Bello AUGUST 9, 2016
SUMMER 16’ IN THE CITY
Bello PUBLISHER IMAGE NATION STUDIO L.L.C. California, USA editorial@bellomag.com ADVERTISING advertising@bellomag.com Aleksandar Tomovic (editor in chief) alek@bellomag.com Stephane Marquet (creative director) steph@bellomag.com Leslie Alejandro (executive director) leslie@bellomag.com Dio Anthony (entertainment editor) dio@bellomag.com Warren Alfie Baker (fashion director) warren@bellomag.com Nicole Walmsley (beauty editor) nicole@bellomag.com Dee Trillo (senior lifestyle and travel editor) dee@bellomag.com Michelle Ganney (associate entertainment editor) michelle@bellomag.com Fabio Fernandez (fashion news director) fabio@bellomag.com Kimmy Erin Kertes (fashion editor-at-large) kimmy@bellomag.com Hiko Mitsuzuka (entertainment editor-at-large) hiko@bellomag.com Morgan Stewart (lifestyle editor at large) boobsandloubs@bellomag.com Steven Carver (international editor) steven@bellomag.com Brent Lambert (design and technology editor) brent@bellomag.com Jon Norris (european editor) jon@bellomag.com Mark Norris (european editor) mark@bellomag.com Amanda Peixoto-Elkins (creative director, latin america) amanda@bellomag.com INTERNS PAULO ACUÑA (editorial assistant) paulo@bellomag.com CELESTE PIRAINO (social media and communications assistant) celeste@bellomag.com LAYOUT NEBOJSA DOLOVACKI CONTRIBUTING WRITERS COVER STORY: DIO ANTHONY DEE TRILLO (Travel and Beauty) HIKO MITSUZUKA (Entertainment) JON NORRIS (Fashion) CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS COVER: DUSTY ST. AMAND HAGOP KALAIDJIAN
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EDITOR’S
note,
AUGUST, 09, 2016
Summer is undoubtedly my favorite season of the year. It’s filled of new experiences and new faces, and there’s always on very anticipated movie. Looking HBO’s short lived series about a group of gay men living in present day San Francisco was that movie to all of the dedicated fans it garnered over the the series’ wrong. Within the gift of a movie that also served as a closing chapter for these characters was breakout start Raul Castillo, Known to fans of the show as Ritchie, Patrick’s past lover and possible soulmate. In This summer’s Summer Sixteen issue, we spotlight this breakout store years ahead of his A-list status. Mark my words, I’m rarely wrong. Entertainment Editor,
Dio Anthony.
PHOTO BY MAARTEN DE BOER
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CO NTEN TS
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TB MOMENT OF THE WEEK
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THE HOLLARS & OTHER PEOPLE
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BRIGHTON
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YLATI
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APOLLO: MEREDITH MICKELSON
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S.O.S BEAUTY CARE
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COVER STORY RAUL CASTILLO
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SUMMER SUN SAVERS
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AUGUST
TRAVEL: SAN JUAN MARRIOTT RESORT
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Photography mega-DUO, SOSA + ART will do anything get that cover shot. JULY 2016
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Bello At The Movies BY HIKO MITSUZUKA @THEFIRSTECHO
REVIEW: THE HOLLARS Dysfunctional family dramedies have now become a staple in the indie world.
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They usually involve a proverbial Prodigal Son or Daughter returning to their hometown to either learn a lesson or make amends while leaving a poignant impact on the rest of his relatives and loved ones. It’s usually one of the
themes in any treacle-laden holiday film (The Family Stone, Love The Coopers), but by now, we’ve seen plenty of these stories in more intimate and modestly budgeted productions (Garden State, Young Adult). 2014’s This
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Is Where I Leave You and the adaptation of August: Osage County even attempted to turn the concept into all-star affairs, flooding the screen with stars to play out the domestic strife.
in an all-too-brief role. And always re-
That must be why John Krasinski’s The Hollars feels so blandly familiar. While it does have a cloying charm and features an ensemble of capable actors, nothing about the story and its execution feels particularly fresh or new.
