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Ultimate Destinations SICILY PUERTO RICO BARCELONA SEDONA JACKSON HOLE

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Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa

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The Ridges Resort and Marina

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Cabins, Campgrounds, Cottages and B&B’s

Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa Offering mountain elegance for all ages, moderate climate for heavenly outdoor escapes in the surrounding forests of the Blue Ridge Mountains, year-round championship golf and a luxurious new full service spa. Whether relaxing with family and friends, or conferring with conference associates, this enchanted valley and its beautiful mountain lodge or cottage accommodations offer an unforgettable setting.

Contact Towns County Tourism Association at tourism@brmemc.net for more information or visit us online at www.mountaintopga.com or at 800-984-1543.

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Cranecreekvineyards.com

| Boundarywatersresort.com |

disco ver and explore...

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Fieldstoneresort.com

| Hightowercreekvineyards.com

Located in the heart of the North Georgia Mountains on beautiful Lake Chatuge, just two hours from Atlanta, Asheville, Chattanooga and Greenville. Our Mountain Top is serenely beautiful and adventure abounds. Resorts, Cabins, B&B’s, Spas, Art & Antiques, Concerts, Festivals, Dining, Shopping, Camping, Boating, Fishing, Hiking, Vineyards, Championship Golf and much more! Come visit and you’ll never want to leave.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Departments 4

EDITOR’S LETTER

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STYLE Fall favorites: workout and resort fashions

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BEAUTY The best finds for fall

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FITNESS Take your yoga practice to a new level

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FAMILY Retreat for an easygoing family beach getaway

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WELLNESS Real food in today’s skincare treatments

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CULINARY Mountain beauty meets modern style

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ROMANCE Explore five romantic destinations

Features 14

SICILY Find luxury at its finest in Italy

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SEDONA Enjoy pure bliss in Arizona

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BARCELONA Take an adventure through Spain

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SAN JUAN Puerto Rico’s emerging scene

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JAMAICA Stir it up in Jamaica

ON THE COVER: Rocca delle Tre Contrade occupies a stunningly panoramic position atop a hill on Sicily’s east coast. THIS PAGE: Explore pure beauty at the Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

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Simply Magical

Discover a sense of inner peace at Rosalie Bay, an

Steps away hike rainforests, swim in waterfalls, snorkel coral reefs, soak in natural hot springs and more.

Tune in to your mind, body and nature with daily yoga, power walks, healthy cuisine and farm-to-spa-table treatments at the new riverfront spa. Help endangered sea turtles on Rosalie’s black sand beach.

Retreat to Rosalie Bay Resort today and discover a place that is simply magical.

eco-boutique resort on the Caribbean’s Nature Island.

Afterward, unwind in one of 28 spacious, air-conditioned rooms and suites.

33% off 4 nights or more

Mention Healthy Travel to receive a free massage!

Rosalie Bay Dominica (877) 732-2864 www.RosalieBay.com

Being active comes naturally here

A beach vacation doesn’t have to mean endlessly lounging in a beach chair. ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ ǰȱ ǰȱęȱ ǰȱ ǰȱ ȱ ȱ of unspoiled beach are all waiting for you to discover at Fripp Island. Call our ȱ ȱ ¢ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ ȱ¢ ȱ ȱ¢ ȱ ¡ ȱ Ȭęȱ ȱ ¢ǯ

(888) 364-9166

www.FrippIslandResort.com 3

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Surround yourself in luxury at the Sanctuary at Two Rivers Yoga Center.

DO YOU HAVE A TRAVEL BUCKET LIST? I made one about five years ago, and recently I was able to knock off a few destinations, several of which you will find in this issue. I hope that as fall nears, you’ll take the time to plan a healthy getaway— one that revitalizes and renews your body and mind—before the busy holiday season is upon us. I am excited to share incredible global travel finds within this issue, from Kauai to Sicily. You’ll discover where to find the best family beach time in the off-season and how to gain balance through cool new spa treatments in Arizona. Plus, we’re bringing you mouthwatering culinary finds from Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

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As always, we showcase the best in fitness, culinary, beauty, style and wellness in this issue, including super foods for your skin, a fantastic yoga retreat in Costa Rica, sizzling finds in Puerto Rico, and a few reasons to travel to Amsterdam—as if you need more than one! Please stay in touch with us via Facebook (facebook.com/ healthytravelmag) and Twitter (@ alisonlewis). We love hearing from you. Here’s to increased passions in travel, fitness, wellness and healthy getaways!

ALISON LEWIS Editor-in-Chief

HEALTHYTRAVELMAG.COM

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healthytravel Publisher GINA CHRISTMAN Editor-in-Chief ALISON LEWIS Art Director ELIZABETH ANDERSON Health & Nutrition Editor CAROLYN O’NEIL Contributing Copy Editors STEPHANIE GIBSON, TARA VOLKMANN Editorial Contributors KAREN ASP, VIRGINIA BROWN, LAUREN LIPPEATT, BOB COOPER, SHELBIE LANDRY

Advertising Specialist, Travel MIRIAM WAGNER-GRIFFIN (EXT. 498)

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HEALTHYTRAVELMAG.COM FROM THE PUBLISHERS OF

Editor-in-Chief ELIZABETH RALLS Associate Publisher BRAD HANNER (EXT. 417) Senior Account Executive DEBBIE BROWN (EXT. 419) Account Executive TRACIE BERNSTEIN (EXT. 492) Marketing/Digital Advertising Coordinator LINDSEY WOHLFROM President ADAM JAPKO Vice President, Sales & Marketing HOLLY PAIGE SCOTT Production Manager SHANNON MCKELVEY Production Manager JUDSON TILLERY Circulation Manager KURT COEY Newsstand Manager BOB MOENSTER ADVERTISING AND EDITORIAL OFFICES 1100 JOHNSON FERRY ROAD, CENTER TWO, SUITE 685 ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30342 PHONE (404) 252-6670 FAX (404) 252-6673 EDITORIAL INQUIRIES: EDITOR@ATLANTAHOMESMAG.COM ADVERTISING INQUIRIES : GCHRISTMAN@ATLANTAHOMESMAG.COM SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION (800) 264-2456 PRINTED IN U.S.A.

President/CFO GERRY PARKER Senior Vice President ADAM JAPKO Vice President, Finance DIANA YOUNG Group Vice President, Interactive STUART RICHENS

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*SAVE30. For consecutive night stays 8/10/14-3/5/15.Minimum 3 night stay required. Offers cannot be combined with any other promotional offerings, discounts, groups or packages. Based on availability and not available on all room types. Restrictions and blackout dates apply.

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STYLE

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Fall Fashion Finds 9 travel-friendly workout and resort fashions

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By ALISON LEWIS

1 SUPERFISHAL STAND-UP

5 HELLO TOKYO ZENA CLUTCH

PADDLEBOARD The SUPerFISHal

This leather clutch is a fun nod to

is the newest creation from Jackson

one of our favorite cities. $298;

Kayak that is certain to revolutionize

katespade.com 6 THE YETI TUNDRA

the stand-up paddling market.

