheltorena Stairs and Echo Park’s Baxter Steps are daily training grounds for locals, equal parts cardio and community. Botanic Landmarks of Los Angeles Miniature Bridge at the Huntington Gardens South Coast Botanic Garden – One of the world’s first botanic gardens built on reclaimed land. Today it’s 87 acres of themed gardens, walking trails, and seasonal events. The Huntington Gardens – A cultural institution with more than 120 acres of landscapes: a Japanese tea house, desert gardens, and centuries-old camellias. Los Angeles County Arboretum – Known for roaming peacocks and historic cottages. Monthly forest-bathing walks add an intentional slowness to the visit. Descanso Gardens – Oak groves, camellias, and shaded streams. On select days, guided sensory walks invite visitors to slow their pace. Los Angeles River Center & Gardens – A smaller Eastside green space, less known but deeply appreciated by locals looking for respite close to the city core. Everyday Resets Sunset at a Los Angeles beach Grand Park Yoga – Twice a week at lunchtime, the civic heart of Downtown becomes a yoga square. Free, all levels, mats provided. Sunset Watching – From Griffith Observatory, Baldwin Hills, or the Manhattan Beach Pier, Angelenos gather simply to watch the sun drop into the horizon. In a city of endless activity, this daily pause is its own ritual. Outdoor rituals in Los Angeles are not add-ons to the city’s lifestyle; they are the foundation of it. From the Culver City Steps to the Huntington’s gardens, from paddleboard yoga to sunset gatherings on the pier, each experience shows how a vast metropolis sustains intimacy and rhythm. To understand LA, travelers should step outside — that’s where the city reveals itself.

Los Angeles is home to a new category of spaces that go beyond gyms and spas. These are wellness clubs—places where people gather not just to work out, but to recover, eat, and connect. Each has its own approach, from medical diagnostics to heritage bathhouse rituals, but all share one idea: wellness as a social experience. Lounge-style space with soft lighting, couches, two women chatting over tea in robes post-treatment. Remedy Place – West Hollywood The Concept Remedy Place calls itself the world’s first social wellness club. It opened in 2019 on Sunset Boulevard with a model built around group experiences. Instead of nightlife, it promotes self-care as a reason to meet up. The Experience The best-known offering is the guided ice-bath class, which combines coaching and cold immersion in a group setting. IV drips, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, acupuncture, and chiropractic sessions are also available. Visitors highlight the design, which avoids a clinical feel in favor of darker tones and soft lighting. Guests often plan to attend with friends, making health practices part of their social calendar. Need to Know Treatments start around $50. Memberships begin near $300 per month. Sessions fill quickly, so advance booking is recommended. Valet parking is available on site. IF YOU GO 📍 8305 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 🌐 remedyplace.com 💡 Signature Experience: Group ice-bath class (includes breathwork) 💲 Starts at: ~$50 for single treatments; memberships from ~$255/month 📅 Book ahead via website or app; group sessions often sell out 🧭 Extras: Non-members can access lounges and sauna/steam when booking select services. Walks in accepted Heimat – Hollywood The Concept Heimat is a 75,000-square-foot, five-story complex operated by RSG Group. It combines a luxury gym, spa, coworking lounge, rooftop pool, and restaurant. It positions itself as a full-day environment for members who want every aspect of wellness and work in one place. The Experience Members point to the variety of strength and conditioning classes, the rooftop pool with city views, and the inclusion of library-style workspaces that allow them to stay onsite between workouts. The restaurant, operated by chef Michael Mina, receives strong reviews. The facility is designed so members can move seamlessly between training, recovery, dining, and work. Need to Know Membership requires an application and costs about $350 per month plus an initiation fee. Reservations for the restaurant are recommended. Parking is available, and the location is in the heart of Hollywood. IF YOU GO 📍 960 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038 🌐 heimat.com 💡 Signature Experience: Rooftop pool + strength classes + coworking in one facility 💲 Membership: ~$350/month + initiation fee; application required 📅 Apply online ; tours offered by appointment 🧭 Extras: Full-service restaurant, coworking lounges, spa access for members HUME – Venice The Concept HUME is a smaller-scale wellness club located in Venice. It is built around the idea of intimacy and community rather than scale, with 13,500 square feet of facilities. The Experience The club offers a gym, recovery treatments, classes, and a café. Reviews highlight the sensory design—muted colors, curated lighting, and soundscapes that create a consistent environment. Members often stay after classes to spend time in the café, and feedback emphasizes that the space feels curated for interaction without crowding. Its size sets it apart from larger Hollywood clubs. Need to Know HUME is membership-only and capped to preserve access. Applications are required, and membership includes access to all classes and recovery services. Street