Oh Minneapolis, you are beautiful. Travel isn’t just about new places — it’s about how movement, nature, and curiosity restore your sense of balance. We recently made a trip to the Twin Cities (Minneapolis / St. Paul). With family to visit and places to explore, it turned out to be a delightful adventure. The weather was perfect, and the people were incredibly warm and friendly. If you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore more of the Twin Cities, this guide brings together the best of Minneapolis and St. Paul — from outdoor landmarks and cultural sites to restaurants and neighborhoods worth staying in. You’ll find: 🌳 Outdoor experiences — parks, lakes, bridges, and scenic trails that define Minneapolis living. 🎨 Art and architecture highlights — sculpture gardens, university installations, and modern museums. 🍴 Vegetarian-friendly dining — local favorites like Owamni, Nico’s Taco & Tequila Bar, and Kumar’s Minneapolis. 🏨 Neighborhoods and hotels — detailed suggestions for staying Downtown, in the North Loop, or near the University. ❄️ Seasonal tips — what to expect (and enjoy) during Minneapolis’s snowy winters. Photo credit: Nicole Geri on Unsplash things to do Chain of Lakes Regional Park This park is a gem within the Minneapolis park system and part of the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway. It's perfect for biking, boating, and picnicking. Whether you're a kayaker, canoeist, or stand-up paddleboarder, you'll find this area delightful. The park consists of five major lakes: Lake Harriet, Bde Maka Ska, Lake of the Isles, Cedar Lake, and Brownie Lake, each offering unique recreational opportunities. For more information, including boat rentals, visit the Minneapolis Park and Recreation site. The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden Check this out! The garden features works from the Walker Art Center’s renowned collection of modern and contemporary art set in an urban park. Iconic sculptures include the famous "Spoonbridge and Cherry" by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, as well as works by other renowned artists such as Alexander Calder and Ellsworth Kelly. It's a visual treat and a great spot for a leisurely stroll. Stone Arch Bridge Feel the power and sound of the water! Walking the length of this bridge is quite an experience. Explore nearby attractions like the Mill City Museum, which delves into the history of Minneapolis as a flour milling capital, and the stunning interiors of the Guthrie Theater, which offers impressive views from its Endless Bridge. "The Stone Arch Bridge is the only bridge of its kind over the Mississippi River. Made of native granite and limestone, it measures 2,100 feet long by 28 feet wide, featuring 23 arches spanning the river below St. Anthony Falls." (Source: NPS.GOV) The George Floyd Memorial Drive to the square, park, and walk down to this significant site. "The intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in South Minneapolis, where George Floyd's death occurred, has become a gathering place for reflection and tribute. This area, known as George Floyd Square, is an essential space for racial healing and justice, drawing visitors from around the world." (Source: Minneapolis.org) University of Minnesota Disappearing Statues Experience art through the lens of quantum physics with the Spannungsfeld installation. “My design for the University of Minnesota’s new Physics and Nanotechnology Building is inspired by viewing the human body through quantum physics. 'Spannungsfeld' features two 10-foot figures in a kneeling pose, representing nature’s pairs of opposites, a fundamental aspect of both Western science and Eastern traditions.” (Source: Julian Voss-Andreae) While on campus, check out the Weisman Art Museum and other fascinating buildings. The museum, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, houses a vast collection of modern art, ceramics, and traditional Korean furniture. From Wikipedia: "The University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus is located in Minneapolis and Falcon Heights, a suburb of St. Paul, approximately 3 miles apart. It's the oldest and largest campus in the University of Minnesota system and has the ninth-largest main campus student body in the United States." Got More Time? Check Out These Spots! Minnehaha Falls: This 53-foot-high waterfall in Minnehaha Park attracts thousands of tourists each year. The park also offers biking and walking trails, a disc golf course, and the historic Minnehaha Depot. Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA): Home to over 90,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years, MIA is one of the largest art museums in the U.S. It features collections from various cultures, including Asian, African, and Native American art. Guthrie Theater: Whether catching a show or just touring the impressive facility, it’s worth a visit. The theater offers backstage tours that give insight into its history and architecture. Capital Building and Cathedral: Drive by these stunning structures. The Minnesota State Capitol, with its beautiful dome, and the Cathedral of Saint Paul, one of the most prominent cathedrals in the U.S., are both architectural marvels. Restaurants: Vegetarian-Friendly Delights We found some amazing vegetarian-friendly restaurants that are definitely worth mentioning! Owamni: A full-service indigenous restaurant by the Sioux Chef. The menu features decolonized ingredients, highlighting the foods of Mini Sota Make (Land where the waters reflect the clouds). Located on OwamniYomni, a sacred site of peace for the Dakota and Anishinaabe people. Make sure to reserve a table! This restaurant won the 2022 James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant. Nico's Taco and Tequila Bar: Inspired by traditional Mexican street food, Chef Alejandro Victoria brings authentic recipes from Michoacan to life. Their salsas are a must-try! Kumar's Minneapolis: Specializing in South Indian cuisine, this restaurant is a gem. Having won Best Indian Food in Dallas for five years, Kumar's is now impressing diners in Minneapolis. It also won the 2021 Star Tribune Best Indian Restaurant award. Best Areas to Stay in Minneapolis on your Visit 1. Downtown Minneapolis Photo by Gregory Hayes on Unsplash Downtown Minneapolis is the bustling heart of the city, offering a vibrant mix of culture, entertainment, and dining. This area is home to some of the city's most iconic attractions, including the Mill City Museum and the Minneapolis Convention Center. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Mississippi Riverfront, explore the historic Stone Arch Bridge, and catch a game or concert at Target Center or U.S. Bank Stadium. The Skyway System, an extensive network of climate-controlled pedestrian walkways, connects many buildings downtown, making it easy to explore the area regardless of the weather. Foodies will delight in the diverse culinary scene that downtown Minneapolis has to offer. From upscale dining at establishments like Manny's Steakhouse to casual bites at Nicollet Mall's food trucks, there's something for every palate. The area is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues such as First Avenue, where Prince famously performed. For those who love shopping, the Nicollet Mall offers a range of retail options, while the nearby North Loop neighborhood is renowned for its boutique shops and trendy cafes. In addition to its dining and entertainment options, Downtown Minneapolis is also a hub for arts and culture. The Guthrie Theater, with its striking architecture and renowned performances, is a must-visit for theater enthusiasts. The Walker Art Center and its adjacent Minneapolis Sculpture Garden offer a delightful blend of contemporary art and beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you're taking in a Broadway show, exploring world-class museums, or simply enjoying the urban landscape, Downtown Minneapolis has something to offer every traveler. Downtown: Where to stay The Hotel Ivy: The Hotel Ivy is an upscale, sophisticated hotel highly rated for its elegance and impeccable service. It has received the prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award, showcasing its commitment to luxury. Guests can indulge in a full-service spa, maintain their fitness routine at the state-of-the-art fitness center, and savor exquisite meals at the on-site Monello Restaurant. The hotel is also pet-friendly, making it a perfect choice for travelers with furry companions. While valet parking is available for a fee, the hotel's prime location places it close to Nicollet Mall and the Minneapolis Convention Center, offering easy access to shopping and business facilities. The Marquette Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton: The Marquette Hotel, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, is highly rated for its stylish ambiance and prime location. Recognized with the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, this hotel features modern rooms with stunning city views. Guests can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant and bar, stay active in the fitness center, and bring their pets along as the hotel is pet-friendly. Both valet and self-parking are available for a fee. Its convenient location near Target Center and U.S. Bank Stadium makes it an excellent choice for both business and leisure travelers. AC Hotel by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown The AC Hotel by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown offers sleek, modern accommodations highly rated for comfort and convenience. This pet-friendly hotel features a fitness center, an on-site AC Lounge serving tapas and drinks, and provides complimentary Wi-Fi. While valet and self-parking are available for a fee, its central location near Target Field and the Warehouse District makes it a convenient base for exploring the city. 2. North Loop The North Loop, also known as the Warehouse District, is a trendy and rapidly growing neighborhood that has become a hotspot for locals and visitors alike. This area is characterized by its historic warehouses that have been converted into chic lofts, boutiques, and some of the city's best restaurants. North Loop is home to Target Field, where you can catch a Minnesota Twins game, and it's also close to the Minneapolis Farmers Market, perfect for picking up fresh local produce and artisanal goods. Photo by Klemens Köpfle on Unsplash The dining scene in North Loop is exceptional, with acclaimed restaurants like Spoon and Stable offering farm-to-table cuisine. The area is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a plethora of bars and breweries such as Inbound BrewCo and Modist Brewing Co. For those who enjoy shopping, the North Loop offers a variety of unique boutiques and stores, from men's fashion at MartinPatrick3 to contemporary home goods at The Foundry Home Goods. This neighborhood combines historic charm with modern amenities, making it a must-visit area in Minneapolis. Beyond its food and nightlife, the North Loop also offers a rich cultural experience. The neighborhood is home to several art galleries and design studios, reflecting its creative spirit. North Loop is also a great place for outdoor activities, with the nearby Mississippi Riverfront providing scenic trails for walking, running, and biking. The area hosts various events throughout the year, including street festivals and farmers' markets, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. North Loop: Where to stay Hewing Hotel: The Hewing Hotel is a boutique gem highly rated for its unique charm and extensive amenities. It has received the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award, highlighting its popularity among travelers. Guests can relax in the rooftop spa and lounge, offering stunning city views, or take a dip in the indoor pool and sauna. The on-site restaurant and bar provide excellent dining options, while the fitness center ensures guests can stay active. The hotel is pet-friendly, and valet parking is available for a fee. Located near Target Field and the Minneapolis Farmers Market, it’s perfect for visitors wanting a distinctive and memorable stay. Element Minneapolis Downtown: The Element Minneapolis Downtown is highly rated for its eco-friendly features and comfortable accommodations. This pet-friendly hotel offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes, making it ideal for longer stays. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning and stay fit in the on-site fitness center. Valet parking is available for a fee, and complimentary Wi-Fi is provided. Its location near Target Field and The Fillmore Minneapolis makes it a convenient and sustainable choice for travelers. TownePlace Suites by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown/North Loop: TownePlace Suites by Marriott Minneapolis Downtown/North Loop is highly rated for its extended-stay convenience and comfortable accommodations. This pet-friendly hotel features suites with full kitchens, allowing guests to feel at home. A complimentary breakfast is provided, and guests can stay active in the fitness center. Both valet and self-parking are available for a fee, and complimentary Wi-Fi is offered throughout the property. Located near Target Field and North Loop shopping, it’s an excellent choice for both short and long stays. 3. University Area University of Minnesota The University Area, centered around the University of Minnesota, offers a youthful and energetic atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a blend of academic and cultural experiences. This area is home to several notable attractions, including the Weisman Art Museum, known for its striking architecture and impressive collection of modern art. Huntington Bank Stadium, the home of the Minnesota Golden Gophers football team, is also located here, making it a lively spot on game days. Food and drink options abound in the University Area, with a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants catering to students and visitors. From the vibrant flavors of Dinkytown's diverse eateries to the cozy charm of Espresso Royale, there's something for everyone. The area also boasts a lively nightlife, with numerous bars and live music venues. For those interested in shopping, the nearby Stadium Village offers a mix of local shops and national retailers. The University Area provides a unique blend of academic vigor and cultural richness, making it an exciting place to stay and explore. Adding to its appeal, the University Area is a hub for intellectual and cultural activities. The Bell Museum of Natural History offers fascinating exhibits on the natural world, while the nearby Williams Arena and Mariucci Arena host thrilling basketball and hockey games. The University of Minnesota's campus itself is a beautiful place to wander, with its mix of historic and modern architecture, green spaces, and the scenic Mississippi River running alongside it. University Area: Where to stay Graduate Minneapolis: Graduate Minneapolis is a chic, university-themed hotel highly rated for its stylish decor and excellent service. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations with a unique academic flair, perfect for visiting students and their families. Guests can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant and bar, maintain their workout routine in the fitness center, and bring their pets along as the hotel is pet-friendly. Valet parking is available for a fee, and complimentary Wi-Fi is provided. Its prime location on campus, near the Weisman Art Museum, makes it an ideal base for exploring the University area. Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis University Area: Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis University Area is highly rated for its convenience and value. This hotel offers a complimentary breakfast each morning, ensuring a great start to the day. Guests can relax in the indoor pool, stay fit in the fitness center, and enjoy free parking. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. Its location near the University of Minnesota and TCF Bank Stadium makes it a great choice for visitors to the campus. Home2 Suites By Hilton Minneapolis University Area: This hotel is located near U.S. Bank Stadium and Huntington Bank Stadium. The hotel offers convenient amenities including laundry facilities, a bar, a gym, and a 24-hour business center, along with in-room WiFi. Guests can enjoy additional features like an indoor pool, self-parking (with a surcharge), ATM/banking services, and coffee/tea in the lobby. The property also provides luggage storage, an elevator, a TV in the lobby, a computer station, and a 24-hour front desk. Each of the 112 rooms is equipped with laptop-friendly workspaces, air conditioning, and high ratings for cleanliness. Rooms come with bathrooms featuring tubs or showers, hair dryers, and kitchenettes with full-sized refrigerators/freezers and dishwashers. Understanding the Twin Cities: Minneapolis and St. Paul Why Are They Called the Twin Cities? Minneapolis and St. Paul are often referred to as the "Twin Cities" because of their close geographical proximity and their status as the two largest cities in Minnesota. Separated by the Mississippi River, these cities have distinct personalities and histories but function as a single metropolitan area. The term "Twin Cities" highlights their interdependence and their shared economic, cultural, and transportation links. Where Do People Live? Both cities offer diverse living options. Minneapolis features vibrant neighborhoods like Downtown, perfect for young professionals with its high-rise apartments and bustling nightlife; Uptown, known for its trendy bars and shops; Northeast, a historic area with a strong arts community; and family-friendly Southwest neighborhoods like Linden Hills. St. Paul offers the historic charm of Downtown with modern apartments and cultural institutions; Summit Hill with its historic mansions; Highland Park, a family-friendly area with parks and schools; and the trendy Lowertown with its growing arts scene. Differences Between Minneapolis and St. Paul Minneapolis has a modern, cosmopolitan vibe with sleek skyscrapers, a thriving tech scene, and a rich arts culture featuring venues like the Walker Art Center and First Avenue. St. Paul, in contrast, has a historic, traditional feel with well-preserved architecture and a quieter atmosphere. It serves as the political center of Minnesota with attractions like the Minnesota State Capitol and the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. Where to Visit in the Twin Cities In Minneapolis, must-visit spots include the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Mill City Museum, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, and the Chain of Lakes for outdoor activities. St. Paul's highlights include the Minnesota State Capitol, the free Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, the stunning Cathedral of Saint Paul, and the historic mansions along Summit Avenue. Joint attractions between the cities include the Minnesota Zoo, Minnehaha Park with its beautiful falls, and the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, offering a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views. Gold Medal Flour Minneapolis - Photo by Weston m on Unsplash Winter in Minneapolis: Embracing the Cold How Cold Does It Get? Minneapolis experiences some of the coldest winters in the U.S., with temperatures often plummeting well below freezing. December through February sees average lows ranging from -10°F to 10°F (-23°C to -12°C), and it’s not uncommon for temperatures to dip even lower during particularly harsh cold spells. Snow is also a regular feature, with the city receiving an average of about 54 inches (137 cm) annually. Is It a Good Idea to Visit Minneapolis in the winter? Visiting Minneapolis in winter can be a unique and enjoyable experience if you're prepared for the cold. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with opportunities for ice skating, sledding, and enjoying festive holiday lights. The winter season also brings fewer crowds to popular attractions, making it a great time to explore the city's cultural sites without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist seasons. How Do People Keep Warm? Residents and visitors alike have a variety of strategies to stay warm in Minneapolis. Buildings and public spaces are well-heated, and people often dress in layers, including insulated jackets, thermal undergarments, hats, gloves, and scarves. Many locals use the Skyway System, an extensive network of enclosed pedestrian walkways that connect buildings downtown, allowing people to move around without having to face the harsh winter weather. Precautions to Take When visiting Minneapolis in winter, it's crucial to dress appropriately for the cold. Layers are essential, as they trap heat and allow you to adjust your comfort level. Waterproof and insulated boots are a must to keep your feet warm and dry. It’s also wise to check the weather forecast regularly, as conditions can change rapidly, and be prepared for snow or ice on sidewalks and roads. If driving, ensure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires and an emergency kit. Winter Activities Despite the cold, Minneapolis offers a range of winter activities that make the season enjoyable: Ice Skating: Popular spots include the Wells Fargo WinterSkate rink in downtown and the iconic Minneapolis Sculpture Garden rink. Skiing and Snowboarding: Nearby areas like Afton Alps and Hyland Hills offer excellent slopes for winter sports enthusiasts. Sledding: Local parks such as Powderhorn Park and Theodore Wirth Park are great for sledding. Winter Festivals: Events like the St. Paul Winter Carnival celebrate the season with ice sculptures, parades, and outdoor activities.