45 COOLER This versatile cooler,

The ability to stand and cast a line

with its 26-can capacity and easy

in any water anywhere will strike

portability, is infused with that

fear in fish worldwide. Its width,

legendary YETI toughness—made

length and thickness not only offer

from roto-molded polyethylene. It is

incredible stability, but also afford

also UV-resistant, heavily insulated

users the ability to load it up for

and indestructible. It’s perfect for a

overnighters or take along the kids.

day on the lake. $349.99; yeticoolers.

$999; jacksonkayak.com 2 BEDFORD

com 7 LARA YOGA MAT BAG

SQUARE KINSLOW HANDBAG This

BY LOLË You never know when

chic leather satchel with color block

you’ll have to pick up a few things

detailing looks great for fall airport

after a yoga or Pilates class. Use

travel and works for smart daytime

this bag to carry your mat to the

or evening wear. $398; katespade.com

studio, and then transform it into

3 INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

a larger duffle bag when you go

ADAPTOR Color-coded plugs allow

shopping later. $80; lolewomen.

you to easily adapt electronics in

com 8 YOSI SAMRA’S FOLDABLE

more than 150 countries. Essential

BALLET FLATS Yosi Samra was

for frequent fliers or those on a

one of the original innovators of

multi-country itinerary, the four-in-

the fold-up flat. The shoes fold

one adapter is the first product to

to fit into a 5- by 3-inch package,

utilize a color-coded world adapter

perfect for tossing in your handbag

system that makes finding the

for convenient shoe changes on

right plug for your trip as simple as

the go. $88; yosisamra.com 9 BOSE

matching the colors. $25; flight001.

QUIETCOMFORT HEADPHONES The

com 4 KA‘IULANI Inspired by

new QuietComfort 20 headphones

the renowned horsemanship of a

are the first in-ear, noise-canceling

Hawaiian princess, the Ka‘iulani

headphones from Bose. They deliver

makes a strong statement with a low

a stunning breakthrough in noise

profile. These features include high-

reduction, audio performance and

character leather, custom breadfruit

comfort, and offer two ways to

leaf detailing, full-length zipper,

listen—one to shut out the world and

leather pull tab and three-point

one to keep you connected. They

buckle adjustability. $190; olukai.com

fit in your pocket and only weigh 1.5 ounces. $299.95; bose.com

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BEAUTY

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Natural Beauty Fall-fresh beauty picks

By ALISON LEWIS

1 LOVE CONDITIONER Nip frizzy

5 AFTER-SUN SOOTHING GEL For

hair in the bud (and simplify

calming comfort and an immediate

your morning routine) by using a

decrease in skin’s temperature after

specialized smoothing conditioner in

excess sun exposure, this potent

the shower. This creamy concoction

compound of proline and water

calms frizz and loosens tangles,

lily extract combine to soothe,

making your whole hairstyling

desensitize and gently alleviate sun-

process a lot simpler. $27.50;

sensitive skin. $38; pevonia.com

davines.com 2 PASTEL BRIGHTS

6 BED HEAD MATTE SEPARATION

EYE PALETTE With six mix-and-

For guys who want hold and a

match shades, this eye palette is the

natural finish, this pliable wax with

epitome of autumn chic. This set

matte definition will add style (and

features everything you need to take

humidity resistance) to untamed hair.

eyes from day to night, including the

$16; bedhead.com 7 TIARE JASMINE

perfect base shadow, a pretty array

TEA BATH & SHOWER GEL This

of metallic pastels and a dark shadow

luscious gel combines pure extracts

for lining. $52; bobbibrowncosmetics.

of green, white and black teas,

com 3 OBAGI PROFESSIONAL-C

which provide soothing, all-natural

EYE BRIGHTENER This eye product

benefits for a perfectly cleansed and

improves the appearance of dark

nourished body. $28; juaraskincare.

circles and crow’s-feet by harnessing

com 8 HOPE CANDLE Made from a

the power of a unique blend of

blend of soy and vegetable waxes,

ingredients that helps minimize the

the warm scent of this candle is a

signs of aging. It contains vitamin C

bouquet of white jasmine, gentle

to enhance collagen synthesis and

rose and a hint of fresh coconut.

brighten skin tone as well as kinetin,

Ten percent of sales are donated

which minimizes fine lines and

to Walubi, a charitable relief

wrinkles and improves skin’s ability

organization dedicated to aiding

to retain moisture. $90; obagi.com

the poor and disaster-hit areas of

4 MUSCLE AND JOINT

Indonesia. $32; juaraskincare.com

THERAPEUTIC CREAM BY

9 INSTANT MANICURE In 45

JADIENCE This herbal extract is

seconds, you get the look of a

formulated with mori albae, ginseng

professional manicure without the

and angelica, which are highly

30 minutes in a salon. The unique

effective in relaxing sore and tight

formula fights yellowness (caused

muscles and alleviating symptoms

by polish stains, age or tobacco),

of inflammation, discomfort and

softens cuticles, oxygenates and

bruising. It is approved by world-

whitens the nail, removes odors and

class athletes and is perfect to use

brightens the overall appearance

before and after physical activities.

of nails. This makes it perfect for

$18; jadespacollection.com

the times you literally can’t spare a minute. $39 for a pack of 8; talika.com

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FITNESS

Peace and Serenity By LAUREN LIPPEATT

IN COSTA RICA, THERE IS A SAYING that represents the country’s way of life and culture: ¡Pura Vida!—“The Pure Life!” It means to live a life of authenticity and truth, to leave as little of an impact on our planet as possible, to live without worry, to go with the flow and to enjoy the moment. The Sanctuary at Two Rivers yoga retreat on the Nicoya Peninsula embraces that mantra with warmth, ease, love and grace. Years ago, cocreator Jeff Gossett had a vision of a completely self-sustaining, ecologically 8

friendly, environmentally healthy refuge for guests to visit, recharge and connect to nature. The Sanctuary’s name describes it perfectly. It is a place of peace and serenity where time seems to stand still and the word “worry” loses all meaning. In the solitude, tranquility and remoteness of Costa Rica sits a small village of guest houses, a pool house, yoga space and kitchen—all solarpowered and connected with paths of stone through a tropical landscape. The communal covered outdoor eating

space is a gathering post for all guests to dine and share stories and is merely steps away from one of three waterfalls located within walking distance of the property. Every meal is announced by the blowing of a conch shell—a lovely, low-pitched noise that can be heard from within any of the open-air, screened-in guest rooms on the 40acre property. All meals are vegetarian (with a vegan option) and incorporate the ancient science of Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old system of natural healing that has its origins in the Vedic