parking is available nearby. IF YOU GO 📍 3118 Pacific Ave, Venice, CA 90291 🌐 hume.la 💡 Signature Experience: Small-group classes with access to café + recovery areas 💲 Membership-only; pricing by application 📅 Apply online; capped membership to avoid crowding 🧭 Extras: Café onsite; sensory-rich environment; designed for lingering Love.Life – El Segundo / Manhattan Beach The Concept Founded by John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, Love.Life blends functional medicine with fitness, diagnostics, and recovery therapies. It aims to bridge clinical care with everyday lifestyle. The Experience The gym floor features advanced equipment such as OxeFit strength machines and stations for VO₂ max testing. Members can book diagnostics, physical therapy, or psychiatric services. Recovery includes red-light therapy, lymphatic compression, and hydrotherapy. A facial appointment, priced around $70, also provides access to sauna, steam, and cold plunge areas. Reviews often point out the pickleball courts and café as social hubs, and note the staff’s clinical expertise. Need to Know Memberships and drop-in treatments are available. Pricing varies by service, with entry-level treatments beginning near $70. Booking online is recommended. The facility is located in El Segundo with ample parking. IF YOU GO 📍 888 N Sepulveda Blvd, El Segundo, CA 90245 🌐 love.life 💡 Signature Experience: $70 facial includes full access to sauna, steam, and cold plunge 💲 Starts at: ~$70; memberships and diagnostics priced separately 📅 Book online; some services allow non-member access 🧭 Extras: Pickleball courts, physician-led care, plant-forward café Olympic Spa – Koreatown The Concept Olympic Spa is a long-running Korean-style bathhouse in Koreatown. It offers communal hot and cold plunges, herbal steam rooms, and body treatments. It represents the cultural roots of social bathing in Los Angeles. The Experience Visitors highlight the body scrub, which is one of the most requested treatments. Guests move between heated rooms, soaking tubs, and steam baths. Nudity is expected in the bathing areas, consistent with Korean jjimjilbang culture. Reviews note that regulars and newcomers mix comfortably, and that the atmosphere is straightforward and unpretentious. Need to Know Admission provides access to communal facilities, while scrubs and massages are priced separately. Walk-ins are accepted. Towels and robes are provided on site. Parking is available in Koreatown. IF YOU GO 📍 3915 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019 🌐 olympicspala.com 💡 Signature Experience: Traditional Korean body scrub + herbal steam rooms 💲 Admission: ~$40; body scrubs from ~$55 📅 Walk-ins welcome; weekends are busiest 🧭 Extras: Communal nudity required in bathing areas; robes/towels provided These five venues represent the range of social wellness in Los Angeles. From high-end, membership-based complexes to heritage bathhouses, they each position health as something to be experienced together rather than alone. For locals and visitors, they showcase how the city’s wellness culture is expanding beyond workouts into community, diagnostics, and recovery.

Los Angeles is home to a thriving Ethiopian food scene. There are dozens of Ethiopian restaurants in the city, and they offer a wide variety of traditional Ethiopian dishes. Those who know me know that I love going to Ethiopian restaurants. We went often when we lived in the New York area, and I think Los Angeles offers even more Ethiopian food options. I also like the idea of the whole family eating from one plate - its a change from the fork and spoon routine! This (see photo) is how an Ethiopian plate is served. You always eat Ethiopian food with friends and family. The platter is communal, everyone eats from one plate. The etiquette is to serve food on the Injera bread that soaks up all the flavors of the stews that are on top of it. I promise it tastes better when you eat with your hands, no silverware :) There are two amazing spices that make the food distinctly Ethiopian. Berebere powder and Shiro . You can find both of these in an Ethiopian market. Ethiopian vegetarian platter The history of Ethiopian food in Los Angeles is a long and rich one. The two Ethiopian restaurants in the city were Messob and Rosalind. Messob was founded by Rahel Woldmedhin on La Brea Avenue in Los Angeles in 1985. Rosalind, opened in 1988 on Fairfax Avenue, founded by Fekere Gebre-Mariam. Over the years, more restaurants were established on this strip and the Ethiopian food scene grew in Los Angeles. Over the last 7-8 years, the Little Ethiopia area near Culver City has been my go-to for traditional Ethiopian meals and I have been to most of the restaurants on the strip. Parking during dinner time is difficult in this area. I like the idea of Ethiopian Sunday lunch! Since we are a vegetarian family, we always order the Vegetarian Platter, which has a mix of vegetables and protein (lentils) preparations, served with Injera bread, made from teff. The cuisine is known for its use of spices and its focus on vegetables. Here are some of the most popular vegetarian preparations in Ethiopian food: Yemisir: This is a lentil stew that is flavored with onions, garlic, and spices. Misir Wot: This is a red lentil stew that is flavored with berbere, a spice blend that is made with chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and other spices. Shiro: This is a