Hawaii is the perfect destination to explore unique natural beauty in style. And though small, these islands offer so much to witness and experience! After all, there are 137 islands comprising the state. However, Oahu, Kauai, Hawaii, and Maui are the most popular to visit. Photo by Drew Farwell on Unsplash Today, we’re going to discuss Oahu, an island of unparalleled beauty and diversity. If you’re planning your perfect Hawaiian vacation and want to pay this island a visit, read on to discover how many days you need to explore Oahu. What To Prioritize Exploring in Oahu Before we discuss how much time you need on the island, let’s review the island’s top attractions. Your ideal timeline will depend on how many of these attractions you want to experience. Oahu is home to the capital city of Hawaii, Honolulu, which has plenty of unique city features and museums to explore. For one, first-time visitors should not miss the iconic Iolani Palace. This grand palace is a restored museum that highlights some of the most interesting facts about Hawaiian monarchies and their history. Exploring this National Landmark is a must-see for new visitors. The volcanic landscapes of Diamond Head State Monument are also worth visiting, particularly at sunrise. Hikes in this location will give you some of the most stunning views on the island. Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu, United States. Photo by Christian Joudrey on Unsplash And this wouldn’t be a magazine article about Hawaii if we didn’t mention the island’s vibrant coral reefs, teeming with marine life. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Hanauma Bay is perfect for enjoying this activity. Hanauma Bay. Photo by Cosmin Serban on Unsplash Additionally, though the island is best known for its nature, Oahu is also home to historical sites such as the Pearl Harbor National Museum. Consider taking some time to visit this memorial with audio guided tours that reflect on this wartime in history. The Ideal Stay Oahu, Hawaii. Photo by Peter Thomas on Unsplash Now that you know the top things to see in Oahu, let’s dive into how many days you need to explore the island. To truly savor everything, a stay of seven to 10 days is ideal. This duration allows you to leisurely explore both popular attractions and the hidden treasures off the beaten path. You’ll have ample time to appreciate Oahu’s diverse landscapes, from its lush valleys to its sunny, sand-laden shores. Ultimately, many people who visit Oahu say they wish they stayed for longer. Therefore, if you can carve out the time in your vacation schedule, prioritize plenty of time on the island. The Bare Minimum Oahu, Hawaii. Photo by Sandy Jiang on Unsplash Does spending a week on Oahu sound too long for you? If you’re planning under stricter time restraints, you don’t have to forgo visiting Oahu’s beauty. With three to four days, you can efficiently explore some of Oahu’s highlights without feeling too rushed. This timeframe can accommodate a visit to the magnificent Manoa Falls at dawn and a taste of Lanikai or Kailua beach. For travelers with truly limited time, even planning a day trip to Oahu, Kauai, or Maui from the Big Island can be enough. You’ll still be able to explore either the Koko Crater Arch Trail or Waikiki beach, along with spending time in the historic towns. Overall, longer stays on Oahu are better than shorter ones. However, if you’re wanting to make a quick visit and centralize your vacation on the main island, then shorter or even day trips are possible. Regardless of how long you stay, going to Oahu means you’re in for a treat.

Colorado is at the top of many nature lovers’ travel lists, and there’s no questioning why. The state boasts some spectacular vistas and unique geography, culminating in the ever-famous Rocky Mountain National Park. If you want to visit this state to enjoy nature and some upscale vacationing, we know just what to recommend. Here are some high-end experiences to enjoy in Colorado. Staying at an Aspen Ski Resort Aspen is the most expensive ski town in the US, and part of that is due to the many luxury resorts there. That’s great news for you as someone who wants to explore nature in style. During the winter, you can indulge in world-class skiing. You’ll spend your days carving through fresh powder on the slopes and your evenings relaxing in elegant lodges with cozy fireplaces and top-tier service. And the fun doesn’t end when ski season does! There are many ways to enjoy Colorado ski resorts in the summer, so you can take advantage of the experience all year round. Enjoying a Private Denver Food Tour Large cities usually attract a diverse, delicious culinary scene, and Denver is no exception. Though the city offers plenty of upscale dining options at your fingertips, you can fully immerse yourself in the experience by booking a private food tour. Knowledgeable guides will lead you through Denver’s trendy neighborhoods, introducing you to local chefs and their unique creations. This intimate experience provides insight into the city’s gastronomic identity while catering to your palate for luxury. Stepping Aboard the Rocky Mountaineer The Rocky Mountaineer is a multi-day train service that takes vacationers through breathtaking Rocky Mountain scenery and pairs it with high-end dining, luxury accommodations, and award-winning service. The company operates four routes, and one travels through Denver. You’ll get to sit back and relax as you watch the awe-inspiring alpine scenery pass by the train’s large, curved windows. Rising Above on a PRIVATE Hot Air Balloon Flight If you want a bird’s-eye view of the majestic state, take flight in a private hot air balloon. Your journey will begin with a breathtaking view of Colorado’s landscape. You’ll witness the Rockies, fields of wildflowers, and charming towns below. The private tour finishes with a luxurious and celebratory champagne toast. It is a truly unforgettable experience. Enjoy these high-end experiences in Colorado if you want a vacation that satisfies your love for nature and luxury. We hope you found something to inspire your future travels.

Pura Vita is a 100 percent plant-based Italian restaurant and wine bar created by Chef Tara Punzone , who built her career on bringing the heart of Southern Italian cooking to vegan dining. The Redondo Beach location follows the success of the original West Hollywood restaurant and mirrors its focus on organic ingredients , traditional Italian recipes , and sustainable, plant-forward cooking methods . Every dish here is entirely vegan , including handmade pastas, sauces, desserts, and natural or biodynamic wines. The atmosphere feels relaxed and coastal, reflecting its South Bay setting while staying true to the brand’s Italian roots. Popular Dishes Carbonara Pasta – a plant-based version of the classic Roman favorite, creamy and rich. Spaghetti, avocado egg and macadamia romano cream, shiitake bacon. GF option available. Carbonara at Pura Vita in Redondo Beach, CA Pomodoro Pasta – simple and bright, made with house tomato sauce and fresh herbs. GF option available. Pomodoro at Pura Vita in Redondo Beach, CA Cesare Salad – a crisp, vegan twist on the traditional Caesar. Massaged Tuscan kale, roasted garbanzo, lemon almond dressing, garlic croutons, macadamia parmigiano. Gluten-free option available. Cesare salad at Pura Vita Redondo Beach, CA Black Magic Bianca Pizza – the restaurant’s signature white pizza, a customer favorite. Cashew ricotta, cashew mozzarella, crimini mushroom, black truffle cream sauce, pesto and micro basil. Gluten-free option available. Black Magic White Pizza at Pura Vita, Los Angeles Here are their most popular drinks: Margarita Blanco tequila, fresh squeezed lime juice, agave Spicy Margarita pictured with fresh jalapeño at Pura Vita Wine Querciabella Mongrana Super Tuscan wine Super Tuscan 2019 . Querciabella “Mongrana” . Toscana Certified Organic, Biodynamic 📍 Pura Vita Redondo Beach 1301 S Pacific Coast Hwy, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 🌱 Cuisine: Plant-Based Italian 🍷 Features: Wine Bar • Organic Ingredients • Vegan Menu 👩‍🍳 Chef: Tara Punzone Photo credit: @roxyrockstv

Traditional cooking methods. Delicious food. This place is a find. Eatalian Café in Gardena is very unassuming — tucked in a super industrial area, with no obvious signs and a warehouse feel, but once inside, it’s simply great food. The restaurant is a pretty large facility that serves crispy-thin Italian-style pizzas, decent-size portions, great gelatos and desserts, and good wine. The servers are nice, and it’s also a great spot for vegetarians. They also deliver. Once, we got food delivered from Eatalian to LA Ale Works, a local brewery with indoor and outdoor spaces. It took a bit of planning ahead and scheduling the delivery, but everything arrived perfectly. 📍 15500 S Broadway, Gardena, CA 90248 📞 (310) 532-8880