Serviceably directed by Krasinski him-
Krasinski plays John Hollar, a struggling New York City artist with a pregnant girlfriend (Anna Kendrick) who’s summoned back home when his mother (the always wonderful Margo Martindale) is hospitalized. There, he has to deal with his emotional father (Richard Jenkins), who’s struggling with the family business, and his older, burnout brother Ron (Sharlto Copley), who’s having a hard time seeing his daughters warm up to his ex-wife’s new husband (Josh Groban...yes, that Josh Groban). And then there’s John’s old flame Gwen (because there’s always an old flame who never left town), who still harbors feelings for him. She’s played by Mary Elizabeth Winstead 7
liable for some comic relief is Charlie Day, playing Gwen’s doofy husband who conveniently happens to be John’s mom’s nurse at the hospital.
self and written by Jim Strouse, The Hollars is a decent enough production, hitting all the right marks and nicely balancing humor and heartache (a bedside joke about Jenny Craig is both heartwrenching and hilarious), but it’s a paint-by-numbers portrayal of a family in crisis. The film, Krasinski said in a statement, “can be at once universal in its themes and uniquely personal in its heart and sense of humor.” That’s fine and all, but for anyone who’s sat through the aforementioned films, that sentiment could be applied to any of those titles. That’s why it’s a little disappointing to see such a promising group of players be forced to run through such a beenthere-done-that set of theatrics. RATING (out of 5): 2 (Opens August 26 in theaters) August 2016 - BELLO
REVIEW: OTHER PEOPLE Much like the aforementioned The Hollars, writer-director Chris Kelly’s semi-autobiographical dramedy, Other People, studies the familial relationships surrounding an ailing matriarch. However, unlike that John Krasinski tearjerker, this mother-son saga is full of more sharply observed moments as well as a sharper wit that helps the dra-
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ma (and comedic bits) feel less forced or manufactured. A wonderful Jesse Plemons (Breaking Bad, Fargo) stars as David, a comedy writer trying to make it in Manhattan who winds up spending the better part of a year staying home to take care of his cancer-stricken mom (Molly Shannon in an eye-opening, career-defining role). The film is mainly a chronicle from David’s perspective, broken into monthly chapters, subtly observing
how he deals with his unconditionally loving mother’s illness while struggling with a stalled career and a broken yet compassionate relationship with his boyfriend (Hello, Silicon Valley’s Zach Woods). The film also takes on an episodic look at the relationships David left behind in his hometown of Sacramento: with his younger sisters (Madisen Beaty and Maude Apatow), his grandparents (June Squibb and Paul Dooley), his
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tough-to-crack father (Bradley Whitford), and a high school pal named Gabe (John Early), a distracting confidant who can relate to David’s strife. Also, a bonus: keep an eye out for J.J. Totah’s showstopping performance as Gabe’s highly theatrical little brother Justin. Other People delivers well on the laughs, certainly on the tears (the brilliant opening scene swiftly sets the stage with a poignant family moment interrupted by an answering machine message). It’s also an impressive calling card for Chris Kelly, an SNL writer who also has ties to Comedy Central’s Broad City and Funny or Die. His feature-length directorial debut is a confident one. No wonder it wowed audiences at both Sundance earlier this year and Outfest earlier this summer, particularly for the out-of-left-field performances from Plemons and Shannon -- these two shine. And so does the movie. RATING: 4.5 (Opens September 9 in theaters and on VOD.) 9
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Brighto Photography by ALEX KING & MAX POTH
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HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA
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WILHELMINIA
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A TRADITION OF AVANT GARDE FOOTWEAR - 100% HANDMADE IN ITALY
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WRITTEN BY JON NORRISÂ
he Italians are well known for their exuberant sense of style, capturing the hearts and minds of fashion aficionados the world over. Perhaps then, it is not surprising that tangible virtues of quality, craftsmanship and design are seen in many a fashion house in Italy, flailing from the doorsteps down the winding close-knit cobblestone streets we all love to admire so much. Born out of this wholesome Italian tradition, come a unique, forward thinking and extremely high quality footwear brand, called YLATI.