PHOTOS BY LAUREN LIPPEATT

Take your practice to a new level

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culture of India. The chef prepares every meal fresh from the best quality ingredients found on the island and around the world. Mornings include the rich, dark coffee Costa Rica has become known for, as well as a healthful breakfast. In the Ayurvedic tradition, lunch is the largest meal of the day because that is when energy and digestion are strongest. The Sanctuary is a retreat center specifically built for yoga. Various yoga teachers throughout the world lead one-week retreats or four- or five-week yoga teacher trainings. During my stay, I enjoyed the yoga and adventures of Alchemy Tours, lead by yoga teacher Silvia Mordini and her partner in love and business, Jacob Young. They are a jet-setting (and adorable) couple who travel all over the world leading

groups of 10 to 30 people through week-long yoga retreats focusing on personal empowerment, goal-setting, rejuvenation, self-reflection, adventure and relaxation. With Alchemy Tours, my group enjoyed two yoga practices a day, one in the morning and one in the evening, in the open-air pagoda. This breezy, welcoming space backs up to the jungle, where the calls of tropical birds and monkeys and the soft splashing of distant waterfalls accompany you during your practice. I easily could have spent the entire week-long retreat relaxing at The Sanctuary—practicing yoga, lounging by the pool, snoozing in hammocks, taking advantage of the spa services, but I enjoyed a day hike to three impressive waterfalls and a surfing

adventure. I felt the wind in my hair and experienced stunning views of the peninsula while boating to a snorkeling spot near Tortuga Island, with whale and dolphin sightings along the way. The week was the perfect balance of relaxation, exercise and adventuring. At the end of the retreat it was difficult to leave the family atmosphere created by owner Jeff, manager Liz Lindh, the staff at The Sanctuary and the four resident dogs. The entire team treated everyone not as guests, but as family members who had finally come home. Silvia and Jacob of Alchemy Tours were the quintessential hosts for a week in a jungle paradise. Until next time, ¡Pura Vida! 011 5068544 342; santuarycostarica.com; (872) 228-9642; alchemytours.com

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FAMILY

Autumn Family Fun: Sandestin Retreat to the Florida Panhandle for an easygoing family getaway By ALISON LEWIS

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR THE IDEAL place to make fall memories, look no farther than Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. Located on the Florida Panhandle and just a five-hour drive from Atlanta, you’ll find the best spots for quality time and so much more. Here’s a list of our top 10 favorite family things to do. 1. BEACH. Head to one of the most gorgeous strips of beach in the world, and enjoy 7 miles of pure white sand. Build a sandcastle, roast s’mores over a bonfire or just swim or kayak in the Gulf of Mexico. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a parasailing trip high above the blue-green waters. 2. BIKE. Explore Sandestin’s amazing property on bicycles. The bike shop is open daily and is located in Baytowne Marina. Breeze past incredible sights, such as golf courses, sparkling

swimming pools, tennis courts, lakes and more. 3. EXPLORE JOLEE ISLAND. Plan a picnic or walk around this 5-acre nature park lush with Florida pines. It’s located near Baytowne Wharf. 4. FISH. Grab a rod from the marina or bring your own, and cast a line at any of the 72 stocked catch-and-release ponds right on the Sandestin property. 5. PADDLEBOARD. Rent YOLO Boards (stand-up paddleboards) at Baytowne Marina. It’s easy to master this activity and a total blast for the entire family. If you have little ones too small for their own boards, they can ride on the front of yours. 6. GOLF. There are four championship courses here, so golf lovers can choose where to spend a day or even just an afternoon at a practice range. The views are worth the cart ride alone.

7. TENNIS. Sandestin is the ideal place to work on your family tennis game. Enthusiasts can choose from 15 hard HydroGrid clay courts. See schedules for daily clinics. 8. BAYTOWNE. The Baytowne Adventure Zone is a must for kids who want to try an amazing zip line, ropes course, tower climb or Eurobungy. If you want a break from the heat, head indoors to The Blast Arcade and Laser Maze for clean, air-conditioned family fun. 9. MINI GOLF. Take a swing at the Dunes Putting Course for a one-of-akind mini-golf experience. The 18-hole course is challenging fun for the entire crew. 10. HUNT CRABS. Grab your flashlight, net and a bucket, and head to the beach to search for crabs. You may just see some fireworks while you’re there. (866) 912.3224; sandestin.com

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WELLNESS

Super Foods for Your Skin Spas are incorporating ingredients from the pantry into their skincare treatments, and you can do the same at home by K AREN ASP

DON’T BE SURPRISED if during your next spa treatment your therapist takes a minute to mash up food—say, an avocado—before slathering it on your face. Skincare so real you could literally eat it? You bet. Of course, women have been using food on their skin for thousands of years. Yet that interest has recently escalated, perhaps driven by women’s desires to be more natural. “Today, women are becoming as concerned about what they put on their skin as they are about what they eat,” says Joanna Vargas, celebrity facialist in New York City and founder of Joanna Vargas Salon and Skincare Collection. As a result, spas around the country have risen to the demands, incorporating real food in their treatments. For instance, at the Spa at Sea Island in Saint Simons, Georgia, the coconut rose body polish incorporates a handmade scrub made with ground coconut, coconut oil, rose

petals, sugar and almond oil. But can foods really benefit the skin? In a nutshell, yes. “Although food products for the skin aren’t regulated like skincare products, which have to back claims with scientific studies, some foods such as green tea, berries and mushroom extract have been thoroughly researched and proven to have skin benefits,” says Jessica Wu, M.D., dermatologist in Los Angeles and author of Feed Your Face. SO WHAT FOODS MIGHT BENEFIT YOUR SKIN? Here are seven to stock your pantry with: AVOCADO: The fatty acids in this fruit restore your skin’s lipid layer, helping you stay hydrated. GROUND ALMONDS: They exfoliate the skin without irritating it. “Almond oil is also a source of fatty acids and an antiinflammatory,” Vargas says. HONEY: Honey not only has antibacterial properties, but it also can speed

healing of wounds and burns and hydrate skin. The one caveat? “Make sure you’re using medicinal honey, which has been sterilized,” Wu says. OATMEAL: “Proteins called saponins in the oats help dissolve oil and loosen dirt and makeup from your pores, which can help prevent breakouts,” Wu says. PUMPKIN AND YAMS: Both are loaded with antioxidants that protect the skin against sun damage and preserve elasticity. “Their enzymes also make these veggies great exfoliators,” Vargas says. SOY MILK: This anti-inflammatory helps reduce swelling (which is why Wu recommends it for puffy eyes) and hydrates the skin to make crow’s-feet appear softer. YOGURT: “The naturally occurring lactic acid acts as a mild alpha hydroxy acid, loosening dead skin cells and making skin look and feel smoother,” Wu says.