For South Bay locals looking for a quick sugar fix — for kids before school, for office treats, or just because — here’s a handy roundup of donut spots and long-standing bakeries across Manhattan Beach, El Segundo, Hermosa, Redondo, and Torrance . And if all else fails, remember: most local grocery stores in the South Bay carry fresh donuts daily , so you’re never too far from something sweet. Photo credit: Unsplash Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee (Manhattan Beach) 3026 N Sepulveda Blvd, Ste G-110, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Fresh, made-from-scratch doughnuts and vegan options . Still the most “elevated” donut option in the area. Randy’s Donuts (El Segundo) 2181 Rosecrans Ave, El Segundo, CA 90245 (310) 616-3406 Hours: 6 a.m.–8 p.m. weekdays, 6 a.m.–9 p.m. weekends Dozens range from $20.80–$42.40 Most popular: glazed raised For large orders: catering@randysdonuts.com IG: @randysdonuts (Their Inglewood original is 24/7, but El Segundo isn’t.) Dough Boy Donuts (El Segundo) 204 E Imperial Ave, El Segundo, CA 90245 Classic neighborhood donut shop Lucky’s Donuts (El Segundo) 964 Main St, El Segundo, CA Another local option if you want something closer to downtown El Segundo. Torrance Bakery (Torrance) 1341 El Prado Ave, Torrance, CA 90501 Family-owned since the ’80s, super local, and yes — they do donuts and even sell assorted dozens Redondough (Redondo Beach) 1218 Beryl St, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Hybrid bakery/café with donuts, pastries, and sandwiches Moon Donuts (Redondo/Torrance border) 1000 Torrance Blvd Ste E, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (310) 543-1867 Niko’s Donuts (Redondo Beach) 2429 190th St, Redondo Beach, CA 90278 Best Donuts (Hermosa Beach) 2514 Pacific Coast Hwy, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 Becker’s Bakery (Manhattan Beach) Manhattan Beach has a few bakeries that have been around forever — Becker’s Bakery is one of the better-known - It’s more of a bakery than a straight donut shop, but people go there in the mornings. Dunkin’ (Manhattan Beach) 1100 N. Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Are you a beer enthusiast or simply looking to explore local LA culture ? Check out these South Bay beer gardens, breweries, and tasting rooms — each offering its own mix of small-batch craftsmanship, relaxed vibes, and great community energy. Photo credit: Unsplash LA Ale Works Love this spot. It has a huge indoor and outdoor space , with locations in Hawthorne and Culver City . Expect food trucks, great beer, and dog-friendly areas . Perfect for game nights or casual hangouts. Project Barley Beer, live music , and pizza — what more could you ask for? A family-friendly environment with three locations in Lomita, Torrance, and Redondo Beach . Great beer, wine, and genuinely lovely people. Common Space A lovely spot with a particularly inviting outdoor area . The ambience is relaxed and social, and they host lots of local events . Open seven days a week and both child- and pet-friendly. Monkish A Torrance favorite for craft beer lovers . Enjoy Belgian beers, IPAs, and sours in their indoor and outdoor tasting spaces . Both child- and dog-friendly — a great place to spend an afternoon. Smog City An award-winning Torrance brewery known for its creative craft beers and commitment to sustainability . They often feature food trucks , making it an easy local favorite. El Segundo Brewing Located right on Main Street in El Segundo , this independent, locally owned brewery features an amazing tap list and a regular food truck schedule . A classic South Bay stop for serious beer drinkers. Hermosa Brewing With locations in both Torrance and Hermosa Beach , this brewery offers great beer alongside a full food menu . Their Hermosa location is right in the middle of all the action — perfect for pairing lagers, IPAs, or pilsners with ocean air. Culture Brewing Co A new tasting room in Manhattan Beach , with two other award-winning locations near San Diego . It’s an open, airy space perfect for relaxed evenings and tasting flights. Each of these breweries celebrates what the South Bay does best — good company, coastal sunshine, and quality beer. Whether you’re hopping between Torrance and Hermosa or settling into a local favorite, you’ll find that every pour here tells its own California story.

What drives someone to spend eight years in Italy to master the art and science of traditional pasta making? That question stayed with us when we first heard about Chef Evan Funke — and ever since, we’d been waiting for the right moment to try his food. When he opened Felix in Venice, CA in 2017, and since it’s close to where we live, it immediately became a must-visit. After months of patient efforts , we finally got a Sunday evening reservation . We dressed up, we were excited, and we were not disappointed. The service was impeccable , and the staff was attentive the whole time. We started with drinks — a Negroni and a nice wine. Our appetizer was the standout: the Sfincione — focaccia Siciliana with rosemary, sea salt, and olive oil. It was a cloud of perfection , full of air bubbles, beautiful to cut into, and honestly unforgettable. We also ordered a Margherita pizza with fior di latte (fresh cow’s milk mozzarella), basil, Pomodoro, and olive oil. The crust was lovely and the pizza melted in the mouth. But the real highlight was the two vegetarian pasta dishes : Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe — pasta with black pepper and pecorino Romano from Central Italy Trofie — a pasta from Northern Italy, served with an outstanding pesto At Felix, “al dente” takes on a whole new meaning. Both pastas had a slightly chewy texture, and both were fantastic. I absolutely loved this experience and would go back to celebrate a birthday or an anniversary. Felix is definitely still on my mind.

Tito's Tacos is a popular Mexican fast-food restaurant located in Culver City, a neighborhood in the west side of Los Angeles, California. The address is 11222 Washington Pl, Culver City, CA 90230. Not too many vegetarian items, I am afraid. But yes for tamales . Read along. Tito's Parking Lot, LA The restaurant has been around since 1959 and is a local icon in the Los Angeles area. It is a casual, no-frills spot with limited indoor and outdoor seating. Lines can get long during peak hours, so be prepared to wait. Tito's Tacos is known for their crispy hard-shell tacos filled with seasoned ground beef, shredded lettuce, and grated cheese. They also offer other Mexican dishes such as burritos, tamales, and tostadas. Their salsa and guacamole are also quite popular. Although the shop serves mostly meat-based dishes, you will notice some vegetarian-looking options on their menu, including a bean and cheese burrito, a cheese enchilada, and a cheese tostada. They also offer sides like chips and guacamole, chips and salsa, and a side of beans. Vegetarians BEWARE - Know that every item except the tamales have beans cooked in lard. Even their chips! Some of us don't care. Some of us do. BUT GO FOR THE TAMALES!! Tito's vegetarian vegetable tamales are awesome , especially when you put the hot and cold sauces on the top! And they are vegetarian-friendly, no lard. Remember to ask them before you order! What are tamales? While tamales are a traditional dish in many Latin American countries, each country has its own unique variation on this delicious and popular dish. In some cases, the differences are subtle, while in others, they can be quite distinct. In Mexico, tamales are typically made with masa (corn dough) and are filled with various ingredients such as chicken, pork, or beans, along with spices and chilies. They are then steamed and served with salsa or other condiments In Colombia, tamales are larger and are made with cornmeal and a variety of fillings, such as chicken, pork, beef, potatoes, and vegetables. They are typically wrapped in banana leaves and steamed, and are often served with hot chocolate or coffee In Peru, tamales are called "humitas" and are made with fresh corn, onion, garlic, and chili pepper. They are typically wrapped in corn husks and steamed, and are often served with aji sauce In Ecuador, tamales are often made with a mixture of cornmeal and mashed potatoes, and are filled with pork, chicken, or vegetables. They are wrapped in banana leaves and boiled or steamed, and are often served with hot sauce or ají. This is a photo of Tito's tamales. Vegetarian tamales at Tito's in Los Angeles

In our family, birthdays aren’t about gifts — they’re about making memories around good food . Every year, we pick one special restaurant and make it the centerpiece of the day. This time, we chose Scopa Italian Roots in Venice — a spot that feels equally right for a romantic dinner , a birthday celebration , or a night out with friends . What sets Scopa apart is that it’s led by Chef Antonia Lofaso , whose cooking brings the heart of New York–style Italian cuisine to the West Coast. Having spent years in New York, that flavor nostalgia hit home for us. The ingredients are fresh, the flavors simple and bold, and the energy of the space feels effortlessly sophisticated — warm lighting, laughter from nearby tables, and the scent of fresh herbs drifting from the kitchen. What We Ordered Fried Cauliflower with lemon, chives, and parmesan Rigatoni Pasta with vodka sauce, chili flakes, basil, and fresh ricotta Chitarra Pasta with pecorino and black pepper Ravioli with corn, mascarpone, parmesan, and basil Of these, the Rigatoni in vodka sauce was the undeniable winner — creamy, spicy, and perfectly comforting. And Then Came Dessert Just when we thought we were done, the server surprised us with a tricolor cake , echoing the Italian flag — a charming nod to the occasion. We also tried: Spumoni , the classic trio of pistachio, cherry, and chocolate Affogato , a shot of espresso poured over vanilla gelato — simple, elegant, and the perfect finale If You Go Reservations: Highly recommended (available via RESY ) Pricing: $$$ (expect fine-dining portions and quality) Best For: Birthdays, date nights, or small celebrations Address: 2905 W. Washington Place, Venice, CA 90292 Hours: Dinner: Daily, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. Weekend Brunch: Saturday & Sunday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Scopa Italian Roots manages to feel both elevated and familiar — the kind of restaurant where celebrations feel remembered. Whether you go for the pasta, the desserts, or simply the feeling, this Venice favorite makes any occasion feel like family dinner done right.

When we first moved to Los Angeles, we made our way to a little town called Calabasas . My daughter, naturally, was hoping to spot a Kardashian — or maybe Miley Cyrus, Britney Spears, Justin Bieber, or Selena Gomez. After all, that’s where they all live.Imagine her disappointment when she saw no one. My goal, on the other hand, was much simpler — to check out a local favorite called Pedalers Fork . And disappointed I was not. This Calabasas gem still rocks a full-on bike theme , from its name to the décor (yes, even the restrooms are photo-worthy). There’s both indoor and outdoor seating, a lively bar, and a bike shop tucked in the back — a detail that always makes me smile. They roast their own coffee beans on-site, and the aroma alone is reason enough to stop by. Breakfast here is a must. We ordered a few brunch staples and couldn’t resist their fresh orange-juice mimosas — sunshine in a glass. For families, here’s a standout touch: the kids’ coloring sheet is giant-sized. My daughter loved it — finally, something that keeps little hands busy long enough for parents to enjoy an uninterrupted meal. The service is fantastic , the food consistently great, and the vibe is exactly what Calabasas does best — casual comfort with a dash of style. Whether you ride in on two wheels or just stroll down from The Commons, Pedalers Fork is the kind of place that makes weekend mornings in LA feel a little slower, and a lot better.

Los Angeles, a city synonymous with style and innovation, offers a diverse shopping landscape. From high-end luxury boutiques to unique finds and cutting-edge fashion, LA caters to every taste and preference. Here’s a refined guide to the city’s premier shopping destinations, blending opulence with trendsetting flair. Iconic Luxury Hotspots Photo by Caroline Hernandez on Unsplash Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills Rodeo Drive is the epitome of luxury shopping in Los Angeles. This illustrious street is home to an array of prestigious fashion houses, including Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel. The street's glamorous ambiance and sophisticated window displays provide a quintessential luxury shopping experience, making it a must-visit for discerning shoppers. The Grove, West Hollywood The Grove combines luxury with an outdoor atmosphere, creating a distinctive shopping experience. With upscale retailers like Gucci and Tiffany & Co., alongside popular stores such as Apple, The Grove offers a lively environment perfect for both high-end shopping and leisure. The historic trolley and diverse entertainment options enhance its appeal. Beverly Center, Beverly Hills The Beverly Center is a modern shopping haven that merges luxury with contemporary fashion. Recent renovations have brought a fresh look to this iconic center, which features high-end brands like Gucci, Prada, and Balenciaga. The center’s sleek design and extensive range of fashion offerings cater to those seeking both classic elegance and contemporary style. Montana Avenue, Santa Monica Montana Avenue provides an intimate and sophisticated shopping experience with a selection of upscale boutiques. Featuring stores such as The Little Market and Nili Lotan, the avenue offers a refined atmosphere in the picturesque setting of Santa Monica. Nearby, Third Street Promenade complements this with its vibrant shopping environment and trendy boutiques. Row DTLA Row DTLA, located in a revitalized warehouse district, is a hub for modern and creative shopping experiences. This area features a mix of stylish boutiques and unique shops, offering a fresh perspective on fashion and design. The creative ambiance of Row DTLA makes it a standout destination for those seeking both elegance and artistic flair. Arts District The Arts District in Downtown LA offers a blend of high-end and unique shopping experiences. This area is renowned for its creative atmosphere and eclectic range of boutiques, which showcase innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship. From stylish streetwear to exclusive designer finds, the Arts District adds a compelling edge to LA’s shopping scene. Trendsetting and Unique Shopping Experiences Photo by Oleksandr Gamaniuk on Unsplash Melrose Avenue and Abbot Kinney Boulevard Melrose Avenue and Abbot Kinney Boulevard represent the cutting edge of LA's fashion scene. Melrose Avenue is known for its eclectic blend of boutiques and trendy stores, reflecting its focus on contemporary fashion with an edgy vibe. In contrast, Abbot Kinney Boulevard offers a blend of upscale and artisanal shops, capturing the bohemian spirit of Venice. The Citadel Outlets The Citadel Outlets provide an exclusive outdoor shopping experience with significant discounts on luxury brands. Featuring a curated selection of high-end fashion at reduced prices, the outlet is ideal for those looking to enjoy premium fashion while staying within budget. The combination of designer deals and a refined shopping environment enhances its appeal. The Commons at Calabasas The Commons at Calabasas offers a sophisticated shopping environment with a few select brands and a movie theater. There are many restaurants in this area so shop a tiny bit, but eat a lot? Westfield Century City Westfield Century City stands out with its modern and stylish shopping environment. Featuring a range of high-end brands, including Fendi and Tiffany & Co., the center caters to diverse fashion tastes. Its extensive offerings ensure an enjoyable shopping experience.