chickpea stew that is flavored with onions, garlic, and spices. Gomen: This is a cabbage stew that is flavored with onions, garlic, and spices. Atkilt Wat: This is a tomato stew that is flavored with onions, garlic, and spices Injera: This is a spongy, sourdough flatbread that is made from teff flour. It is the traditional eating utensil for Ethiopian food, and it is used to scoop up the stews and vegetables Timatim Fit Fit: This is a salad full of injera soaked in tomato-pepper-onions in lemon juice If you are meat-eater, check out their lamb, beef and chicken preparations. Meat is commonly eaten in Ethiopian cuisine. Some of the most popular meat dishes in Ethiopian cuisine include doro wat (chicken stew), tibs (sautéed meat), and kitfo (raw beef). Ethiopian Restaurants in Los Angeles Lalibela is a newer Ethiopian restaurant in Los Angeles, but it's quite popular! The food is delicious, the service is excellent, and the atmosphere is modern and stylish. Lalibela is a great place to go for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Thoughts: This restaurant is my daughter's favorite. I love how quick the service is, and it feels Americanized, and I say that in a good way. My daughter can eat without being worried about spice levels. I like that they have a Veggie Utopia which has many more vegetarian items that are not available in their regular combos. Rosalind's s one of the oldest Ethiopian restaurants in Los Angeles, and it has been serving up delicious food for over 30 years. The food is authentic, the service is friendly, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Rosalind's is a great place to go for a taste of traditional Ethiopian cuisine. Thoughts: We like Rosalinds' because of its flavor profiles. If I have friends visiting who like spicier food, I would choose Rosalind. Their berebere dishes are spicy! Service is a little slow but the place is bigger and they have a bar area too. Right next to Rosalind is Merkato . It is affordable than the other spots, it is smaller, like Buna. These are also good spots to buy Ethiopian grocery, if you plan to cook. Messob is also a great restaurant choice. Fancier look and feel. It has some good media around it! Messob was founded in 1985 by Rahel Woldmedhin on La Brea Avenue in Los Angeles, and then the restaurant relocated to Faixfax. The restaurant is now run by her son, Berhanu. Thoughts: This is a good date night place as there is a full bar, with Ethiopian beers, wines and cocktails. Rahel has been around since 2000, founded by Rahel Woldmedhin. I like that Rahel is vegan. They have a brunch buffet thing that is a must do! The focus is on vegetable stews! Don't miss their vegan desserts and interesting juices. Thoughts: I distinctly think of cardamom-forward dishes when I think of Rahel! And gluten-free. Ask in advance, and you might find GF options. Finally, there is Awash , founded in 1992 by Mesfin Bekele. This place is the real deal (it's a secret gem) and you see mostly locals here. You might see dishes here that you may not find on the strip - This place is not on the strip, just maybe a mile off! Food is great. Thoughts: I would go here with an Ethiopian friend to feel a little less out of place! ___ First published: 5/25/2022 Revised: 4/18/2023

Persian cuisine, with its roots stretching back thousands of years, offers an unforgettable exploration of balanced and aromatic flavors. At Shamshiri Grill in Los Angeles, this tradition meets the growing demand for plant-based dining, showcasing how Persian cooking can beautifully cater to vegan and vegetarian preferences while preserving its rich heritage. The heart of Persian cuisine lies in its thoughtful use of spices and herbs. Saffron, cherished for its delicate aroma and golden hue, plays a central role in dishes from stews to rice. Turmeric and cinnamon add warmth, while dried limes introduce a tangy depth. Fenugreek leaves contribute a mild bitterness, especially in herbaceous dishes like Ghormeh Sabzi. These spices carry cultural and medicinal significance, reflecting Persian cooking's holistic approach. Persian stews, or khoresh , are an important part of the cuisine, offering endless versatility. While many traditional khoresh recipes feature meat, vegetarian adaptations have now gained popularity. These dishes emphasize legumes, vegetables, and spices to create layers of flavor that rival their meat-based counterparts. For example, Ghormeh Sabzi, a herbaceous stew typically made with lamb, shines just as brightly in its vegan form, where fresh greens, kidney beans, and dried lime take center stage. Los Angeles has long embraced global cuisines, and Persian food is no exception. Shamshiri Grill has carved out a niche as a reliable spot for authentic Persian dishes. For vegan diners, standouts include the Vegan Bamieh, an okra stew with mushrooms in a saffron-tomato base; the Vegan Ghormeh Sabzi, brimming with fresh herbs and kidney beans; and the Vegan Falafel Platter, paired with light sides like Shirazi Salad and Tabouli. For anyone seeking to try something new, Persian cuisine offers a blend of ancient tradition and bold innovation. At Shamshiri Grill, these dishes bring the heart of Persian culinary heritage to the table, adapted thoughtfully for modern vegan tastes. See our Instagram reel on our recent experience at Shamshiri Grill in Los Angeles. It also showcases the range of vegetarian items. Learn more about the restaurant here.