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CULINARY

Wonderful Wyoming Mountain beauty meets modern style By CAROLYN O’NEIL

A VISIT TO JACKSON HOLE PROMISES moose sightings, mountain vistas, world-class skiing, fabulous fly-fishing and cowboy boots year-round. Add herds of grazing elk, galleries popping with contemporary Western art, river rafting adventures and interesting local cuisine, and you have the makings of a wonderful time in Wyoming. Jackson Hole’s menus feature a variety of local fare, including craft beers, cheeses, wild huckleberries and game. “Buffalo and elk have a huge draw on our menu,” says executive chef Kevin Humphreys, of Spur Restaurant & Bar at the Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa in Teton Village. He says, “Buffalo 12

is similar to grass-fed beef. It’s a lean meat and has a dry-aged beef flavor.” Popular dishes on the menu at Spur include buffalo sliders and fries covered in elk gravy, a play on the Canadian dish called poutine. “There’s an emerging dining scene here, and the majority of restaurants use local ingredients as much as possible,” says Humphreys. At Hayden’s Post in the Snow King Hotel, the region’s products proudly star on the menu, such as a Wyoming Whiskey Manhattan and a Wyoming Angus Beef Burger served on buns made by artisan bakers at 460 Bread. There’s even a restaurant called

Local. There, you’ll find coffee-rubbed elk medallions with a huckleberry demi-glace. During the summer months, when visitors come to hike, bike, raft and flyfish, there’s plenty of trout and locally grown vegetables on the menu. If you’re not game for game, the Jackson dining scene is diverse. Bin22 is a wine and tapas bar with charcuterie platters and creative salads. The menu at Il Villagio Osteria features Mediterranean fare for mountain appetites, including house-made fennel sausage for pizzas and pastas and dark chocolate “salami” for dessert.

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GAME-ON NUTRITION

WHERE TO STAY

Both buffalo (bison) and elk are lean meats with

DRINK UP!

Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa; tetonlodge.com

fewer than 200 calories per 4-ounce serving.

Dehydration occurs much more frequently in

Snow King Resort Hotel & Grand View Lodge;

As with beef and lamb, bison and elk are good

Jackson Hole than at lower elevations because

snowking.com

sources of vitamin B12, iron and zinc.

the relative humidity is very low. Dehydration can

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson

sap one’s energy, cause headaches and affect

Hole; fourseasons.com

The fresh air and abundance of outdoor activities really ramp up an appetite for mealtime

athletic performance. Take frequent water or

in the mountains. Allison Arthur, an editor of

fluid breaks during vigorous activities such as

WHERE TO GRAZE

Dishing, which is a guide to dining around

snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking, hiking

Jackson Hole and Teton Valley, says there are

and mountaineering.

Teton Village: Spur Restaurant & Bar; 307-732-6932 or tetonlodge.com/spur-dining Il Villaggio Osteria; 307-739-4100 or jhosteria.com Jackson: Bin22; 307-739- WINE (9463) or bin22jacksonhole.com Hayden’s Post; 307-734-3187 or snowking.com Local; 307-201-1717 or localjh.com Snake River Grill; 307- 733- 0557 or snakerivergrill.com

advantages to living with cool temperatures at high altitude. “Your body has to work harder to

DON’T DRINK UP!

stay warm, and you can consume more calories.

Enjoy the impressive wine lists and craft beers,

Not that we need another excuse to eat and

but drink responsibly. The effects of alcohol are

drink, but every little bit helps.”

dramatically increased at higher altitudes and can be twice as strong for the regular sea-level

HIGH-ALTITUDE HEALTH

inhabitant. Also, hangovers will be worse at high

Mountain beauty comes with a caution. The town

altitudes.

WHERE TO PLAY

of Jackson is 6,200 feet above sea level, and the peaks at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort top

SLATHER ON!

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort; jacksonhole.com

off at 10,450 feet. While only about 5 percent of

High altitude predisposes one to sunburn

Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris; jacksonholewildlife-

visitors suffer from acute mountain sickness—

because there is less atmosphere to filter out

safaris.com

with symptoms such as headaches, nausea and

ultraviolet rays. Sunscreen is mandatory. UV

insomnia—every visitor should be aware of the

filtering sunglasses protect your eyes.

WHERE TO CONNECT

effects high altitude has on the body. Here are

JH Tapped app (available on iTunes and Google

health tips for handling high-country living.

Play) lists events, weather conditions and dining options.

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SWEET SICILY A LAND OF EXTREMES AND CONTRASTS, SICILY THE MAGNIFICATION OF ALL THINGS ITALIAN. IT IS ALSO AN ISLAND OF SUPREME HISTORY, ARCHITECTURE AND GASTRONOMIC DELIGHTS.

By ALISON LEWIS

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MY

FIRST TRIP TO SICILY and my first villa experience were one in the same. After spending a few nights at Rocca delle Tre Contrade, I arrived at this conclusion: There’s simply no better way to enjoy Sicily. Complete with 11 bedrooms and space for 22 guests, you’ll also find incredible views and a staff going to extra lengths to provide the supreme comforts of home. Rocca delle Tre Contrade is just an ideal spot to visit with family and friends as it is for an intimate destination wedding. The 360-degree panoramic views take your eyes to the sparkling Ionian Sea on one side and the lava peaks of Mount Etna on the other. The inviting scent of lemons and other citrus permeates the air each time you step outside; lemon groves, fruit orchards and vegetable gardens enhance the estate. Relax by a private infinity pool, and enjoy the most delicious food you have ever tasted.

ACCOMMODATIONS Breathtaking views are standard in each of the spacious bedrooms spread across three floors. Furnishings are an elegant blend of antique, reclaimed and original pieces, which hint at the villa’s mid-19th-century origins. A calming color palette and tasteful art are found throughout the estate and complement stylish but comfortable armchairs, sofas and king- and queen-size beds. Baths are designed for guests who love top-modern fittings, local marble and largestone basins, tubs and showers. The property was recently restored by local architect Angelo Vecchio, who retained the original masonry of lava stone and white Siracusa limestone, which can be seen in the magnificent arches throughout the five living areas. Vecchio departed from traditional building techniques only for the new kitchen and dining areas, which incorporate polished concrete floors and glass walls.

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OUTDOORS Enjoy the panoramic terrace with a wide selection of al fresco dining options. Take steps through the lava stonewall to the L-shaped infinity pool. Swimming in one direction, you’ll feel as though you’re heading out into the Ionian Sea. Turn around, and you’re facing Mount Etna. Relax, swim or practice sunrise/sunset yoga poolside. It will be an experience you’ll never forget.

SERVICE The staff at Rocca delle Tre Contrade includes Antonella, a delightful and incredible cook, caretakers, housekeepers and a waiter. You’ll never lift a finger during your stay. Just let the manager know a day in advance whether you’re dining in your room, and the staff will take care of the rest, showstopping centerpieces included. Enjoy homemade muesli every morning accompanied by yogurt and fantastic breakfast cakes. (Warning: The freshly squeezed bloodorange juice is quite addictive.) For dinner, enjoy polpette, or chicken/veal meatballs, Pasta á la Norma and Involtini di melenzane con spaghetti. thethinkingtraveller.com/thinksicily

WHAT TO SEE 1. MOUNT ETNA The tallest active volcano in Europe, Mount Etna is the dominating feature of the eastern part of Sicily. When Etna erupts, travelers from all over the world come for a glimpse. Hike with a guide to gain expert knowledge. A cable car can take the sweat out of the trip up, but the descent past Valle Del Bove with its deep canyon of spent lava flows is mesmerizing. Take the villa’s 4x4 excursion in a Land Rover. You’ll veer off the beaten track to see fascinating aspects of this volcano that an ordinary tourist won’t. A volcanologist will accompany you for insight into one of Europe’s most fascinating treasures. parcoetna.it

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right to left The huge dining area adjacent to the kitchen is perfect for classic Italian dining. Enjoy spectacular views outdoors at the south-facing infinity pool. The views outside are equally as bewitching come day or night.