There’s something cinematic about Midtown Manhattan. The lights, the pace, and the mix of tourists and locals rushing past each other create a vibrant atmosphere. It’s the New York that everyone recognizes from postcards and films. When my family lived here years ago, we’d walk to Bryant Park for coffee in the mornings. Even then, I’d think: no other neighborhood feels this alive at every hour of the day. Exploring the Heart of Midtown Manhattan Getting Around Midtown stretches roughly from 34th to 59th Street. It’s compact enough to explore on foot if you plan smartly. Start near Bryant Park or Times Square. Walk north toward Central Park, and you’ll pass more landmarks in a few hours than most cities have in total. Cabs are everywhere, but the subway is faster. Hop on the B, D, F, or M lines for easy Midtown stops. Must-Do Experiences in Midtown NYC Times Square The most happening part of town, hands-down. Be prepared for crowds and photo-taking tourists. Personally, I prefer visiting this area in the evening when the billboard lights shine bright! Bang in the middle of Times Square, you will find a few attractions that you should check out: Madame Tussaud's NYC where you can get up close to the wax figures of your favorite celebrities. 234 W 42nd St Watch a show: TKTS Booth is the best place to get discounted Broadway and Off-Broadway tickets. 7th Ave. Or * check this link for Off-Broadway shows. Participate in a TV show recording: The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, etc. If you are lucky, you can get tickets. Check a few months in advance. 513 W. 54th St., between 10th and 11th St . Get your tickets here. Looking to bike or Segway? Start your journey in Midtown. Take a Stroll Down Fifth Avenue and Adjacent Streets This entire area is bubbling with energy, filled with luxury stores and tourists from all over the world! It is New York's best 'window shopping' street, featuring the world's most expensive retail spaces. Check out the stores, including Saks Fifth and Bergdorf Goodman. Find the list of stores here. Visit the iconic and visually stunning St. Patrick's Cathedral and the Museum of Modern Art. If you are visiting during the winter months, check out the huge and beautifully decorated Christmas Tree at Rockefeller. You can go ice-skating at the rink right there, watch the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular, and admire the window dressings of all the fancy stores! Go Up the Empire State Building Intended to be the world's first 100+ story building, the Empire State Building is an architectural marvel. It holds the annual ESB Run-Up (ESBRU) , which puts runners from around the globe to the test as they race to the building’s 86th floor — more than 1,500 steps! This famous building was named the #1 attraction in the US by the 2022 TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice Award. Ticket reservations are required to visit this iconic building. Visit the Macy's on Herald Square Macy's Herald Square is the flagship of Macy's department store and the corporate headquarters of Macy's, Inc. It is one of the world's largest department stores. If you visit during spring, you must catch the Macy's Flower Show — 14 full days of flowers. It is phenomenal! Be Entertained at Madison Square Garden They call it the world's most famous arena. If you can, why not watch a game here? Or a concert? Or a boxing match, maybe? Find tickets and event schedule . We watched a musical concert here a few years ago, and it was electrifying! Visit the Grand Central Terminal The Grand Central Terminal is NYC's crown jewel. It is a historic and world-famous landmark. It is also a food and shopping destination with 60 shops and 35 places to eat. And of course, it is a railway station. "Meet Me At The Clock" is the best way to ensure you can find the folks you are there to meet! Walk to Bryant Park and Visit the New York Public Library This is a fun and busy public space with great summer activities for everyone. You can play a game of chess or ping pong, read a book, listen to music, engage in people-watching, or watch a performance or a movie at Bryant Park ! In the winter, the lawn transforms into NYC’s only free admission ice skating rink, surrounded by the Holiday Shops and The Lodge bar and food hall. The New York Public Library (NYPL) has 92 locations across the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island. The Stephen A. Schwarzman Building , commonly known as the Main Branch, 42nd Street Library, or the New York Public Library, is the flagship building in the New York Public Library system. It is free to visit. Visit the Samsung 837 Experience, Then Walk the 'High Line' and End at Hudson Yards There are many Samsung stores around the world, but Samsung 837 on 837 Washington Street is what one would call an interactive playground! A few minutes from the store, you should find a staircase to go up to the High Line. This public park is built on a historic freight rail line elevated above the streets on Manhattan’s West Side. Saved from demolition by neighborhood residents and the City of New York, the High Line opened in 2009 as a hybrid public space where visitors experience nature, art, and design. You can also get to the High Line from several other entrances. Click here to find the entrance closest to you. Finally, the cherry on the cake is Hudson Yards , New York’s newest neighborhood. It is home to more than 100 diverse shops and culinary experiences, corporate offices, public art, modern residences, 14 acres of public plazas, gardens, and groves, and the world’s first Equinox Hotel®. Many call this area 'The New West Side'. There are some great places to eat here. However, if you prefer to walk around the Meat Packing district and then eat at Chelsea Market , that's also not too far away. By the way, the newest observation deck called the 'Edge' is an amazing way to get a full 360 view of NYC. Located at 30 Hudson Yards, this sky deck is suspended in mid-air, giving you the feeling of floating in the sky. Photo Credit: Edge NYC website Experience the Wizarding World at Harry Potter New York Harry Potter New York is the first official Harry Potter flagship store, located in the heart of New York City next to the iconic Flatiron building. Get an awesome VR experience at 935 Broadway! Stop by the Butter Beer Bar and pick a wand. The Harry Potter store uses a virtual queue system to manage capacity. You need to add your name to the virtual waiting line. When we went this spring, we could just walk in to the store (despite what we had read on the website), but we needed advance reservations for the VR experiences — which were really fun! A Small Wellness Moment Midtown might be built for motion, but it’s learning stillness, too. You’ll find it in unexpected corners. A morning yoga class at Bryant Park, a visit to Equinox Hotel’s Sleep Lab at Hudson Yards, or even a quiet pause inside MoMA’s sculpture garden can provide a refreshing break. In a neighborhood famous for its speed, recovery has quietly entered the skyline. My Travel Tip Plan one big attraction and one slower moment each day. Start your morning with a museum or observatory, then pause for lunch outdoors. Maybe enjoy a meal at UrbanSpace Vanderbilt near Grand Central or have a quick picnic at Bryant Park. Midtown rewards both energy and curiosity.

Landing into LAX and need a hotel to stay? This article will help. Photo by Wilson Ye on Unsplash When it comes to finding a hotel near LAX, the key is striking a balance between convenience and quality. If you're just passing through for a quick overnight stay, the hotels about a mile from the airport are actually your best bet. However, it's essential to choose wisely because not all areas around LAX are created equal. If you're looking for a safe and pleasant experience, El Segundo emerges as a top choice. Its proximity to both the beach front and excellent dining options make it a standout among the rest. Scroll down for hotel suggestions near the airport, near El Segundo and in Manhattan Beach. Near LAX Airport – Within a Mile The airport is located in the Westchester neighborhood of LA. These hotels below are in this neighborhood. Hyatt Regency LAX Super close to the airport with a complimentary shuttle. They have suites and rooms, a gym and an outdoor pool. Unity LA is a restaurant on site. People stay here to go to SoFi stadium event as well. Homewood Suites by Hilton LAX Just five minutes from the airport. They offer hot breakfast and an evening social on Wednesdays. They have an outdoor pool, a gym as well as airport shuttle. Pets are allowed. They also have suites and a grocery service. They offer different rates as well as as some discounts. Sheraton Gateway LA Hotel Less than a mile from LAX, this Marriott chain hotel has a 24-hour shuttle to and from the terminals. They have rooms and suites. They have some dining options at the location. The Costero California Bistro is open in the evenings. They have an outdoor pool and a gym as well. People stay here to go to SoFi stadium events. Sonesta LAX This hotel offers a 24/7 shuttle service to LAX, every 20-30 minutes. It was on the Traveler's Choice TripAdvisor list in 2023. It has a business center, a heated pool and a gym. It has a destination fee of $25. The hotel offers dining options - Yokoso sushi bar, a market cafe, a taproom and The Landing restaurant for breakfast. Hyatt House LAX / Century Blvd This hotel is .2 miles from the airport, a shuttle service and complimentary breakfast are offered. They have rooms and suites and an outdoor pool. Their Lobby Kitchen and Bar is called The Beacon. They also have a fitness center on the premises and free laundry. ########## In El Segundo – 1-2 Miles Away The closest beach is in El Porto, in Manhattan Beach. Look up Main Street in El Segundo for restaurants. This is a nice area for a short stay. Hampton Inn & Suites LAX El Segundo This Hilton hotel is just off 1-105. They offer free breakfast and have an indoor pool. They also have a 'Flight Deck' Lounge with small plates and cocktails. Photo: Hampton Inn LAX site AC Hotel by Marriott LA South Bay Beautiful European style hotel, with FLORA rooftop Restaurant and Bar. The AC Lounge downstairs is also nice. Airport shuttle is available at a cost. This is a good spot to stay for SoFi stadium events. There is an outdoor pool as well as a fitness center on the premises. This is a slightly pricier option! Photo: AC Hotel by Marriott LA South Bay website Hyatt Place LAX / El Segundo Complimentary airport shuttle, amenities like free breakfast, fitness center and an outdoor pool. Suites include small kitchenette. The hotel is pretty close to the Toyota Ice Rink. Photo: Hyatt Place LAX website Residence Inn by Marriott Los Angeles LAX / El Segundo This is a business hotel with studios, one and two bedroom suites with kitchens. Free breakfast, outdoor pool and fitness center. Photo: Residence Inn Marriott LAX website Aloft El Segundo - LA Airport This is a tech forward recently renovated hotel that offers a free airport shuttle service. They have a bar called WXYZ for craft drinks. They also have an outdoor pool and a 24 hour fitness center. Photo: Aloft El Segundo website HYATT House LAX / Manhattan Beach Escape the hustle and bustle at HYATT House LAX, located just a short drive from picturesque Manhattan Beach. Enjoy spacious suites, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to coastal attractions. Photo: Hyatt House website ###### Near Manhattan Beach – 3 Miles Away Only recommended for slightly longer stays, not overnight airport stays. Manhattan Beach Pier Manhattan Beach is part of 'South Bay' LA which comprises of many little neighborhoods, including the beach cities. For a deeper dive into Manhattan Beach and to really experience beach living, consider these hotels .

In Los Angeles, wellness takes many forms - and sometimes, it looks like dance and music! In the heart of Santa Monica lies The Victorian , a beautiful venue that promises an unforgettable experience. Recently, I had the pleasure of exploring this unique space and its perfect atmosphere for dancing, dining, and enjoying a variety of drinks. Photo credit: The Victorian Upon arrival, the convenience of private parking immediately set a positive tone for the evening. As I ventured further into the venue, I couldn't help but notice the mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, offering attendees the choice to enjoy the pleasant evening breeze or revel in the cozy indoors. The occasion was marked by the launch of their new seasonal food and cocktail menu. We were welcomed into the VIP room which was a special little room, often rented out for small events. Photo credit: The Victorian It was here that we tried a variety of cocktails and bites. We also met a friendly bartender who was testing out really cool cocktails for the holidays! Thursday nights at The Victorian are dedicated to salsa lessons, allowing guests to learn the art of Bachata and Salsa from talented instructors. Lucky us - It was a fantastic opportunity to embrace the rhythm and enjoy the vibrant music that echoed through the venue! The charm of The Victorian however, extends beyond Thursday nights. Each day of the week offers something special for its guests. Wine enthusiasts can indulge on Wednesdays with an extensive wine list offering a variety of flavors to explore. Fridays come alive with music as lively DJ sets echo through all three floors. Saturdays are perfect for leisurely brunches outdoors, followed by a night of dancing to diverse tunes in every corner of the property. For me, The Victorian is more than just a venue; it's an experience. Whether you are a tourist or local, dance enthusiast, a food connoisseur, or someone simply seeking a good time, The Victorian effortlessly delivers a vibrant and diverse ambiance. Pro Tip 1: Incidents of pickpocketing are often common in crowded places, especially where people are engrossed in fun and not paying attention to their belongings. Make sure to keep your purse / wallet close at all times, a precautionary measure that everyone should consider when attending dance events in bustling venues! Pro Tip 2: Parking costs $15. Look for street parking first before pulling into the property. This was a gifted experience.