The South Bay Area of Los Angeles is home to some of the best ice creams in Los Angeles. Here are a few of our favorite scoop shops in the beach cities! Ice-cream scoops in Los Angeles Manhattan Beach Creamery Manhattan Beach Creamery is an ice cream shop located in downtown Manhattan Beach, California. It was founded in 2012 by the Katella family, who also own Katella Bakery. The shop is known for its handmade ice cream and its signature Cream'wich, which is an ice cream sandwich made with two of Katella Bakery's fresh-baked cookies. Manhattan Beach Creamery also offers a variety of other ice cream treats, including cones, cups, milkshakes, and floats. They offer 28 different ice cream flavors, made in small batches, by hand, using the quality ingredients. Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Handel's Homemade Ice Cream is an ice cream company founded in 1945 by Alice Handel in Youngstown, Ohio. The company is still family-owned and operated today, and it has grown to over 90 locations in 11 states. Handel's is known for its high-quality ice cream, made with fresh, local ingredients. Find Handel's scoop shop in Manhattan Beach mall. Gelato and Angels Gelato and Angels is an Italian gelato shop located in Manhattan Beach, California. It was founded in 2012 by two friends, who wanted to bring the authentic taste of Italian gelato to the West Coast. Gelato and Angels is also known for its creative gelato creations, such as its gelato sandwiches and its gelato popsicles. The scoop shop is located at 308 Manhattan Beach Boulevard. The Baked Bear The Baked Bear is a custom ice cream sandwich shop that was founded in 2010 in San Diego, California. The company's signature product is an ice cream sandwich made with a fresh-baked cookie or brownie and your choice of ice cream and toppings. Visit their Hermosa Beach location. Wanna Chill Inspired by Hawaii, and infused with some California swagger, Wanna Chill? was created to bring an island tradition to the mainland. Visit their Redondo Beach location. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Van Leeuwen Ice Cream was founded in Brooklyn, New York in 2008 by Ben Van Leeuwen and Laura O'Neill. The company makes small-batch ice cream using natural ingredients. Find it in The Point in El Segundo. Check out their Earl Grey Tea, which is quite unique. They also have vegan ice-creams. Pinkberry Pinkberry is a frozen yogurt chain that was founded in 2005 in West Hollywood, California. The company's signature product is a tart frozen yogurt made with fresh, all-natural ingredients. Pinkberry also offers a variety of toppings, including fresh fruit, granola, and candy. Check out their El Segundo location. Cold Stone Creamery Cold Stone Creamery is an ice cream parlor chain that was founded in 1988 in Tempe, Arizona. The company's unique selling point is that its ice cream is made fresh to order, right in front of the customer. Customers can choose from a variety of ice cream flavors, mix-ins, and toppings to create their own custom ice cream creation. Visit their El Segundo or Torrance locations. SomiSomi SomiSomi is a Korean-inspired ice cream shop that was founded in Los Angeles in 2016. The company's signature product is a taiyaki ice cream cone, which is a fish-shaped waffle cone filled with ice cream and topped with various toppings. Try their Ube, black sesame or mango flavors! Find them at Del Amo mall in Torrance. Salt and Straw Salt & Straw is an artisanal ice cream company based in Portland, Oregon. The company was founded in 2011 by Kim and Tyler Malek. Salt and Straw will soon have a brand new scoop shop in downtown Manhattan Beach!

The Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) is a place where the city’s industrial past meets its creative present. Old brick warehouses have been converted into artist lofts, cafés, and galleries. Walls bloom with large-scale murals — political statements, portraits of resilience, dreamscapes of color — many painted freehand without grids, a true testament to the skill of local artists. DTLA Arts District, Los Angeles The art here doesn’t stand still. Murals are constantly repainted, layered, or replaced, which means no two visits are ever the same ( LA Times , 2022). “Viewing murals isn’t just about color on walls — it can also act as a form of urban therapy. Studies show that engaging with public art can reduce stress, spark reflection, and strengthen community connection, all of which are linked to mental well-being.” DTLA Arts District, Los Angeles Directions & Parking The Arts District sits east of downtown, bordered by Alameda Street, the LA River, First Street, and Violet Street. Parking is scarce, so it helps to anchor your map to: Arts District Brewery – 828 Traction Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90013 KTCHN DTLA – 428 S. Hewitt St, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Both are convenient landmarks where visitors often find parking. Visitor Tip: Explore in the daytime. The district is best suited to adults, and it’s advisable to leave before dark. DTLA Arts District, Los Angeles Where to Find Murals The most mural-heavy corridors are: Traction Avenue Mateo Street Alameda Street 3rd and 