2. PLANETA WINERY One of Sicily’s foremost producers of

7. TAORMINA Taormina is one of the most popular

quality wines, founded in 1990 by the Planeta family, this winery put Sicily on the modern wine map. It now boasts 350 acres of vineyards divided among five estates, reflecting the diversity of Sicilian wines and grape varieties. They are currently producing more than 2 million bottles per year. planetawines.com

destinations in Sicily, where you’ll find beautiful buildings, breathtaking views, amazing shopping and bars and restaurants galore. Have lunch by the sea at Mazzaro Taormina, which has a cable car to take visitors to and from the seaside resort. The main attraction is the Teatro Greco Theater, which began hosting performances in the 3rd century. It’s worth the walk thanks to spectacular views of Sicily.

3. THE CITY OF CATANIA Sicily’s second largest city, Catania is a delightful square where Mount Etna is ever present. Several volcanic eruptions have destroyed Catania, the most devastating occurring in the 17th century. The old part of the town was rebuilt in Baroque style, with large open squares and avenues. Have lunch at Pizza Duomo for the best salads, pizzas, appetizers and desserts. 4. VENDICARI NATURE RESERVE Situated on the southernmost

part of Sicily’s east coast, Vendicari is a mixture of sandy dunes, beaches and coastlines. You may see flamingos in addition to all kinds of migrating birds. The reserve is an ideal place for walking, running, swimming and sunbathing. 5. NOTO Destroyed in 1963 by an earthquake, this lovely

town was rebuilt from scratch. The buildings are Baroquestyle, but each hosts its own design. The predominant material used is local compacted limestone, which absorbs the sun’s rays and transforms the buildings with a soft honey glow. The sunset is unreal here, so don’t miss it.

8. THE MADONIE ADVENTURE PARK If you’re staying in or near the Madonie National Park, head for Il Parco Avventura Madonie, where you’ll find an adventure playground in the woods, including rope ladder-walking, tree-climbing and cable slides. It is also possible to go mountain biking (bikes and helmets provided), trekking and horseback riding. There are picnic areas and, if you phone ahead, you can request local products such as cheeses, hams, sausages, etc. 9. GOLF Il Picciolo in Castiglione di Sicilia is the oldest course

in Sicily and has played host to a number of international tournaments, including Ladies European Tour events. Very few courses in the world boast a smoking volcano as a backdrop—but Il Picciolo is one, laid out as it is in a stunning location on the slopes of Mount Etna. This proximity to Etna and its regular eruptions provides the unusual hazard of lava flows on many of the holes, and with trees and vineyards also constantly in play, there is a premium on accurate driving. ilpicciologolf.com

6. SYRACUSA A must during your Sicily travels, Syracusa

features fabulous restaurants and trattorias. Stop at the Piazzo del Duomo, a wonderful pedestrian square home to the cathedral built on the site of an ancient temple of Athena. You’ll also find a morning street market with an excellent assortment of wines and Sicilian delicacies. The archaeological site is home to a Greek theater that dates back to the 5th century.

10. HORSEBACK RIDING ON ETNA Head to Centro Ippico

Amico del Cavallo in Misterbianco for this incredible adventure. amicodelcavallo.com; tel. 329 9509849 or 095 461882 Alternatively, in summer, horses are also available at Parco EtnAvventura in Contrada Serra La Nave in the town of Ragalna, southern Etna. etnavventura.it; tel. 333 1515904

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PURE BLISS Experience one of the best resorts in Red Rock Country. By ALISON LEWIS

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Don’t Miss: 8 OnSite Indulgences L’APOTHECARY BLENDING STATION This blending station might have been the most fun parts of my trip thanks to the opportunity to blend my own organic herbal bath salts and scrubs with Lotus Wei products and L’Auberge’s signature essence and aromatherapy. Lotus Wei handcollects exotic flower essences worldwide and infuses them into transformative elixirs, mists, skin serums and natural perfumes. Flower essences are bio-energetic infusions of flowers that work with the body’s acupuncture meridians to enhance clarity, peace and happiness. Design your bath salt,

if

YOU ARE IN NEED OF A REJUVENATING GETAWAY to refresh your mind and body, put L’Auberge de Sedona on your list. I was completely exhausted when I arrived, coming off major deadlines, an 80-hour workweek and single-mom duties. I arrived at my creek-side cottage next to Oak Creek in Sedona’s Red Rock Country, ready to relax to the core. The first night, I dined on my patio, enjoying Scottish salmon with golden and red beets amidst the sycamore trees and bright stars. During the next two nights, I slept a total of 23 hours in this peaceful place, an ideal spot for me to totally unwind. The spa at L’Auberge de Sedona is just the place to bring your body back into balance and a state of harmony. I enjoyed two of the resort’s newest spa treatments, the first of which was the Quiet Mind, inspired by the Quiet Mind flower blend from Lotus Wei. This treatment is designed for guests who are learning to turn off their minds to best experience the massage. The treatment begins with several relaxation techniques and includes the use of essences of germanium, bird of paradise and passion flower—all said to promote letting go and encouraging the dissolution of muscle tension. As the mind calms, a deeply relaxing massage takes over. The Feet in the Creek Treatment is perfect for those who want to reconnect with nature and themselves. I started by wading into the water, feeling the creek sand between my toes while I breathed in the Sedona air. After that, I was accompanied to a lounge chair beside the creek, where I soaked my feet in a tub of water and fresh rose petals while listening to the rushing water. Next, I received a head, neck and shoulder massage followed by a foot reflexology treatment with L’Auberge’s signature L’Apothecary flower essence serum (a blend of rose, rosemary and lemon blossoms). Said to help reduce stress and aid in overall sense of well-being, this reflexology treatment cured not only my back pain but my stress as well. (855) 905-5745; lauberge.com

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body scrub or body oils while learning about the healing aspects of fragrant herbs and flowers. (I made a sugar scrub consisting of roses, lavender, rose hips, cardamom and cacao; it’s my favorite shower product.) Inspired by the spa’s natural surroundings, the concept was a way to connect guests with the creek, while also creating a way for them to take a piece of Sedona home.

FULL-MOON MEDITATION Head to the edge of the creek with a yoga instructor and a fl ashlight, where you’ll sit and meditate for 10 minutes. Then go inside, where you’ll make a list of the things that don’t serve you anymore and burn the piece of paper in the fi re. Lay in savasana (the “corpse pose” in yoga) while you listen to Native American fl ute sounds to clear the mind and soothe the soul.