Welcome to Portland, Oregon—a city renowned for its vibrant arts scene, eclectic food culture, and stunning natural beauty. If you're short on time but want to make the most of your visit, here are my top recommendations for an unforgettable two-day adventure in Portland. Photo of Portland, OR. Credit: Elena Kuchko on Unsplash Powell’s City of Books Kick off your Portland experience at Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest independent bookstore. Spanning an entire city block, this literary haven houses over a million books, both new and used. Wander through its color-coded rooms, get lost among the towering shelves, and discover hidden literary treasures. Whether you’re a casual reader or a bibliophile, Powell’s is a must-visit, offering a full day’s worth of exploration. Multnomah Falls Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Portland, Multnomah Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder. This iconic waterfall is best viewed during winter and spring when the water flow is at its peak. Enjoy the majestic sight from the base, which is easily accessible and has amenities like a restaurant, restrooms, an ice cream shop, and a gift shop. With parking conveniently located across the road, this free picturesque spot is perfect for a quick and beautiful getaway. Multnomah Falls. Photo credit: Peter Thomas on Unsplash Portland Japanese Garden Immerse yourself in tranquility at the Portland Japanese Garden, considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan. Open Wednesday through Monday, this serene retreat features a variety of landscapes including a koi pond, tea garden, and bonsai terrace. For a complete experience, visit the Umami Café for a delightful meal and check out the gift shop, which offers unique cultural items. A visit typically takes about an hour, making it a perfect afternoon activity. Lan Su Chinese Garden Nestled in the heart of the city, the Lan Su Chinese Garden is a peaceful oasis crafted by artisans from Suzhou, China. This authentic garden showcases a rich collection of Chinese plants and offers a tranquil tea experience in its café. Don’t miss the in-house museum, where you might catch a live calligraphy demonstration. At just $14 for entry, this wheelchair-accessible garden is a delightful and educational stop. Here is our Puer Tea experience! Portland Saturday Market Experience the local culture at the Portland Saturday Market, the largest continuously operating outdoor arts and crafts market in the U.S. From March through December, the Old Town/Chinatown neighborhood transforms every Saturday into a bustling market with over 150 booths. Here, local artisans showcase their handcrafted goods, providing a unique shopping experience that captures the creative spirit of Portland. Ken & June’s Hazelnuts Melcher Family Farm Oregon’s Willamette Valley produces a significant portion of the nation’s hazelnuts. Take a short trip to Ken & June’s Hazelnuts Melcher Family Farm, about 30 minutes from Portland, to learn about hazelnut farming. This family-run farm, operational since 1957, offers a fascinating insight into agricultural practices. Don’t forget to try their delicious hazelnut shakes and explore their peach farm nearby. Savor Portland’s Culinary Delights Portland’s food scene is diverse and vibrant, with food trucks being a quintessential part of the experience. Tamales & Food Trucks Try the vegetarian tamales at Casa de Tamales, a delightful spot known for its homemade feel. For a broader taste, visit Cartopia, a popular food truck pod offering a variety of cuisines. Wine Tasting Celebrate Oregon’s renowned Pinot Noir with a wine tasting tour. Visit Adelsheim in the Willamette Valley for a guided tasting experience of their exquisite wines. If you venture much further south, don’t miss Dancin Winery in Medford. Back in Portland, consider the Red Lily Vineyards Red Blanket Tempranillo 2016 from Jacksonville, Rogue Valley which is wonderful with its bold, dark fruit flavors and the award-winning and organically grown Willamette Valley Heritage Reserve Pinot from Coeur de Terre (CDT) Want to know more about Oregon wines? Click here. Craft Breweries Portland’s craft beer scene is a must-explore. Breakside Brewery offers a great selection of beers, a vibrant atmosphere, and delicious food. Sample the Black Butter Porter from Deschutes Brewery or beers from Pelican Brewing Company for a taste of Oregon’s finest brews. Local Coffee For coffee aficionados, Portland is a paradise. Start with Coava Coffee’s flagship store for an exceptional pour-over, then head to Stumptown Coffee Roasters, a local favorite. Dutch Bros, known for its simple coffee offerings is best for pick-up! Voodoo Doughnut No trip to Portland is complete without a stop at Voodoo Doughnut. Famous for its quirky atmosphere and delicious doughnuts, this spot often has long lines, so plan to arrive early to avoid the wait. Credits: While I am busy taking videos, my family helps in so many ways! Thank you, PJ for the photos, Mauli for planning all the food excursions, PK for driving and Anya for forever keeping us young!

Planning a trip to Disney World in Orlando, Florida? After our recent adventure, I’m excited to share some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your visit. Here’s a detailed guide based on our experience to ensure you have a magical time! 1. Streamline Your Ticket and Park Reservations Ticket Purchase: Buy your Disney World tickets online to avoid long lines. Pick them up at the ‘Will Call’ entrance for added convenience. Tickets purchased in advance are often cheaper. Booking Process: Create an account with the same email used for all bookings. This will streamline your experience. Each park requires separate reservations. Since capacity is limited, book your park days well in advance. For assistance, Disney’s customer service is efficient and offers a call-back feature to avoid long wait times. Genie+ Pass: Invest in the Genie+ pass to skip long lines at popular attractions. The Lightning Lane feature allows you to book rides every two hours, so plan ahead and reserve spots early, even if it means scheduling rides for later in the day. Utilize resources like Thrill Data to find out which rides are the most popular and how to schedule them effectively. 2. Master the Disney Experience App App Essentials: Download the Disney Experience app before your visit and sign in with the same email as your ticket purchase. This app is vital for planning your day, booking dining reservations, ordering food, and managing Genie+ selections. The app provides real-time updates, so make sure it’s installed on a reliable phone. Phone and Connectivity: Bring a battery pack to keep your phone charged throughout the day. Disney’s Wi-Fi can help with connectivity issues, but it’s best to be prepared. 3. Navigate the Top Magic Kingdom Attractions Must-Experience Rides: Space Mountain: A thrilling, dark ride with sharp turns and sudden drops. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: A fun, fast-paced ride with exciting drops. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: A delightful ride with a smooth experience and charming scenes. Splash Mountain: Enjoyable with minimal splash if you’re not in the back row. Pirates of the Caribbean: A classic, well-executed boat ride through a pirate-themed adventure. It’s a Small World: A heartwarming and nostalgic boat ride featuring dolls from around the world. Consider Skipping: Attractions like Peter Pan’s Flight, Winnie the Pooh, Tiki Bird Show, and Speedway may not justify long wait times, especially if you’re short on time. 4. Enjoy the Best Shows and Parades Top Entertainment: ‘Disney Enchantment’ Show: Don’t miss this immersive experience with stunning projection effects extending from Cinderella’s Castle to Main Street, USA. The 50th anniversary celebration added an extra touch of magic, but the show is spectacular year-round. Fireworks and Parades:  The night parade is a highlight, but daytime parades and character performances are also fantastic. Be flexible if the night parade is canceled and enjoy other live entertainment. 5. Dining: What to Know Vegetarian and Healthy Options: Disney World’s food options for vegetarians can be limited and underwhelming. Consider bringing your own snacks, such as hummus sandwiches and theplas (Indian flatbreads). Dining Reservations: Make reservations for sit-down restaurants through the Disney app well in advance. Be prepared for potentially mediocre and overpriced meals. Don’t miss out on the Mickey Mouse-shaped ice cream and pancakes—they’re adorable and a must-try! 6. Additional Tips for a Smooth Visit Hydration and Essentials: Carry a refillable water bottle. There are only a few water fountains, mostly near restrooms. Be prepared to buy water if needed. Pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Bring extra layers for cooler months and include items like extra socks, deodorant, masks, and mints in your bag. Souvenirs and Merchandise: Disney merchandise can be expensive inside the parks. Shop at outlets or hotel gift shops for better deals. Disney items at the airport or on Amazon are often cheaper than in the park. Accommodation and Transportation: Opt for a hotel with free shuttles to Disney World and Disney Springs. We enjoyed staying at the Orlando World Center Marriott for its amenities, including a fantastic pool, shuttle service, and proximity to dining options. Avoid renting a car if you can. Hotel shuttles are more convenient and cost-effective compared to daily parking fees and rental car expenses. For rideshare, be cautious of surge pricing and longer wait times. Navigating Tolls: If you must rent a car, be aware of Florida’s tolls. Consider purchasing a SunPass or Mini-SunPass, but be cautious of additional rental fees. It’s often more economical to rely on hotel shuttles or rideshare services.

When it comes to Disney parks, Animal Kingdom offers a unique allure. Spanning 580 acres—five times the size of Magic Kingdom—Animal Kingdom is a verdant paradise where lush landscapes, captivating wildlife, and thrilling adventures come together. Here’s a guide to making the most of your visit, with some insider tips to enhance your experience. Arrival and Overview Our journey to Animal Kingdom was marked by the usual Orlando traffic, but the park’s natural beauty made it all worthwhile. We spent around eight hours exploring its diverse areas, enjoying the shaded pathways that kept us cool. To avoid long lines, we opted out of the popular Avatar ride in Pandora, but there was plenty else to keep us entertained. Exploring the Lands Animal Kingdom is divided into six distinct areas, each offering unique experiences. Here’s what to focus on: 1. Discovery Island Discovery Island is home to the iconic Tree of Life. This striking structure, adorned with intricate carvings, serves as the park’s centerpiece. Don’t miss the occasional sound and light show that brings the Tree to life. Take your time to wander the surrounding trails to fully appreciate the artistry. 2. Oasis Oasis, the first area you encounter, is a lush, green introduction to the park. Its winding pathways and tropical flora create a tranquil start to your visit. It’s a great place for a peaceful stroll and to spot some of the park’s early animal residents. 3. Asia Asia is a highlight of Animal Kingdom with two standout attractions: Expedition Everest : This thrilling ride is a must-experience. Disney has recreated a Nepalese village at the base of the Himalayas, complete with the legend of the Yeti. The queue itself is a journey through captivating Indian scenery and folklore, leading to an exhilarating ride. Kali River Rapids : For a splashy adventure, Kali River Rapids is essential. You’ll ride on a round raft through turbulent waters, encountering exciting drops and plenty of splashes. Be sure to ride towards the end of your visit and use the free lockers provided to store your belongings and stay dry. Ponchos are available, but expect to get soaked—our family enjoyed going on it twice! 4. Africa In Africa, the experiences are both educational and entertaining: Kilimanjaro Safari : This safari ride offers a glimpse into expansive habitats where animals roam freely, far exceeding a traditional zoo experience. Disney’s commitment to animal welfare is evident, making this a standout attraction. The Lion King Show : This indoor production rivals Broadway with its vibrant performances and intricate staging. The stadium seating ensures excellent views of this high-energy, musical extravaganza. 5. Pandora – The World of Avatar Pandora is particularly enchanting at night with its glowing, bioluminescent plants creating a surreal atmosphere. Although we didn’t ride the Avatar attraction, the evening ambiance alone is worth the visit. It’s a visually stunning experience that’s not to be missed. 6. DinoLand U.S.A. DinoLand U.S.A. caters to dinosaur enthusiasts with engaging exhibits and activities. Designed like a dig site, it features interactive attractions and a dinosaur-themed playground. The area is perfect for kids and offers plenty of opportunities for fun and learning. Additional Experiences Kite Show : A new addition to the park is the kite show, which offers a vibrant display of colorful kites soaring through the sky. While the show may not be a highlight for everyone, it adds a whimsical touch to your visit and is a pleasant break from the major attractions. Dining and More In Asia, we dined at the Yak and Yeti restaurant. While the food was pricey and didn’t meet our expectations, the setting was enjoyable. In Africa, the park’s portrayal of Swahili culture and architecture adds a rich layer to your visit. You might also encounter live performances, such as a sitar player, enhancing the immersive experience. Additional Tips Ponchos and Gear : For water rides like Kali River Rapids, bring ponchos or buy them in the park. It’s worth storing your valuables in the provided lockers to stay dry.

Whether you’re taking your first family trip to Disney or taking a well-deserved solo vacation, bring a bag that will hold all of your belongings. Disney-branded designer bags are a great way to show off your love for the franchise while complementing your personal style. Find out what are the best types of bags you can bring to Disney World that are both functional and stylish. Stylish Crossbody Bags for Convenience No one wants to lug a huge bag around the parks. Luckily, crossbody bags are lightweight, water-resistant, and hands-free. Store your phone, wallet, sunscreen, and any Disney accessories in a comfortable bag you can sling over your shoulder. We recommend this particular look for venturing around the Animal Kingdom.  Chic Backpacks for a Day of Adventure For an all-day adventure, you’ll want to have all your essential snacks and SPFs ready at your disposal. That’s why backpacks are the optimal accessory for any Disney vacation.  If you’re bringing the whole family to Disney, a backpack holds all the essentials for your little ones. Bring extra sets of diapers, toys, and water bottles to avoid those emotional outbursts or spending money at food stalls. Disney also has a line of backpacks for those who want a mini, fashionable bag for the trip. Prepare your Disney-bound outfit with a Loungefly or Kate Spade backpack to complete the look. Premium Tote Bags for Versatility For a large yet lightweight bag, tote bags are the perfect option for the souvenir shopper. These spacious bags are durable and hold anything from extra clothes to snacks. If you have a short trip to Disney or want to bring as few bags as possible, tote bags could be the right bags for a day at Disney . Designer Fanny Packs for Effortless Glam Hold your belongings close to you on the rides with a designer fanny pack. Many brands like Gucci or Prada cater these bags for those who need quick and easy access to their belongings. Imagine wearing these designer bags while strolling through the different cultures in  Epcot’s wonderland ! Slip through the security gate with your day pass or buy your souvenirs with your wallet in a reachable spot. Not only are these designer fanny packs convenient and functional, but these accessories are also the perfect detail to showcase in all your Instagram posts and memories. No matter which park you visit, these packs will help make your vacation photos with friends and family an unforgettable moment.  Eco-Friendly Sling Bags for Minimalism For the environmentally conscious traveler, look for the best bag for your Disney World trip made from sustainable materials. Eco-friendly sling bags use recycled fabrics or vegan leather that can hold your family’s items comfortably. Brands like Stella McCartney and Everlane provide excellent options that can accommodate your essentials, like reusable water bottles, maps, and portable chargers. Speaking of packing your essentials, remembering what to pack for vacation to Disney can be overwhelming. Check out the list below for some ideas on what essentials to ensure you’ve included in your bag-of-choice.  Essentials To Include in Your Disney Bag Refillable water bottle Snacks like granola bars Mini Travel fans Travel-size sunscreen  Hand sanitizer, wipes First aid essentials - bandages, pain relievers, aloe Diapers and baby supplies (if applicable) Sunglasses and hats Portable phone chargers (battery packs) Rain gear - Ponchos or mini umbrellas ( umbrella hats !) Don’t overstuff your pockets or haul an oversized bag! Pack your luggage and wear a day bag that you can bring for your Disney Trip. Choose one of these designer brands to match your Disney-bound outfit and hold your belongings securely as you enjoy the sites at the Disney parks.