4th Streets As you walk, pause to notice the textures of the neighborhood: rusted metal doors, sun-bleached signs, and entire walls covered in paint. Every block offers a surprise, whether it’s a political mural tucked into an alley or a playful graffiti piece layered over another. DTLA Arts District, Los Angeles Art Walks & Cultural Stops Downtown Art Walk – On the second Thursday of each month , this free event turns downtown into an open gallery walk. Visitors can step into studios and galleries, with maps available online. Check out DTLA.com Brewery ArtWalk – Twice a year, the Brewery Arts Complex (once home to the LA Brewing Company and Edison Electric Steam Power Plant) opens its lofts. Residents invite the public inside to see and purchase art. It runs 11 am–6 pm, admission free. Art Share LA – A nonprofit that doubles as both artist housing and a gallery. Exhibitions and performances rotate regularly. Wisdome LA – A dome park for immersive art and music experiences, unique to DTLA. La Kretz Innovation Campus – A sustainability hub with public green space, located near 5th & Hewitt Streets DTLA Arts District, Los Angeles Where to Eat & Drink Creativity spills into the cafés and breweries too: Groundwork Coffee – A historic LA roaster, great for starting your walk. Arts District Brewery – Arcade games alongside craft beer. Angel City Brewery – A landmark taproom often flanked by food trucks. Urth Caffé – Classic LA café with vegetarian-friendly meals. Café Gratitude – Plant-based dining, bright and airy. Pizzanista! – Late-night pizza with a punk edge. For a list of the best restaurants in the DTLA Arts District area, check out LA Eater . “Spending a few hours here can feel restorative. The physical act of walking, pausing to look closely, and being surprised by new images mirrors mindful practices. It’s a reminder that wellness isn’t limited to spas or yoga studios — it can also be found in city streets alive with creativity.” DTLA Arts District How to Plan Your Visit Plan to spend half a day . A sample itinerary: Start with coffee at Groundwork on Traction Avenue. Walk Mateo Street and 3rd/4th Streets for murals. Stop for lunch at Urth Caffé or Pizzanista!. Browse a gallery or check if your visit overlaps with Art Walk or Brewery ArtWalk . End with a beer at Angel City or Arts District Brewery. “For many, the Arts District is more than an art destination; it’s a wellness experience. Public art encourages mindfulness, offers space for emotional release, and transforms city walking into a grounding ritual.” DTLA Arts District, Los Angeles The Arts District is both raw and polished — a place where street art coexists with startups, cafés, and lofts. Its walls tell stories of change, struggle, joy, and community. Whether you’re here for the murals, the food, or an art walk, the neighborhood offers an ever-changing, authentic glimpse into Los Angeles creativity.

When love is in the air, there's no better place to be than Los Angeles—where romantic moments unfold in the most unexpected places. Whether you're looking for an intimate getaway, an unforgettable adventure, or a moment to unwind and connect, LA has it all. Here are some of the most unique and romantic experiences to celebrate love, no matter the occasion. Champagne Brunch Cruise in Marina del Rey Imagine gliding across the water on a beautiful brunch cruise, the ocean breeze brushing your face, and a glass of champagne in hand. In Marina del Rey, you can do just that. With live music setting the mood, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a leisurely Sunday morning with your special someone. This isn’t just a brunch—it’s an experience. Picture the sun reflecting on the water as you cruise past the serene coastline, letting the gentle waves set the rhythm for your day. Explore: Booze it up in  Marina del Rey with a Premier Valentines Brunch Cruise   A Cozy Valentine’s Tea at The Huntington Step into a world of elegance at The Huntington, where a Valentine’s Tea awaits you and your love. As you settle into the cozy ambiance of the Garden Court, sip on the signature Huntington Rose Tea while enjoying freshly baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches, and decadent sweets. The setting—a historic estate with lush gardens and beautiful architecture—provides the perfect backdrop for a quiet, yet indulgent afternoon. And with a complimentary glass of sparkling rosé or cider, it’s the ultimate treat for a cozy date. Explore: Enjoy The Rose Garden Tea Room Sunset Horseback Ride to Mount Hollywood If you’re looking for an adventure with breathtaking views, a guided horseback tour up Mount Hollywood is just the thing. As you and your partner ride along the trails, the city unfolds beneath you—360º views of Los Angeles, the valleys, and even the ocean in the distance. The journey culminates in a stunning sunset at the peak, creating the kind of magical moment you’ll never forget. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being on horseback, surrounded by nature, and sharing the moment with someone special. Explore: Ride horses into the sunset Gondola Ride in Long Beach Trade the canals of Venice for the serene waterways of Long Beach. Here, gondolas—steered by Venice-trained gondoliers—glide through the peaceful canals of Naples Islands. Picture this: the gentle sound of the oar dipping into the water, the soft glow of the evening lights, and you and your partner sharing a quiet, intimate moment. This picturesque setting makes for a truly unforgettable date. Explore: Enjoy a romantic gondola ride in Long Beach Romantic Massage at Four Seasons Beverly Hills There’s no better way to unwind and reconnect than with a couples massage at the Four Seasons in Beverly Hills. Share a Swedish or deep tissue massage with your trusted companion. Let the soothing sounds, the calming aromas, and the expert hands of the therapists melt away any stress, leaving you both relaxed and rejuvenated. After all, a little pampering can go a long way in making your day even more special. Explore: Treat yourselves to a couples massage Helicopter Tour with Orbic Air When it comes to grand gestures, nothing compares to a helicopter ride. Take your love to new heights with Orbic Air’s Valentine’s Day helicopter tours. Whether you’re flying over the iconic Hollywood Sign or cruising along the California coastline, the aerial views of Los Angeles are jaw-dropping. It’s the ultimate thrill, perfect for creating lasting memories. Explore: Love is in the air with Orbic Air Sweethearts' Nite at Disneyland After Dark No one does romance quite like Disney. During Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts' Nite, the park transforms into a wonderland of love. From dancing the night away to sharing special treats, the evening is filled with magical moments that will make you feel like you're in your own fairy tale. And with exclusive photo ops, themed entertainment, and a little extra Disney magic, it’s the perfect romantic escape. Explore: Go to Disneyland After Dark and enjoy Sweethearts Nite

Los Angeles is filled with iconic landmarks and diverse neighborhoods, perfect for capturing unforgettable moments. Here are the top Instagrammable spots in LA for your feed. Griffith Observatory With panoramic views of LA and the Hollywood Sign, this Art Deco gem is a photographer’s dream, especially at sunset. Tip: Capture the city skyline from the observatory or hike for a closer shot of the Hollywood Sign. The Getty Center This modern architectural marvel offers stunning city views and beautiful gardens. Tip: Snap the vibrant Central Garden and the interplay of light on the travertine buildings. Photo by Bernardo Ferrari on Unsplash Santa Monica Pier This classic seaside spot features a Ferris wheel, amusement park, and stunning sunsets. Tip: Capture the Ferris wheel silhouetted against the sunset. Venice Beach Famous for its boardwalk, street art, and bohemian vibe, Venice offers endless photo ops. The serene canals provide a quieter, picturesque setting. Tip: Explore the vibrant murals or take photos along the Venice Canals. The Broad & Walt Disney Concert Hall Downtown’s striking architectural pair – The Broad’s honeycomb façade and the shiny curves of the Walt Disney Concert Hall – create unique photo opportunities. Tip: Experiment with lighting reflections on the concert hall’s surfaces. LACMA Urban Light This popular installation of 202 vintage street lamps is iconic both day and night. Tip: Visit at twilight for a magical, illuminated shot. Runyon Canyon This scenic hike offers sweeping views of LA and the Pacific Ocean. Tip: Capture a sunrise or sunset for stunning cityscapes. Photo: Christian Kielberg Rodeo Drive A symbol of luxury, the palm-lined streets and designer boutiques provide a glamorous backdrop. Tip: Snap a shot with the iconic Rodeo Drive sign or chic storefronts. Photo: Caroline Hernandez The Last Bookstore Downtown’s whimsical book-filled space offers creative photo opportunities, including its famous book tunnel. Tip: Capture the view through the book tunnel for a literary-inspired shot. Mulholland Drive Winding through the Hollywood Hills, this road offers spectacular overlooks and cinematic city views, especially at night. Tip: Capture the skyline or the winding road for dramatic shots. Elysian Park Swing This hidden swing offers breathtaking views of downtown LA and the surrounding hills. Tip : Best at sunrise or sunset for magical lighting and city skyline framing. Photo: roberto-nickson Wisdom Tree & Cahuenga Peak A short hike rewards you with panoramic views! Tip : Capture dramatic shots of the tree with the city sprawling below at sunset. Photo: Andre Benz Lake Hollywood Park A relaxed spot with great close-up views of the Hollywood sign, perfect for a family outing. Tip : Frame the sign with greenery in the foreground for an iconic shot. Photo: Frances D'Vine Murals in DTLA (Arts District) Vibrant mural pops in photos, surrounded by more street art in the Arts District. Tip : Wear solid, bright colors to contrast with bold mural. Angels Flight This historic funicular adds vintage charm with its bright orange carriages in downtown LA.   Tip: Capture mid-ascent or descent for a dynamic, nostalgic shot. Photo by Eliot by Unsplash El Matador Beach (Malibu) Rugged cliffs and dramatic rock formations make for stunning beach shots. Tip : Capture golden hour with the rock arches for a perfect coastal frame.