RED ROCK HIKE Enjoy the outdoors in one of nature’s most spectacular settings to vortex sites including Bell Rock, Airport Loop and Cathedral Rock.

GM JOG Join the general manager for an early run through Sedona’s beautiful trails.

HEALING CHINESE TEA TASTING Savor rare Chinese teas and learn about their therapeutic benefits. You’ll leave energized.

EVENING STARGAZING Join a local astronomer as he leads you to the starry wonders of Sedona.

DUCK FEEDING Participate every morning beside the creek.

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clockwise from top left Visit La Boqueria, one of best markets in the world. Located in the city of Barcelona, the Park G端ell is one of the most beautiful icons in the city. The four columns at the Magic Foundation. The ceiling at Park G端ell, La Sagrada Familia church.

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A SENSUAL ADVENTURE THROUGH

BARCELONA

Invigorate the five senses in this Spanish city by indulging in the finest gastronomy and relaxation the Mediterranean lifestyle has to offer By K AREN ASP

BARCELONA IS A CITY THAT AWAKENS YOUR SENSES. Strolling through this lively metropolis, you’ll hear street guitarists playing flamenco music, catch nose-tingling scents of Catalan dishes and take in vibrant shades of reds, yellows, greens and blues everywhere you look. Call it a wellness journey, if you will—one that will work its way into your soul.

SEE: Begin your journey by checking into the chic Hotel Arts Barcelona, one of only two hotels on the city’s almost five-kilometer beach. You’ll then have access to prime real estate from which to catch awe-inspiring sunrises over the Mediterranean. You can also easily meander to the beach to test your stamina with stand-up paddleboarding, play beach volleyball or run along the boardwalk behind the beach. (Just be prepared to skirt around the older men who gather by the dozens to play dominoes, munch on bread and cheese and sip vermouth.) If you’re looking for an intriguing visual experience, visit the Basílica de la Sagrada Família. This modern masterpiece by famed Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí was built in 1882 and is scheduled for completion in 2026. Continue to be dazzled by Gaudí at Park Güell, where you’ll find unique artwork, beautiful gardens and wonderful city views.

HEAR: Although you could spend hours listening to the crash of the waves on the beach, make your way to La Rambla, the famous pedestrian-only boulevard. Here, you’ll find street musicians (and buskers of every kind, including the famous human statues). Or visit the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, a hill that overlooks the city, which features a music and light show several nights a week. Montjuïc, by the way, is also home of sites from the 1992 Olympics as well as art galleries and museums.

TASTE AND SMELL:

For a true feast for the senses, step foot in La Boqueria, one of the world’s best and largest public markets. Of course, there are dozens of other markets where you can buy fresh fruit, cheeses, seafood or a snack for picnic lunches. In fact, I also enjoy popping into the Mercat de la Barceloneta, a quaint neighborhood within walking distance of Hotel Arts. While at La Boqueria indulge your tastebuds at small restaurants—Bar Pinotxo, a famous tapas bar, is always a crowd pleaser—or just nibble as you peruse, sampling everything from nuts to olive oils and chocolates. Get an even bigger chocolate fix by stopping at Mauri, a well-known pastry and chocolate shop in the city. My recommendation: A Catalan specialty called catànies, caramelized Marcona almonds surrounded by white chocolate (or a similar concoction) and dusted with cocoa. Cap off your Barcelona tasting tour with a glass of wine, cava or even a beer (Barcelona brews its own pilsner called Estrella Damm, which is quite tasty) at one of the city’s many tapas bars. Head to the charming Gothic Quarter, or stop by Monvínic, a hip wine bar, or Torre d’Alta Mar, a restaurant that stands 75 feet off the ground and offers 360-degree views of the city. You can also find an outstanding wine list and locally inspired tapas at Arola, Hotel Arts’s upscale restaurant where, if so inspired, your server will relay the fine art of “making” bread with tomato, a Catalan specialty. The process involves rubbing a piece of crusty bread with garlic and cut tomato, and topping it with a drizzle of olive oil and pinch of salt. One bite may just convince you that no matter how long your stay, it will never be enough to get your fill of this Mediterranean lifestyle. hotelartsbarcelona.com, barcelonaturisme.com 23

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THE NEW

The upper pool deck at San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

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BY GINA CHRISTMAN

SAN JUAN

ONCE A TOURIST DESTINATION OF DEBATABLE RENOWN, THE HISTORICAL CITY OF SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO, IS COMING BACK TO LIFE AS THE DARLING OF THE CARIBBEAN

SOMETHING VERY SPECIAL IS HAPPENING IN SAN JUAN. Among the glimmers of a growing prosperity is a new zeal for conservation—natural and cultural. Flourishing from this effort is San Juan’s emerging art and design scene which is attracting businesses, such as Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams and Aaron Stewart Home, as well as a cooler, more cultured class of traveler. It is an exciting time to visit San Juan and witness the town, formerly known for crumbling buildings and lawbreakers, morphing into a clean, bustling cultural center full of music, laughter and infectious pride. The newest source of pride lives in a formerly rundown area of San Juan’s Santurce neighborhood called Tras Talleres where an emerging culture is rooted in an unlikely art form—graffiti. This isn’t subway-style street art. On the contrary, these massive murals are commissioned (it’s an honor reserved exclusively for Puerto Rico’s most notable artists), and are considered a clever way to bedeck abandoned buildings and also vital ones. Even amateurs get in on the celebration—there is an annual festival where the paint cans come out, the bars open and the neighborhood literally “goes to town” on its mission. This revitalization is evidenced throughout San Juan, and we can’t think of a better reason to plan a visit. It’s really quite magical. EXPLORE THE NEW ARTSY VIBE RIGHT FROM YOUR HOTEL For a rich, experience-filled family vacation convenient to all points of interest, including this exciting new art scene, the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris

Casino on Avenida Ashford in the Condado neighborhood is the perfect home base. It is here that the inspiration to explore more of San Juan’s artsy soul takes root. The lobby of the hotel itself showcases magnificent works by several local artists along with beachy details, such as a massive, carved “Coral Reef” wood sculpture that welcomes guests at the hotel entrance. Now that you’ve caught a bit of the cultural fever, here’s good news: From now until December 31, 2014, visitors staying at the San Juan Marriott Resort have an opportunity to experience the latest art scene developments through a special, customized package called the “Artsy San Juan.” The package includes a threeto four-hour exploration tour of the history and emerging art scene of Santurce and Old San Juan along with four tickets to Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (MAPR). Laid out in several galleries on two floors, the MAPR showcases the colorful heritage of local art. The collection runs the gamut in terms of media and eras, but pay particular attention to the rich history of the country’s poster art, perhaps the harbinger of the current graffiti revolution. The package also includes a refreshing bonus: a 30-minute mixology class with a Red Coral Lounge bartender. Daily breakfast for two adults and two children is included along with city view accommodations. (To book, see “Planning Your Trip.”) The San Juan Marriott Resort itself is a luxurious, sprawling enclave of things to see and do. The recently renovated guest rooms are tastefully upscale, very bright and roomy