If you’re planning a trip to EPCOT in Orlando, FL, get ready for a journey that’s as expansive as it is exhilarating. As one of Disney World’s largest parks, EPCOT is twice the size of Magic Kingdom, and there’s no shortage of exploration ahead. But before you lace up your walking shoes, here’s what you need to know to make the most of your adventure. EPCOT’s vast layout demands stamina, so comfort is key. The holiday season adds an extra layer of enchantment with twinkling lights, festive music, and a spectacularly adorned globe that enthralls visitors. But beyond the magic, here are some practical tips to enhance your experience: The Essentials Grab a Map: Knowing where you’re going will save time and energy. Plan Ahead: Use the Genie+ pass to schedule your must-see attractions the night before. Pack Smart: Bring an extra pair of socks, charge your phone, and carry portable chargers. Book Dining: Make reservations for sit-down restaurants to avoid long waits. Prepare for the Weather: Pack sunscreen, carry water, and bring a layer if visiting during cooler months. Top Attractions Maximize your EPCOT visit with these top experiences, best enjoyed with a Genie+ pass or some patience: Soarin’ Around the World – This exhilarating journey offers a breathtaking global tour from the comfort of your seat. Test Track – Design and test your own car on a high-speed track for a thrilling ride. Ratatouille – Dive into a clever 3D adventure that’s a bit spinny and packed with charm. Frozen Ever After – Experience a delightful ride with a splash of excitement and a roller coaster that goes forward and backward. Gran Fiesta Tour – Enjoy a festive boat ride through a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture. World Showcase: A Global Adventure EPCOT’s World Showcase is where the park truly shines. Take a leisurely stroll through 11 different countries, each offering unique cultural experiences: Mexico: Enter a colorful Mexican market and enjoy a boat ride. Dining options reflect the country’s vibrant spirit. China: Visit a tea stall, explore a shop with traditional artifacts, and learn about Disney World’s connection to China. Norway: Savor Kringla, School Bread, and Lefse, experience the Frozen ride, and meet Elsa and Anna in a Norwegian-themed area. Germany: Relish beer gardens and pretzels, and enjoy classic German fare like schnitzel and currywurst (vegetarian options may be limited). Japan: Japan stands out with its unique cultural offerings. Visit the Mitsukoshi Department Store for a range of traditional and modern Japanese goods, and delight in the playful exhibits at the Kawaii Museum, celebrating Japan’s love for cuteness. In addition, experience the festival markets featuring African drum performances, adding a lively rhythm to your visit. Savor diverse options like Italian pizza and American BBQ available in other pavilions. For those with dietary restrictions, Morocco offers a delightful food experience with three dips and warm pita bread. For additional fuel, consider packing some snacks like peanut butter sandwiches and cereal bars.

UPDATE: Bubble World is now closed. +++++++++++++++++++++ Immersive experiences are certainly revolutionizing entertainment. From theatrical experiences like Sleep No More , immersive art like Beyond Van Gogh , or an AYA park trip full of stars, interactive Instagrammable displays evoke wonder everywhere! This week, I was invited to an early VIP showing of Bubble World: An Immersive Experience in Los Angeles, about 15 minutes away from DTLA. I decided to take my daughter with me so we could write about our experience from two perspectives - adult and teen. The Ball Pit at Bubble World. Photo credit: Fever And we had such a blast! Read along for details. Bubble World premiered in Milan, Italy earlier this year and is now open in Los Angeles at the Exhibition Hub Art Center at 1345 N Montebello Blvd in the city of Montebello, Greater Los Angeles. You can arrive via Pomona Freeway by car or bus lines 287 and 106. There is a ton of parking available outside the facility. Bubble World is very family-friendly and perfect for children of all ages. I personally feel that middle and high school children will really enjoy this indoor experience! The exhibition should take you 60 minutes to complete, and perhaps slightly more if you want to take a ton of photos! Tickets are available for purchase now at bubbleworldexperience.com , starting at $31.90 for adults and $23.90 for children. VIP tickets, group bundles and family passes are also available. BubbleWorld is closed on Tuesdays. Hot Air Balloon flight stimulator at Bubble World. Photo credit: Fever The exhibition has 13 rooms, each offering multi-sensory, unforgettable optical illusions that enchant both kids and adults + countless photo opportunities! One of my favorite rooms was the 'Bubble Ocean' - a room full of balloons! It was fun to have balloon fights with my kiddo and bounce balls around. With each step of this fantastical adventure, I felt an undeniable connection with my inner child. The symphony of pastel colors and mesmerizing lasers was just magical and I embraced the delight of the moment. As part of the VIP package, we got the VR experience, a pretty cool immersion where we became one with a floating bubble, gliding and soaring in the sky. What fun! My teen had this to say about her experience: "The bubble world experience was really fun. I have never jumped into a ball pit the size of a swimming pool, or a room full of balloons. The free cotton candy was also a nice touch. I love the idea and the bold colors and unique rooms. I loved all thirteen of them but I would have to say my favorites were the ball pit, balloon room, and VR room. The room where you could pull a bubble around you was also really cool. 10/10, definitely recommend." What an exciting journey through giant bubbles, selfie room poses, whimsical bubble baths and robotic bubble shows, and then concluding the evening with a yum bubble-shaped cotton candy treat. All in all, a great time. This exhibit is now closed. Get notified if tickets become available. This was a gifted experience.

In recent years, a quiet yet profound transformation has been sweeping the fashion industry. As more of us awaken to the realities of environmental sustainability and animal welfare, the call for ethical alternatives grows louder. Among these, plant-based clothing is emerging as a trailblazing solution. Today, I invite you to explore the fascinating world of pineapple-based fashion—a development that’s set to redefine how we think about our wardrobes. Imagine this: one day soon, you’ll walk into work wrapped in the comfort of pineapple fibers. Later, you’ll attend a dinner party, a charity gala, or even a night out, all while adorned in the vibrant hues of pineapple-derived textiles. We’ll be celebrating the unique joy that this plant-based fashion brings, showcasing our pineapple shoes, flashing our pineapple bags, and donning capes that are as bright and brilliant as the fruit itself. Photo by Luke Jeremiah on Unsplash And yes, even I, a self-proclaimed minimalist with a closet full of white shirts and black jeans, find myself captivated by this trend. Fashion has never been a priority for me—sustainability, however, is another story. The fashion industry, notorious for its substantial carbon footprint, is undergoing a much-needed shift. Among the most exciting developments is the creation of clothing from plants, including pineapples and cacti. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to the world of pineapple fashion. Photo credit: Ananas Anam Yes, you read that right—clothes made from pineapples. Ananas Anam , a forward-thinking company, has developed an innovative natural textile called Piñatex®, crafted from waste pineapple leaf fiber. These leaves are a byproduct of existing agriculture, meaning no additional land, water, or chemicals are required for their cultivation. Moreover, this practice provides an extra income stream for farming communities, ensuring that sustainability benefits both the environment and local economies. The process behind Piñatex® begins in the Philippines, where the leaves are collected and processed to extract the fibers. These fibers are then transformed into a non-woven substrate, which is sent to Spain for finishing. The final product, a versatile textile, is distributed worldwide from Ananas Anam’s headquarters in London. Photo credit: Ananas Anam I recently had the opportunity to connect with Ananas Anam, and they were eager to share their journey with me. Piñatex® was born from years of research and development, spearheaded by Dr. Carmen Hijosa, who sought a sustainable alternative to the environmental impact of leather production. What started as a solution to agricultural waste has blossomed into a movement that’s changing the face of fashion. Photo credit: Ananas Anam Several designers are now incorporating Piñatex® into their collections. One such brand is Andrea Kader’s Morpho , a line that marries modern sustainability with innovative fabric manipulations. The result? Stunning garments that shine with uniqueness and style. Similarly, Mistohn (Elasme) is another brand making waves with its Piñatex® creations. Known for their commitment to cruelty-free fashion, they’ve become pioneers in using innovative fabrics, and their drape capes are turning heads. HfS Collective , an ethical and sustainable brand based in Los Angeles, also deserves a mention. Their hands-free belt bags, crafted from Piñatex®, are made in a small, family-run factory near the city. Each purchase supports women and planet-focused organizations, adding yet another layer of goodness to their already impressive ethos. Loyal Footwear , a women-run brand in Hoboken, NJ, is another standout in the world of sustainable fashion. Their shoes, made in small batches using Piñatex®, are not only chic but also a testament to what’s possible when creativity meets consciousness Piñatex® is just the beginning. As the demand for environmentally-friendly materials grows, we can expect to see more innovations in fashion—perhaps even cushions, lamps, and furniture made from pineapple leaves. And as these options become more accessible, sustainable fashion will no longer be a luxury but a mainstream choice. As we move forward, let’s celebrate the brands that are leading the way, making it possible for us to wear our values with pride. From H&M in Sweden to small designer brands around the world, the future of fashion is being shaped by those who dare to innovate. I, for one, can’t wait to see where this journey takes us. For those interested Brands such as H&M (Sweden), Matea Benedetti (Slovenia), Hugo Boss (Germany), Bego Vegan (Canada), Manavai (Chile), Momoc (Spain), Nae Vegan (Portugal), Nature (Denmark), One Step (USA), Po Zu (UK), Rombaut (France), Edun (USA), Ahimsa Collective (Australia), Artesano (USA), Camille (France), Distyled (Lithuania), Hozen (USA), Humour Noir (Germany), Insecta (Peru), and Dokmai (Rwanda) are already incorporating Piñatex® into their fashion lines. Most are small designer brands, but with any luck, we’ll see larger companies like H&M bringing plant-based fashion into the mainstream.