When it comes to entertainment and sports, Los Angeles and its surrounding areas offer a treasure trove of iconic venues. Whether you're a local looking for a night out or a tourist seeking a memorable experience, here is a list of must-visit stadiums, arenas, and concert halls in Los Angeles, Greater LA, Long Beach, and Orange County. Plus, we'll recommend nearby hotels, event highlights, and transportation tips. Los Angeles Crypto Arena formerly called Staples Center (Downtown LA) Crypto.com Arena Photo Credit: Wikipedia Events: Home to the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers, as well as the NHL's Los Angeles Kings, this stadium is a mecca for sports fans. More popular sporting events held here include basketball & ice hockey. It also hosts chart-topping concerts, and shows. Capacity : 20,000 Where to Stay: Downtown Los Angeles boasts a vibrant hotel scene. Consider the luxurious JW Marriott , the opulent Ritz-Carlton , or the stylish Hotel Figueroa for your stay. Getting There: Accessible via the Metro's Blue and Expo Lines, rideshare services, and taxis. The venue provides convenient parking options GOOD TO KNOW L.A. Live: This is a sports and entertainment district that surrounds Crypto.com Arena and Peacock Theater (formerly called the Nokia Theater / Microsoft Theater). Find the Grammy Museum here as well as the West Coast flagship location of the Regal Cinema. It also houses the Lucky Strike Bowling alley Hollywood Bowl (Hollywood Hills) Hollywood Bowl, LA Photo credit: Wikipedia Events: Nestled in the Hollywood Hills, the Hollywood Bowl is synonymous with world-class concerts, classical music performances, enchanting movie nights, and unique special events. Capacity : 17,000+ Where to Stay : Immerse yourself in the Hollywood experience by choosing from a range of hotels in Hollywood or the nearby Hollywood Hills area. The historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel and the chic Loews Hollywood Hotel are excellent options. Getting There: Consider using rideshare services or parking in designated lots near the venue. The Hollywood Bowl also offers shuttle services Rose Bowl (Pasadena) Rose Bowl, LA. Photo credit: Wikipedia Events: The iconic Rose Bowl stadium hosts college football games, legendary concerts, the historic Rose Bowl Game, and a variety of special events. Capacity : 96,000+ (biggest venue in Los Angeles!) Where to Stay: Pasadena offers an array of hotels, including The Langham Huntington , Pasadena, and the Westin Pasadena . Getting There: Easily access the venue via rideshare services and taxis. The Rose Bowl provides on-site parking for attendees. Dodger Stadium (Chavez Ravine, Los Angeles) Dodger Stadium, LA Photo credit: Wikipedia Events: The iconic Dodger Stadium hosts thrilling MLB games with the Los Angeles Dodgers, electrifying concerts, and special events. Capacity : 57,000 Where to Stay: Stay in downtown Los Angeles, Echo Park, or Chinatown to access a variety of hotels, including the Omni Los Angeles Hotel and The Line Hotel . Getting There: Arrive via rideshare services, taxis, or public transportation. The stadium offers ample parking facilities for guests. Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum LA Memorial Coliseum. Photo credit: LAMC Instagram account Events: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum hosts a wide range of events, from thrilling NFL games to legendary concerts and major sporting events. It's also known for hosting the USC Trojans' college football games. Capacity: Approximately 77,500 Where to Stay : There are various accommodation options near the Coliseum, including hotels in downtown Los Angeles and the University Park area. Check out the USC Hotel which is about a 15 minute walk and some other downtown hotels such as the AC Hotel , and the Downtown LA Proper Hotel . Getting There : Easily accessible via the Metro's Expo Line, rideshare services, taxis, and public transportation. The venue offers parking for attendees. BMO Stadium BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. Photo credit: Wikipedia Events: BMO Stadium is home to the Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) and showcases thrilling MLS soccer matches, as well as concerts and other events. Capacity: Approximately 22,000 for soccer matches. Where to Stay : Discover accommodation options near downtown Los Angeles or the Exposition Park area. Ritz-Carlton is certainly a good option and so are AC Hotel , and the Downtown LA Proper Hotel . The Intercontinental is also a good choice! Getting There : Conveniently reach the stadium via rideshare services, taxis, or the Metro's Expo Line. Parking is available for attendees. Near the Los Angeles Airport (LAX) SoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA) SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles. Photo credit: Wikipedia Events : Home to NFL powerhouses, the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers, SoFi Stadium hosts electrifying NFL games, blockbuster concerts, and major sporting events. Capacity: 70,000+ Where to Stay: Find a comfortable stay near LAX, with options including Marriott, Hilton, and Sheraton properties. Airport hotels are generally cheaper. Check out Hilton LA Airport , The Westin LA Airport , or the Holiday Inn LAX . If you need a little more room / kitchenette, consider Residence Inn by Marriott LAX or Hyatt House LAX . Getting There : Accessible via rideshare services, taxis, or the Metro C Line (Green Line). Ample parking facilities are available. Kia Forum (Inglewood, CA) Kia Forum in LA, Photo credit: Wikipedia Events: Known for its legendary concerts, Kia Forum also hosts thrilling sporting events and captivating entertainment shows. Capacity : 17,500 Where to Stay : Choose from hotels near LAX or Inglewood, such as those lining Century Boulevard. Suggestions are same as above: Check out Hilton LA Airport , The Westin LA Airport , or the Holiday Inn LAX . If you need a little more room / kitchenette, consider Residence Inn by Marriott LAX or Hyatt House LAX . Getting There : Conveniently reach the venue via ride share