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with lovely all-marble bathrooms. Many of the indoor public spaces have a subtly lit, swanky vibe. The lobby is the virtual heartbeat of the hotel, with its immensely high ceilings and comfortable seating clusters, a favorite spot for intimate gatherings during the day or evening cocktails before dinner. At night, the Red Coral Lounge in the lobby transforms into the most energetic bar in Condado, with dancing and live entertainment. In the morning, guests can grab a pastry or sandwich along with a cup of highly regarded Puerto Rican coffee in the lobby pop-up shop called Coffee Merchant. Just off the lobby is the bustling casino where, as a surprising and homespun gesture, waiters pass around complimentary cups of steaming chicken soup or small sandwiches to guests from 5-7 p.m. The hotel’s Ocean Club Spa offers all the amenities of a world-class facility where services can be enjoyed in either treatment rooms or poolside cabanas. The spa’s attendants are beyond courteous and accommodating. The Ocean Club Fitness Center caters to guests’ health and wellness, offering yoga, water aerobics, weights and personal trainers. Physical activities extend out to tennis courts, a two-level pool complex and 500 feet of private beach. The San Juan Marriott Resort can also arrange other excursions, all designed to help guests get deeper into the heart and soul of this island. Here are a few don’t-miss destinations located within a short distance from the hotel.

colorful streets and historic Spanish Colonial architecture. This barrio offers all the charm and authenticity of its heritage without feeling too touristy. As you walk along the streets, you’ll find a shopper’s paradise—from local cigars, Panama hats and hand-crafted souvenirs, to luxury shops such as Louis Vuitton and Coach—along with many cafés and restaurants that serve up classic Puerto Rican food and drink. Stop in the home of the very first piña colada at Barrachina restaurant, or go to restaurant El Jibarita for their signature sangria and a plate of bacalaitos (fried cod fish) or yuca frita (cassava fries). PLANNING YOUR VISIT For a city that is an ultra-popular Caribbean vacation playground, San Juan is, after all, American; therefore it is easy to get to from any major airport in the continental US. Once you get there, it’s extremely simple to maneuver without the need for a passport or other travel hassles. San Juan Marriott Resort rates for the “Artsy San Juan” package start at $349/night and a minimum two-night stay is required. (To reserve, call

1-800-228-9290 or visit www.marriottsanjuan.com and use promotional code: P91.)

CONDADO The San Juan Marriott Resort lives in San Juan’s ritziest neighborhood, Condado, which feels almost like another city entirely. It hugs the gorgeous stretch of beach, and the hotels and sophisticated bistros dotted along the tree-lined Avenida Ashford give the area the glittery feel of Miami Beach. Cartier, Ferragamo and Gucci are located here. Explore Candado (and most of San Juan’s neighborhoods) on foot in order to absorb the exuberant spirit of the locals. FORTS If you’re up for a little exercise with your history lesson, explore the ramparts and grounds at Castillo de San Cristobal, the largest fortification built by the Spanish in the New World. Built to protect against land-based attacks on San Juan, it covered 27 acres when it was finished in 1783. The rich and fascinating history of this massive compound is eloquently illustrated through exhibits and plaques throughout the fort. A short distance west from Cristobal castle is the 16thcentury Castillo San Felipe del Morro. Construction on the castle began in 1539 when Spain was in control of San Juan. It’s from here that the Spanish forces fended off various maritime attacks, and you can peek through windows where cannons once stood. The old lookout towers offer 180-degree views where the ocean meets the bay, and the massive lawn in front of the Castillo has become a favorite place for sun napping and kite flying. OLD SAN JUAN Situated between Castillo de San Cristobal and Castillo San Felipe el Morro, the area of Old San Juan extends the cultural experience with its many galleries,

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DINE LIKE A LOCAL While you are traipsing around Santurce, take a break from art-seeing to enjoy a real Puerto Rican lunch where lucky locals eat, La Casita Blanca. This restaurant in the Villa Palmeras neighborhood was born when an abuela (grandmother) began cooking at home for family, then friends. Her food was so good, more and more people came to eat until the logical next step was for her to open a lunchroom. Dishes are authentic to what you would find on the stove in any local home kitchen—chillo frito (fried baby snapper) or carne guisada (stewed beef). Most entrees come with the standard side mound of rice and beans or mofongo—a dense scoop of fried green plantains (or sometimes cassava) mashed together with broth, garlic, olive oil and pork cracklings or bits of bacon. Desserts are excellent, too, and the decor is—ahem— authentically unglamorous: The most notable fixture in the indoor dining room where we sat was a huge tree that grew through the floor and poked right out of the ceiling.

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clockwise from top left The pool complex at San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino; Bronze “muse” sculptures representing various art disciplines greet visitors at the Centro de Bellas Artes in Santurce; La Casita Blanca—where the locals go for authentic fare; A Warhol-inspired example of Santurce’s graffi ti art revolution; Don Q is just one of the many premium rum brands of Puerto Rico.

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Kiyara Spa’s treatments can be enjoyed indoors or overlooking the ocean. 28

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Stir It Up!

Discover joy in Jamaica, where the reggae beat syncs with the rhythm of the ocean’s waves.

PHOTO BY JAMAICA INN

By BOB COOPER

JOY. I SAW IT ON THE GRINNING FACES of uniformed Jamaican schoolchildren; I also saw it in their parents’ brightly painted homes, many striped in the yellow and green colors of the proudly flown flag. I heard it in the music that spilled out from every village church on Sunday mornings and nightly from every ramshackle bar. I tasted it in the tropical fruits and coffee beans picked in the hills, delivered daily to the street markets and resort restaurants of Ocho Rios and Port Antonio, the two (of six) coastal cities popular with visitors to Jamaica. Yes, Jamaica stirs the soul with its joy. Look no further than the musical creations of reggae king Bob Marley and the jubilant, post-race celebrations of sprint king Usain Bolt. For a nation smaller than Connecticut and less populous than Iowa, Jamaica has shared with the world more than its share of joyful performers. The intoxicating geologic brew of steep, tropical mountains and smooth, white-sand beaches is found in few places outside the Caribbean, yet, unlike other Caribbean islands, Jamaica is often overlooked by U.S. travelers. It’s worth a look, as it’s less crowded than the Bahamas, easier to get to than Cuba and kinder on the budget than most Caribbean countries.

Splash & Slide Most Jamaican resorts supply kayaks and snorkeling, while diving, windsurfing, kiteboarding and hopping aboard party catamarans also generate joy on the water. But the land activities are more full of surprises. Bobsledding and waterfall hiking in Ocho Rios, anyone? Made famous by the movie Cool Runnings, Jamaican bobsledding (on rails, not snow) is the main attraction at the Mystic Mountain Rainforest Adventures, where you and the kids can also plunge down a water slide or canopy zip line after riding up a chairlift. Nearby is the equally popular hike up Dunn’s River Falls on a natural staircase of shiny limestone boulders. Plan on holding hands with strangers to form human chains in the waist-deep water. That’s almost normal compared to equestrian swimming at Sandy Bay’s Chukka Horseback Ride n’ Swim. It starts with a tame trail ride through mango and guava trees but finishes at a gallop in saddle-deep water in Chukka Cove. It was hard to tell if my horse, Mancha, was swimming laps or prancing on tippy toes, but my guide assured me, “It’s fun for him.” For me, too. More fun awaited in the mile-high 29

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above From inside a Jamaica Inn suite, the ocean comes to you. right

Horseback riding in the ocean? It’s a must in Jamaica. opposite page, left to right Healthy breakfasts are offered each morning at Jamaica Inn; the inn’s cabana suites are beachfront.