In a world seeking holistic well-being, 2024 emerges as a pivotal year, marked by transformative trends reshaping the landscape of wellness. From metabolism tracking devices flooding the market to the resurgence of weight-loss initiatives, this year heralds groundbreaking innovations that redefine our approach to health. Join the journey into the compelling trends and revolutionary tools defining this evolving sphere of wellness. Precision Wellness: Navigating Your Body's Blueprint Body composition encompasses the proportion of fat, bone, and muscle within your body, distinct from the body mass index (BMI) which doesn't account for body fat. Numerous methods exist for measuring body composition, ranging from body pods to underwater weighing techniques. At the forefront of cutting-edge body analysis technology stands the Dexa body scan, offering detailed assessments of bone density, muscle mass, and fat distribution. Renowned destinations like The Mayo Clinic or smaller shops like BodySpec in Los Angeles provide Dexa scans, empowering individuals to curate tailored fitness and nutrition plans with precision. This non-invasive procedure is reasonably priced, taking approximately 15 minutes, and involves zero discomfort. Metabolic Mastery: Your Path to Personalized Vitality Optimizing your metabolism can significantly impact how effectively your body burns fats and carbs, ultimately aiding weight loss and overall well-being. Lumen's breath analysis technology offers real-time insights into metabolic health, guiding meal timing for improved efficiency. While the device itself costs $299, with an additional $19 monthly subscription fee for access to the Lumen app, investing in understanding your body's metabolism can prove valuable if you're committed to tracking it. Real-time glucose tracking is another emerging trend, involving a small sensor attached to the skin to monitor glucose spikes via a smartphone. Even for non-diabetic individuals, this monitoring can assist in weight management and diabetes prevention. However, it's a costly trend, with quality monitors priced around $100 and requiring replacement every ten days. Some popular monitors in the market include Freestyle Libre, Dexcom G-7, and Nutrisense. Cold Therapy Revolution: Use of Cold for Healing The use of extreme cold for therapeutic purposes has surged in popularity. From basic methods like ice baths to sophisticated cryo chambers, these therapies aim to rejuvenate and aid in post-exercise recovery. Cold therapy, categorized as an alternative treatment, currently lacks insurance coverage or regulatory oversight. It encompasses whole-body cryotherapy, subjecting the entire body (except the head) to freezing temperatures, and localized cryotherapy, targeting specific body areas. Some medi-spas have introduced cryo facials, employing vaporized nitrogen to cool the skin on the face, scalp, and neck. Moreover, cryotherapy services are now available even in hotels. Notably, Accor's Fairmont Windsor Park proudly features a multi-person cryotherapy chamber! Flex & Flow: Enhancing Mobility and Flexibility Flexibility remains a cornerstone of exercise, especially in preserving mobility as we age. The rise of specialized stretching centers signals a surge in demand for guided stretching services. These venues cater to the recognized benefits of flexibility and mobility training. Under the guidance of certified professionals, these sessions strive to enhance physical capabilities, fostering agility and adaptability. Entities like Stretch Lab, Stretc*d, and Stretch Zone curate customized stretching regimens that amplify flexibility, improve mobility, and reduce the risk of injuries. A notable evolution in the fitness sphere, particularly among middle-aged individuals, demonstrates a pronounced preference for strength training. Centered on low-impact exercises and resistance training, this movement aims to safeguard muscle mass, augment bone density, and prioritize recovery. Mindful movement practices, breathwork, and meditation are seamlessly weaving into fitness routines, constituting integral elements. Advancements in Wearable Health Tech Health-oriented wearable devices and smartwatches are poised to experience a more profound fusion into daily routines. These gadgets are transcending their conventional role as mere monitors and are transforming into proactive health assessment tools. Smartwatches are embracing advancements in health and fitness tracking, encompassing heart rate monitors and sleep trackers. Some clothing now have features that regulate body temperature via embedded sensors. Wearable devices specifically designed for sports activities are becoming adept at tracking an array of metrics including speed, distance covered, and movement patterns. The evolution of these devices extends beyond fitness metrics; they are becoming instrumental in the early detection of medical conditions. Moreover, these gadgets offer the convenience of remote monitoring, bridging the gap between healthcare and everyday life. Brands like FitBit, Apple, Nike, Medtronic, Garmin, Vital Connect, among others, are pioneering this innovative integration. Longevity as an Enduring Priority Health trends such as sleep and gut health continue to underscore the pursuit of longevity, a prevailing priority in 2024. Photo credit: Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels Innovations in sleep health continue to thrive, ranging from smart mattresses, sleep earbuds, and anti-snore pillows to innovative solutions like smart rings and sleep pods. Complementary therapies like floating in saltwater bathtubs and infrared sauna sessions have gained popularity for promoting better sleep and aiding muscle recovery. The emphasis on gut health remains a dominant trend, witnessing substantial growth in the prebiotic and probiotic markets. Many products now differentiate themselves based on digestive wellness while incorporating mood and mind benefits. Yakult Honshu, a Japanese brand, and Probi Sensia from Sweden exemplify this trend by offering probiotic drinks addressing mood, sleep, and stress. Innovations like Zbiotics, engineered for pre-alcohol consumption to prevent hangovers, reflect the growing interest in this space. Even pet gut health is gaining traction, with companies like Animal Biome making significant headway. Consumers are increasingly drawn to wellness approaches backed by clinical studies and research. Brands like Headspace and Calm are gaining favor for their evidence-based mindfulness solutions. The mainstream acceptance of functional, adaptogenic mushroom drinks, exemplified by Arepa from New Zealand, signals a shift in dietary preferences toward functional ingredients. Similarly, Japanese brand Esaki Glico's functional chocolate, targeting mental balance, aligns with this trend. Companies like General Mills are introducing products with ingredients that minimally impact blood sugar levels, aligning with the shift toward better blood sugar management over traditional weight management approaches. Products with reduced carbs and higher fat content are gaining traction, emphasizing protein and blood sugar management rather than weight control. Collagen's surge in popularity for skincare, hair, and nails underscores its recognition for gut health benefits, notably seen in bovine collagen products. Self-Care and Mind Body Integration An evident trend toward self-care has emerged, manifesting in diverse forms such as meditation apps, skincare regimens, intermittent fasting practices, and an amplified focus on mental well-being. Notably, red light therapy has gained traction as a therapeutic technique employing low-level red light wavelengths, offering benefits for various skin conditions like wrinkles and psoriasis. Anticipations extend to alterations in social media preferences, with a predicted shift toward following fitness influencers possessing official credentials and showcasing a diverse range of body types. In seeking reliable sources for mental health support, individuals are projected to pivot toward platforms like BetterHelp and Talkspace, preferring expert guidance over unverified content prevalent on social platforms. Weight-Loss Resurgence Fueled by Ozempic Health experts foresee a resurgence in weight loss-centric trends throughout 2024, attributed to medications like Novo Nordisk's Wegovy and the diabetes treatment Ozempic, which shares the same active ingredient. These drugs emulate a hormone's action, slowing digestion and enhancing feelings of fullness. The emergence of these trends poses significant dilemmas for healthcare professionals, as they grapple with identifying the most suitable candidates for these drugs and ensuring their accessibility to those in need. This surge may pave the way for a wave of health-oriented products adopting comparable weight loss methodologies. Up-tick in Wellness Tourism The travel sphere is experiencing a notable uptick in wellness-focused tourism, where travelers seek journeys centered around health, rejuvenation, and overall well-being. Emerging trends like slow safaris , star bathing , mindfulness immersion  and sylvotherapy are gaining traction. Destinations such as Bali are now offering transformative spiritual voyages, somatic healing practices, restorative yoga packages, shamanic healing sessions, and chakra harmonization opportunities. Whether it's the Ananda in Rishikesh, Atmantan in Pune, Shreyas Yoga Retreat in Bengaluru, or Amal Tamara in Kerala, a growing roster of highly specialized alternative and integrative retreats is expanding across India. Elevated Focus on Social Connections In the aftermath of prolonged isolation due to the pandemic, there's a growing thirst for meaningful social connections. Wellness venues like salons and spas have taken on a new dimension by curating events that foster a deep sense of community among their clientele. Meanwhile, gyms and fitness studios have evolved beyond being mere workout spots; they've become vibrant centers that cultivate motivation! This transformation has brought about a more inclusive atmosphere in everyone's fitness journey. Groups involved in communal fitness activities, whether through sports or hiking expeditions, are now forging bonds among their members. They're embracing the essence of togetherness, seen in everything from collective meditation sessions to community spaces offering alcohol-free beverages. These social wellness initiatives are poised to nurture a profound sense of belonging among participants. Undoubtedly, 2024 stands at the forefront of a paradigm shift. These emerging trends and innovative technologies promise a redefined outlook on health, ensuring that holistic well-being takes center stage in our lives. With an array of transformative strategies and advancements, this year paves the way for a healthier and more informed future.

Picture this: stepping into Chapung Sebali , tucked into the emerald hills of Ubud, Bali. The air feels thick with calm, like the island is exhaling for you. Within minutes, I knew—this wasn’t just another luxury stay. It was a retreat for the senses. Arial photo of Chapung Sebali in Ubud, Bali From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with the kind of warmth that Bali is famous for. The Tridatu bracelet they tied on my wrist was a quiet symbol of balance and protection, something I found reflected in every aspect of my stay. Photo credit: Chapung Sebali. Rice Fields As I walked through the open-air lobby, the views of layered rice terraces framed by bamboo and volcanic stone immediately grounded me. The architecture—where Danish minimalism meets Balinese soul—created an elegant, earthy quietude. There’s a magic in how it all comes together, and that’s no accident. It’s the vision of founder and designer Niki Nasr, who transformed his design sensibilities into a resort that lives and breathes intention. Photo credit: Chapung Sebali. Jungle Fish Pool Bar Mornings began with coffee at Jungle Fish, the resort’s striking cliffside restaurant and bar, where Scandinavian-style seating blends into tropical surroundings. The infinity pool below shimmered like glass, and the hum of the jungle echoed gently through the air. My villa—with its open spaces, bamboo and wood accents, and marble-clad bathroom—felt like a modern-day treehouse designed for rest. Photo credit: Chapung Sebali. Jungle Fish Restaurant But it wasn’t just the design that impressed me. The food—wow. So often, wellness cuisine feels like a compromise. Here, it was a celebration. Every dish, crafted by their passionate culinary team, leaned into fresh, local ingredients. I was stunned by the variety of vegetarian options that didn’t feel like afterthoughts but true stars of the menu—flavors that lingered long after the meal ended. Photo credit: Chapung Sebali. Upper Deck Restaurant And then, the spa. Each day I found its way back to the spa, a peaceful cocoon tucked into the resort’s lush embrace. I signed up for an early morning yoga class followed by a signature massage that used traditional Balinese techniques with a modern, therapeutic touch. As someone who explores wellness globally, I can say this felt deeply aligned—with the land, with the culture, and with me. Photo credit: Chapung Sebali. Chapung Spa On my final morning, I walked the winding paths—from the elevated villas to the sun-drenched pool below—pausing along the way to take in the textures, the quiet movement, the layered beauty of the space. It wasn’t just restful. It felt like a return to something essential. If you’re looking for a retreat that restores body, mind, and creativity, this is it. Whether for solo reflection, a couple’s escape, or a deeper immersion into Ubud’s spiritual rhythm, Chapung Sebali offers something rare: a luxury stay that doesn’t just pamper—it awakens. Planning Your Stay Learn more about visiting Bali 📍 Chapung Se Bali Location : Ubud, Bali. 🛌 Rooms : 22 9 Deluxe Suites 5 Deluxe Pool Suites 5 One-Bedroom Villas 2 Two-Bedroom Villas 1 Two-Bedroom Residence 🌿 Wellness Highlights : Jungle Fish Pool Bar & Restaurant Daily Yoga Chapung Spa with Balinese therapies Organic, plant-forward dining 🗓 When to Visit : Best months : May to September (dry season, fewer mosquitoes, cooler nights) Shoulder seasons : April, June, January–February (lower rates, fewer crowds) Tip : Book midweek for better availability and deals. Beyond the Resort: Ubud, Keliki & Tegalalang Ubud is an invitation. Surrounded by rice fields, artisan villages, and sacred temples, it offers a slower, richer experience of Bali. Keliki : A quiet village known for its intricate miniature paintings and woodcarving. Here, I met artists who welcomed visitors like family, happy to share stories passed down through generations. Tegalalang : Home to the iconic rice terraces—arguably the most photographed in Bali. But beyond the Instagram moments, it’s a place to witness centuries-old farming traditions still thriving. Together, these nearby villages remind you of the soul of Bali—one rooted in artistry, rhythm, and a sacred relationship with the land. Final Thought I left Chapung Sebali with more than a collection of spa receipts and rice terrace photos. I left with a recalibrated spirit. If you're seeking a destination that honors nature, culture, and the art of slowing down, start here.

In Los Angeles, often referred to as the 'City of Angels,' dreams take on vivid hues, and opulence is elevated to an art form. In this city of the rich and famous, homes are not mere structures; they are exhibitions of architectural and design wonder. In a place where sunshine is endless and the standards for extravagance soar to unparalleled heights, these extraordinary residences not only meet expectations but transcend them. From the luxurious bed linens that cocoon you in bliss to the captivating designs that tantalize the senses, these four bedroom homes redefine the essence of a holiday indulgence! The Glamper (Topanga Canyon) Los Angeles Home: The Glamper (Topanga Canyon) In Topanga Canyon, this architectural gem stands out with its panoramic ocean and mountain views. Designer furnishings and seamless indoor-outdoor living define this masterpiece. Enjoy privacy in a separate studio, watch sunrise vistas, cook in the modern kitchen, take a dip in the infinity pool, or unwind on deck chairs. End the day with a starlit soak in the hot tub after a delicious grill session. Beverly Hills Haven (just outside Beverly Hills) Los Angeles Home: Beverly Hills Haven (just outside Beverly Hills) This sprawling LA haven offers city access with serene retreat. Enjoy the pool, jacuzzi, fire pit, bar, gym, sauna, and cinema room. Ideal for families and friends, the terrace boasts mountain and city views. Rodeo Drive and Universal Studios are nearby for exploration. Parallel Lives (Melrose) Los Angeles Home: Parallel Lives (Melrose) Discover the sleek and ultra-modern Melrose villa with clean lines throughout. From the geometric pool to the high-end Miele kitchen, it exudes futuristic elegance. Enjoy an impressive tech setup, including a surround sound system and energy-efficient lighting. California Orange (Beverly Hills) Los Angeles Home: California Orange (Beverly Hills) This Californian gem blends 1930s charm with modern Scandinavian-inspired decor. Enjoy a private pool, spacious rooms, and a sunroom leading to a terrace. Located on a charming tree-lined street near West Hollywood and the iconic Sunset Strip, you'll have easy access to restaurants and nightlife. Los Angeles Moon (Hollywood Hills) Los Angeles Home: Los Angeles Moon (Hollywood Hills) Embrace LA living in this Hollywood Hills sanctuary. Relax in spacious, serene interiors, and savor views from multiple terraces. Enjoy a private pool and the option for extra services like private chefs and spa treatments, creating memorable experiences. Celluloid Dreams (West Hollywood) Los Angeles Home: Celluloid Dreams (West Hollywood) Perfect for work or family vacations, this centrally located home offers top-notch comfort. Enjoy a private garden with a pool, spa, and outdoor kitchen. Inside, experience California style with plush bedrooms, sleek bathrooms, and modern appliances. With a ground-floor bedroom, it's accessible for all. Hollywood Hills High (West Hollywood) Los Angeles Home: Hollywood Hills High (West Hollywood) Above the Sunset Strip, this four-story modern home offers easy access to West Hollywood's attractions. Enjoy art at LACMA, The Broad, and Hauser & Wirth, or shop at Rodeo Drive and Beverly Grove. Relax in the heated pool, hot tub, and multiple terraces. The chef's kitchen caters to home cooks, with the option for a private chef for an elevated dining experience. The California Dreamer (Encino) Los Angeles Home: The California Dreamer (Encino) This Encino gem offers California living with a private pool, tennis court, and serene rooms. Spread across two floors, it includes a spacious office and two ground-floor bedrooms. Arrange housekeeping and extra services like private chefs and spa treatments through your host. Welcome to Hollywood (Melrose) Los Angeles Home: Welcome to Hollywood (Melrose) This modern home boasts a VR treadmill and stunning design, featuring a built-in coffee machine, walk-in wardrobe, and gliding glass pocket doors merging indoor and outdoor spaces. Enjoy an outdoor heated pool and Jacuzzi. Conveniently located near shops, eateries, and famous attractions, it's perfect for all ages. I Overlooked an Orchid (North Beverly Park) Los Angeles Home: I Overlooked an Orchid (North Beverly Park) Nestled in a quiet 90210 cul-de-sac, this mid-century gem combines period charm with modern comfort. Two spacious living areas cater to gatherings around the piano and cozy movie nights. Located near the gated community of North Beverly Park, you'll share a neighborhood with Hollywood's elite, offering privacy close to Los Angeles. The Mountain Home (Encino) Los Angeles Home: The Mountain Home (Encino) Designed by a renowned architect, this mid-century home emphasizes indoor-outdoor living. The main house and guesthouse layout suits families with teens seeking privacy. Enjoy dining outdoors, gathering by the fire pit, and unwinding in the hot tub or playing pool. While a car is necessary, nearby attractions like The Getty and Santa Monica Beach are just a short drive away. The L.A. Dream (Hollywood) Los Angeles Home: The L.A. Dream (Hollywood) Located near the Hollywood Reservoir, this elegant home offers easy access to iconic attractions like the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory. Enjoy a private pool, mountain views from the firepit balcony, and added accessibility with an internal elevator. It's the perfect blend of central, luxurious, and family-friendly living.