services, taxis, or the Metro C Line (Green Line). Kia Forum provides parking for attendees. Long Beach Long Beach Arena (Convention and Entertainment Center) Long Beach Arena, LA Photo credit: Wikipedia Events: From electrifying concerts to large conventions, live performances, and side-splitting comedy shows, this venue has it all. Capacity : 13,500 Where to Stay : Find your perfect stay in downtown Long Beach, with options such as the upscale Hyatt Regency and the elegant Renaissance Long Beach Hotel . And of course, there is The Westin Long Beach - very fancy and pet-friendly! Getting There: Utilize rideshare services, taxis, or public transportation. Multiple parking garages are available nearby Dignity Health Sports Park (Carson, CA) Dignity Health, LA Photo credit: Wikipedia Events : Dignity Health Sports Park is home to the LA Galaxy soccer team and hosts exciting MLS matches, concerts, and various sporting events. It is on the campus of California State University, Dominguez Hills Capacity : 27,000 Where to Stay: Find hotels in Carson and Long Beach, including options near Long Beach Airport. The Hampton Inn LA is probably one of the closest chain hotels. About two miles away, find the Holiday Inn LA Gateway in Torrance and the DoubleTree by Hilton in Carson. Getting There : Consider rideshare services, taxis, or the Metro A Line (Blue Line) to reach the venue. On-site parking is available. Orange County Honda Center (Anaheim, CA) Honda Center, Anaheim. Photo credit: Wikipedia Events: Catch thrilling NHL games with the Anaheim Ducks, world-class concerts, family-friendly shows, and unique special events. Capacity : 18,900 Where to Stay : Opt for accommodation near Disneyland in Anaheim, offering a wide range of hotel choices, including the luxurious Disneyland Hotel and Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. The Ayres Hotel in Anaheim is close and highly rated. Other options are Hampton Inn at the Anaheim Resort Convention Center, Element and Clementine Hotel . Getting There: Easily access the venue via rideshare services, taxis, or public transit. The Honda Center offers ample parking for guests. Angel Stadium of Anaheim (Anaheim, CA) Angel Stadium, Anaheim. Photo credit: Wikipedia Events: Attend MLB games with the Los Angeles Angels, star-studded concerts, and adrenaline-pumping events like Monster Jam. Capacity : 45,000 Where to Stay : Choose from hotels near Disneyland such as the Anaheim Marriott . Some of the other popular choices include the same as above: the Disneyland Hotel and Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. The Ayres Hotel in Anaheim is highly rated. Other options are Hampton Inn at the Anaheim Resort Convention Center, Element and Clementine Hotel . Getting There : Reach the stadium via ride share services, taxis, or public transportation. The venue provides ample parking for attendees.

Los Angeles, often dubbed the "Entertainment Capital of the World," boasts a vibrant and multifaceted sports culture. Whether you're a passionate sports enthusiast or simply seeking an exhilarating night out, LA provides an extensive array of options to witness thrilling games. This guide will help you navigate the City of Angels' sports scene, covering baseball, basketball, ice hockey, soccer, and NFL games. Get tickets to see a baseball game In LA, we've got two awesome baseball teams: the LA Angels and the LA Dodgers. They both play at Dodger Stadium and Angel Stadium. But when it comes to the ultimate baseball vibe, Dodger Stadium is where it's at. It's right in Chavez Ravine, with the stunning San Gabriel Mountains as a backdrop. Watching a game with the legendary Los Angeles Dodgers, who've been around the block, is a total LA thing to do. The place buzzes with excitement, and don't forget to grab one of those classic "Dodger Dogs." The LA Angels are a big deal too, and they share the baseball love with the Dodgers. You can catch their games at Angel Stadium of Anaheim, which is super close to downtown LA. So, you've got two great teams to root for in the City of Angels. Get tickets to a NBA Game! You'll catch the Lakers, Clippers, and Sparks playing at either the Crypto.com Arena or the Honda Center. Now, when it comes to hoops action, the Crypto.com Arena in downtown LA is where it's at. The Lakers are like the kings of basketball with loads of championships and some mega-star players, so their games are always a blast with super hyped-up fans. The LA Clippers also bring the heat with their flashy moves and quick plays on the court. Plus, the Sparks are the city's WNBA team, and their games are all about showcasing top-notch women's basketball skills. It's a real slam dunk for fans of any age! Watch a fun game of ice hockey Los Angeles and nearby Anaheim have two cool ice hockey teams. The Los Angeles Kings play at the Crypto.com Arena, and they're all about fast action and going for that Stanley Cup. Over in Anaheim at the Honda Center, you've got the Anaheim Ducks, who bring their own excitement and lots of fans. Want to watch football? Explore the upcoming NFL games in Los Angeles When it comes to NFL action in LA, you've got two teams—the Los Angeles Rams and the Los Angeles Chargers—battling it out at SoFi Stadium. This stadium is a real showstopper, with top-notch facilities, and the capacity to host over 70,000 fans. It's the go-to spot for Rams and Chargers fans to catch all the thrilling NFL action right in the heart of Los Angeles. Check out the latest schedule Buy tickets that are already on sale! Check out the NFL Regular season tickets on StubHub . Catch a soccer game! For soccer enthusiasts, Los Angeles serves as an exciting hub of Major League Soccer (MLS) action. Two prominent teams share the spotlight in this vibrant soccer landscape: LAFC, based at Banc of California Stadium in downtown LA, and the LA Galaxy, who call Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson their home. Check out the Major League Soccer Tickets Buy Women's World Cup Soccer tickets on StubHub. Helpful Read: Guide to top entertainment and sports venues in the LA area + where to stay on your visit