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Blue Mountains, where my group rode cruiser bikes for 10 downhill miles through a rainforest reserve and past rows of coffee plants to a waterfall. On this particular Blue Mountain Bicycle Tour, a soaking thunderstorm transformed the narrow road into a waterfall itself. But my namesake Bob’s wisdom rang true: “Don’t worry/about a thing/’cause every little thing/gonna be all right.”

PHOTO BY JAMAICA INN; HORSEBACK PHOTO BY TYRONE BURKE

Lazy Luxury Coastal resorts are plentiful in Jamaica, but few boast the luxury of Jamaica Inn, arguably the best on the island. You needn’t stay in a cottage (each with a private spa tub, outdoor shower and ocean-view deck) to enjoy all that the resort has to offer. No matter what accommodations you choose, options include croquet on the lawn, morning yoga on the private beach, swimming in the private cove, or indulging in a moonlight couples massage. (Or, do as I did one morning: take the inn’s glass-bottom kayak out for a 90-minute roundtrip paddle to the British colonial heart of Ocho Rios). While the inn’s restaurant brings the outdoors in, with all tables open to the tropical flower-perfumed air, the rooms keep the outside world out, with no TVs, radios, desks or clocks to distract you from romance. (800) 837-4608; jamaicainn.com

Family Friendly Goblin Hill Villas is typical of Jamaican accommodations that welcome kids. The hillside spread near Port Antonio

offers duplex-type units with comfy living rooms, TVs and kitchens. There’s no restaurant, but a personal cook will shop and prepare breakfast, lunch or dinner by arrangement. While the kids are at Goblin’s playground, pool or PingPong tables, you can stroll the nature trail and gardens or relax on the Great Lawn’s Adirondack chairs, which face the turquoise ocean and San San Beach. After 5 p.m., you can drain Red Stripes at the resort’s Tree Bar, wedged into the branches of a 300-year-old ficus. (876) 925-8109; goblinhill.com

Jerk Joints These roadside establishments are not sports bars—they serve jerk chicken, which is as much a staple of local tastes as Blue Mountain coffee, Red Stripe beer and white rum. The chicken is marinated in allspice and other spices on a pimento wood fire to ensure its uniquely piquant taste. Wash it down with one of the aforementioned national beverages, and you’ll be an honorary Jamaican.

If You Go Come any time, because the average daily highs are in the eighties year-round. Once you arrive, plan to get around in minibuses and cabs, not a rental car, because driving in Jamaica will drive you nuts, and there’s that left-side-ofthe-road thing, too. But the island isn’t that big anyway, and most hotels have their own beaches (or there’s one nearby). English is spoken widely and American dollars—and Americans—are joyfully welcome everywhere. 31

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ROMANCE

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Fall into Romance Five diverse and idyllic destinations perfect for stealing away with your other half this season by SHELBIE LANDRY and ALISON LEWIS

FROM HIKING AND EXPLORATION to wine tasting and spa treatments, Healthy Travel has gone coast to coast to help you find the most romantic vacation resorts for two, regardless of the occasion, destination or activity preference, these resorts offer an escape from the harried and hectic and the chance to reconnect and relax with the one you love. 1. ST. THOMAS, US VIRGIN ISLANDS Featuring gorgeous views, world-class dining and a new romance package, Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort promises an unforgettable island escape complete with Caribbean views and tropical sun. With the romance package, couples can share Champagne and fresh fruit upon arrival, a buffet breakfast each morning and a dinner at one of the resort’s signature restaurants. Choose the Royal Suite, a bi-level, loft-style bedroom with outdoor balcony space, separate bath and shower, a whirlpool and a sofa bed, or the Morning Star Villa with a beachside view. (340) 776-8500; marriott.com

2. LAKE ARROWHEAD, CALIFORNIA At Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa, guests will enjoy a rustic retreat complete with hiking trails, hot springs, spa days and a Fall in Love package for two. After arriving in one of the lakeview guest rooms, couples can enjoy the spectacular scenery 32

over a bottle of sparkling wine and chocolates, daily breakfasts throughout their stay and a photo frame memento of their romantic visit. Start your day with an easy hike on the Goat Trail in the San Bernardino National Forest. The trail will lead you to dip your toes in the Deep Creek Hot Springs and take in stunning views of the surrounding mountain range. Upon return to the resort, soothe any sore muscles at the Spa of the Pines with a custom couples massage or body treatment that incorporates indigenous natural plants and scents such as pine, sage, lilac and holly. Wind down at sunset on a chartered boat tour of the lake. As you pull into the resort’s dock, make a stop on the beach for a well-deserved s’more by the fire, followed by a romantic dinner with panoramic lake views. (909) 336-1511; lakearrowheadresort.com 3. MONTAUK, NEW YORK With its ocean views, world-renowned spa and therapeutic pools, the newly renovated Gurney’s Montauk Resort and Seawater Spa offers couples the optimum in luxury relaxation. Listed as one of Vogue magazine’s “world’s best spa resorts” and also a prime wedding destination, the resort’s tradition for romance and seclusion with a Hamptons flair is sure to please anyone. (631) 66-2345; gurneysinn.com

4. NEWBERG, OREGON At The Allison Inn & Spa, couples are

invited to revel in the natural beauty of Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine country. Couples can hike short trails on the property or take advantage of the area’s vast hiking opportunities, including a 9-mile country trail winding through amazing foliage and wildlife. Guests may also enjoy the tastes of the region at the resort’s signature restaurant, which offers local and seasonal ingredients and an extensive wine list with more than 800 choices. (877) 294-2525; theallison.com

5. ASPEN, COLORADO With its new private bath service, Hotel Jerome offers a personal therapist to draw a bath, and provides you with an option of three therapeutic bath salts or Argan bath oil. A fruit plate is also provided along with any other food and beverage item. Also enjoy one of Hotel Jerome’s many Auberge Adventures, Night Rafting and Private Beach Dinner. You’ll appreciate the allure of the great outdoors with a scenic evening float trip in the beautiful Colorado Rockies. Begin your adventure in the late afternoon with a short transfer to the river, and take in the scenery, wildlife and setting sun. Arrive at a private beach area adorned with tiki torches, and enjoy a gourmet dinner made by your private chef. At the conclusion of dinner, guests will board the rafts again, but this time with night vision goggles to experience the water and wildlife by night. (970) 9201000; hoteljerome.com

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