In a world where the conscious choice to prioritize health and sustainability often comes with a hefty price tag, discovering affordable, organic, and eco-friendly products can feel like an elusive quest. However, earlier this year, we embarked on an exploration of a digital marketplace that would transform our shopping habits. Enter Thrive Market – an online haven that offers a remarkable assortment of products that not only elevate well-being but also resonate with our ethical principles. Unlocking a World of Savings: Thrive Market Membership Thrive Market functions on a unique membership-based model. To access their treasure trove of offerings, one must invest in a Thrive Market membership. At first glance, this may seem like a barrier, but the membership quickly reveals its worth. With this pass, you gain access to exclusive discounts and deals, effectively making the membership fee an investment that often pays for itself through the savings accrued on high-quality products. However, Thrive Market's value proposition transcends personal gains; it extends a helping hand through its Thrive Gives program. For every paid membership, the platform donates a free membership to a low-income family, teacher, veteran, or first responder. This initiative not only nurtures affordable health choices but also fortifies the bonds within our communities. Thrive Market Organic Apple Cider Vinegar This liquid gold transcends its counterparts, boasting a delightful taste crafted from the fermented cider of fresh, organic apples. It's raw, unfiltered, and organic, laden with the 'mother' – a cloudy sediment teeming with enzymes, proteins, and beneficial bacteria. Thrive Market Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw D3 2000 IU 60 capsules per bottle A clean and vegetarian vitamin D complex, this product brims with chlorella, live probiotics, enzymes, and the absence of gluten or dairy. It champions bone, breast, prostate, and immune system health. Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw D3 2000 IU 60 capsules per bottle Thrive Market Organic Tamari Gluten-Free Soy Sauce 10.1 fl oz bottle The answer to gluten-free culinary adventures, this soy sauce alternative derives from organic soybeans, fermented and aged for a minimum of nine months. It enriches your dishes with a rich, full-bodied taste, without overwhelming the palate. Thrive Market Organic Tamari Gluten-Free Soy Sauce 10.1 fl oz bottle 2-Pack Jovial Organic Grain-Free Cassava Penne Pasta 8 oz box Simplicity reigns supreme in this pasta made from a singular ingredient – cassava, paired with water. Certified gluten-free and free from the top eight allergens, it bears the USDA Organic and Non-GMO certifications. Jovial Organic Grain-Free Cassava Penne Pasta 8 oz box Garden of Life mykind Organics Vitamin B-12 Spray 2 oz bottle A delicious and efficient means of ensuring your B-12 intake, this spray is crafted from real, organic whole foods, powered by vegan methylcobalamin – the natural form of B-12. It fuels energy, metabolism, and supports the formation of healthy blood cells and DNA synthesis. Garden of Life mykind Organics Vitamin B-12 Spray 2 oz bottle Thrive Market Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil Hailing from the revered Koroneiki olives, this olive oil boasts 100% organic credentials. It's grown, harvested, and bottled on a single estate in western Crete, Greece, ensuring freshness and lower acidity. Thrive Market Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil Thrive Market Organic Sencha Green Tea 20 count Sencha, a centuries-old tea from Japan, is a testament to tradition and a way of life. Crafted with organic green tea leaves sourced from Japan, this tea offers a smooth yet strong flavor, rich in antioxidants, and imbued with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Thrive Market Organic Sencha Green Tea 20 count Thrive Market Organic Black Medium Grain Rice This black rice, cultivated in the Po Valley of Italy, mesmerizes with its deep purple hue and a scent reminiscent of freshly-baked bread. Ethically sourced, it adds a nutty flair to both sweet and savory culinary creations. Thrive Market Organic Black Medium Grain Rice InHarvest Organic Farro Sourced from family farms in Italy, this ancient grain, known for its creamy texture and buttery flavor, provides a protein-packed option with 6g per serving. InHarvest Organic Farro Semaine Health Urinary Tract Cleanse & Protect Jar 30 capsules This daily supplement, formulated with vegan ingredients and rooted in scientific backing, offers a plant-based approach to supporting urinary tract health and overall immunity. Semaine Health Urinary Tract Cleanse & Protect Jar 30 capsules We extend an invitation to explore Thrive Market and its exceptional product range. Embrace a way of life where your conscientious decisions not only enrich your well-being but also make a meaningful contribution to the shared world around us.

Situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by the Topa Topa Mountains, Ojai, California, has long been revered as a sanctuary for those seeking wellness, spiritual enrichment, and holistic healing. Located in Ojai Valley, Ojai (pronounced: Oh-Hi) is a city northwest of Los Angeles and east of Santa Barbara. Known for its renowned spas, meditation retreats, and a deep connection to nature, Ojai is a destination that nurtures the mind, body, and soul. Whether you're visiting for a day or a weekend retreat, this enchanting town offers a transformative escape from the noise of everyday life. Ojai (the red pin on this Google Map) is 64 miles northwest of Los Angeles. Time well spent in Ojai Whether you're savoring fresh olive oil, flipping through pages in an open-air bookstore, or sculpting your own pottery masterpiece, Ojai offers a soul-nourishing escape like no other. Here are some things you can do: Ojai Olive Oil Farm Tour Discover the art of olive oil making at a family-run farm, complete with tastings and insights into sustainable farming. Start your day with a visit to Ojai Olive Oil, a family-owned farm offering one of the most authentic olive oil experiences in California. During the tour, you’ll learn about sustainable farming, the benefits of olive oil for health and skincare, and the difference between green and black olives. Their shop offers a selection of exquisite oils, and their olive oil-based skincare products make for a luxurious self-care treat. 📍 1811 Ladera Rd., Ojai, CA 93023 🕙 Open Monday-Sunday, 10 AM - 4 PM 📞 Call ahead for tours: +1 (805) 646-5964 🔗 Visit Ojai Olive Oil Bart’s Books Wander through the world’s largest outdoor bookstore, a literary paradise filled with hidden gems. Bart's Books, Ojai. Photo from Google.com Step into the enchanting world of Bart’s Books, the largest outdoor bookstore in the world. This one-of-a-kind literary haven is filled with shelves of used and new books spanning every genre imaginable. Whether you're searching for a rare find or simply want to soak in the peaceful ambiance, it’s a must-visit for book lovers. 📍 302 W Matilija St, Ojai, CA 93023 🕙 Open Daily, 9:30 AM - 6 PM 📞 Contact: +1 (805) 646-3755 🔗 Visit Bart’s Books Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts Explore the life and works of the iconic ceramic artist while soaking in Ojai’s creative energy. Beatrice Wood Center, Ojai. Photo credit: Google.com Discover the artistic legacy of Beatrice Wood, one of the most influential ceramic artists of the 20th century. This serene art center features her stunning pottery, rotating contemporary art exhibitions, and glimpses into the life of the "Mama of Dada." It’s a beautiful way to experience Ojai’s creative spirit. 📍 8585 Ojai-Santa Paula Rd, Ojai, CA 93023 🕙 Open Friday-Sunday, 11 AM - 5 PM 📞 Contact: +1 (805) 646-3381 🔗 Visit Beatrice Wood Center Heavenly Honey Company Sample locally sourced raw honey and take home a jar of liquid gold. Heavenly Honey Company, Ojai. Photo credit - Google.com Indulge in a delightful honey tasting experience at Heavenly Honey Company, a family-run shop offering locally sourced raw honey. Sample a variety of flavors, from wildflower to sage, and learn about the benefits of raw honey. Their gift-worthy jars make for a perfect souvenir to take home. 📍 206 E Ojai Ave, Ojai, CA 93023 🕙 Open Daily, 10 AM - 5 PM 📞 Contact: +1 (805) 646-5156 🔗 Visit Heavenly Honey Company Firestick Pottery Get hands-on with clay and create your own artistic keepsake. Firestick Pottery, Ojai. Photo from their website Tap into your creative side with a pottery session at Firestick Pottery. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, the studio offers classes and open studio time where you can craft your own ceramic masterpiece. It’s a fun, hands-on way to experience Ojai’s artistic energy. 📍 1804 E Ojai Ave, Ojai, CA 93023 🕙 Open Daily, 10 AM - 5 PM (Call ahead for classes) 📞 Contact: +1 (805) 272-8760 🔗 Visit Firestick Pottery Lunch and Spa Indulgence at Ojai Valley Inn Savor a gourmet meal before unwinding with a luxurious spa treatment at this world-class retreat. Photo credit: Ojai Valley Inn in Ojai, CA A trip to Ojai wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the legendary Ojai Valley Inn. This world-class resort, established in 1923, is a haven for relaxation, featuring a renowned Spa Ojai, a championship golf course, and stunning mountain views. Even if you're not staying overnight, you can book a day pass for their spa and indulge in luxurious treatments such as the Kuyam Experience, a unique blend of dry heat, essential oils, and desert clay for deep purification. For lunch, we opted for the Spa Café, a health-conscious dining spot within the resort, offering fresh, organic meals. The restaurant staff was incredibly accommodating, happily providing vegan, vegetarian, and dairy-free options. 📍 Ojai Valley Inn, 905 Country Club Rd., Ojai, CA 93023 📞 For spa reservations: +1 (855) 697-8780 🔗 Check out their wellness offerings Beyond a Day Trip: Ojai’s Spiritual & Wellness Retreats If you have more time, Ojai’s spiritual and wellness scene is worth exploring in depth. Here are some standout experiences: Meditation Mount Meditation Mount in Ojai. Photo credit: Google listing Perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the valley, Meditation Mount is a sacred space dedicated to inner peace and reflection. Visitors can participate in guided meditations, silent retreats, and special events focused on mindfulness and personal growth. 📍 10340 Reeves Rd., Ojai, CA 93023 🔗 Visit Meditation Mount The Krishnamurti Educational center Krishnamurti Retreat in Ojai, CA. Photo credit: Google.com listing For a deeper intellectual and spiritual experience, the Krishnamurti Center offers a serene environment to explore the teachings of philosopher J. Krishnamurti. The retreat provides quiet spaces for contemplation, walks through beautiful gardens, and access to an extensive library. If you wish to stay here, please review the Retreat page. 📍 1098 McAndrew Rd., Ojai, CA 93023. The center is closed on Mondays. The reception is open Tuesdays-Fridays 10:30 am - 2:30 pm and weekends, 10 am -5 pm 🔗 Learn more Where to Stay Luxury & Wellness-Focused Accommodations For those looking to extend their stay, here are some top wellness-inspired accommodations: Ojai Valley Inn The ultimate luxury wellness retreat. Features a spa, yoga classes, and scenic views. Caravan Outpost A chic, bohemian-style glamping site with stylish Airstream trailers and communal fire pits. Caravan Outpost. Photo credit: Expedia Su Nido Inn Mission revival style architecture, with spacious villas built around a charming courtyard Su Nido Inn in Ojai. Photo credit: Expedia Ojai Retreat and Inn Bed and breakfast in Ojai with free breakfast. Onsite yoga and massage are available, book in advance Ojai Retreat and Inn in Ojai. Photo credit: Expedia Casa Ojai Inn Motel with a saltwater pool and spa, located near the Soule Park Golf Course Casa Ojai Inn in Ojai. Photo credit: Expedia Ojai is a charming town and a holistic retreat that nourishes both the body and soul. Whether you’re here for a spiritual awakening, a wellness getaway, or simply to enjoy fresh air, Ojai’s enchanting energy will leave you rejuvenated. Plan your visit soon and immerse yourself in the magic of this California oasis.

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.

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.