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Evoking the Phlegrean Field atmosphere for which the brand was born into, YLATI footwear represents a variety of lifestyles, each transcending the different parts that make up an individual, and what in truth, adds up to be us, as people. With versatility at its heart, its no wonder people are talking so much about this special footwear 21
brand, we all want to be everything, everyday nowadays, and YLATI allows us to be, just that. A forward thinking brand, it appeals to the people that love attention to detail, in life and in their outfit – a man doesn’t need a huge wardrobe, he just needs the right contents. Allowing their
range to ooze from current trends, it’s a perfect combination of Italian tradition, high quality materials and an avant-garde approach that makes YLATI such a flawless and irresistible footwear brand that everyone wants to be seen in. Please visit https://eu.ylatifootwear.com for more information on their products August 2016 - BELLO
EDITOR PICKS AMALFI LOW 2.0 BLACK GUMMY LEATHER Art. 3016 - AMALFI Low 2.0 Black Gummy Leather Handmade in Italy by our experienced factory established in Napoli in the South of Italy since 1948
Upper : Black gummy leather, black nabuk reinforced heel, extended padded collar, padded tongue, premium calf skin liner Sole : Margom Black White Glossy
AMALFI LOW 1.0 CREAM LEATHER SUEDE Art. 3011 - AMALFI Low 1.0 Cream Leather Suede Handmade in Italy by our experienced factory established in Napoli in the South of Italy since 1948
Upper : Cream laser cut suede, cream microperf leather, cream italian nappa, padded tongue, premium calf skin liner Sole : Margom Cream
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APOLLO M eredith Mickelson explores the edge of civilization, dressed in fashions that examine the relationship between the man made and the machine made.
Man vs. Machine explores the relationship between handmade and the mechanized in fashion. The talent and craftsmanship in the process of making a garment are highlighted by the tenets of design: embroidery, lacework, leatherwork, artificial flowers, pleating, tailoring, and dressmaking. Designers wish consumers would acknowledge and appreciate the workmanship of handmade, rather than continue the fast-paced demand of fast fashion.Â
ONE PIECE HAUS OF PINKLEMONAID SKIRT MAC DUGGAL HEELS STUART WEITZMAN CHOKER LEON 23
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DRESS PRB PRIVATE COLLECTION HEELS CHLOE CUFFS CHARLES ALBERT
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DRESS FEW MODA SKIRT GENEVIEVE CLIFFORD VISOR LEON CUFF CHARLES ALBERT
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GOWN LETHICIA BRONSTEIN EARRINGS DRUKKER DESIGNS
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SUIT ECRED LABEL
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GOWN LETHICIA BRONSTEIN NECKLACE LEON SHOES ALESSANDRA G
PHOTOGRAPHER: HAGOP KALAIDJIAN • FASHION STYLIST: MELISSA TRIBER HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST: MEGHAN NGUY • PRODUCER: DAVID ANTHONY NELSON MODEL: MEREDITH MICKELSON • SPECIAL THANKS TO RHIYEN SHARPE AND LORILEE MICKELSON 29
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Splurge or Steal: Beauty Care For Summer BY DEE TRILLO SENIOR TRAVEL AND LIFESTYLE EDITOR| @HAUTEFRUGALISTA| DEE@BELLOMAG.COM
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ummer can literally be grueling for the health of our skin and hair. Excessive sun exposure and contact with salt water and chorine, are some of the factors that can take your skin from supple to sad.
I have identified some of the most common problems we face during this season via questions I have received from you, my lovely BELLO Mag readers and social media followers, and decided to search for the best products to combat these annoying problems. If you have a beauty, travel or style question, feel free to send me a note via social media @HauteFrugalista, and I will fulfill the request on an upcoming S.O.S feature.
SkinAuthority Wrinkle Reversing Serum: Orange and Lemon Peel Oil, and patented SGF-4 technology produced from body’s natural proteins will make your skin smoother, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, improve firmness, and fade discoloration. Works great under makeup or under moisturizer. $140 www.SkinAuthority.com
Shea Moisture Sensitive Skin Mud Mask: Peace Rose Oil Complex made with Alpine, Damask, and Musk Rose Oils, Date Palm, and Camellia Extracts purify and sooths sensitive skin, leaving it soft and nourished. $15 www.SheaMoisture.com
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Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution: One of the major skin issues left behind by the summer season is uneven skin tone. Activated Vitamin C, White Birch and Peony work together on this serum to rapidly diminish dark spots and erase discolorations caused by sun exposure. $50 www.Kiehls.com
Biore Baking Soda Scrub: Get rid of accumulated dirt and oils with this powder based cleansing scrub that turns into a fizzy foam once is mixed with water. It is gentle enough to be used daily, and works wonders to detoxify tired skin, and remove dead cells. $9 www.Biore.com
Niucoco Renewing Hair Serum: 100% vegan, sulfate, paraben, phthalate and gluten free serum infused with cold-pressed extra virgin coconut oil, guava extract, rice protein, sunflower seed oil, and vitamin E to restore frizzy and dried strands, and make hair manageable and soft again. $50 www.Niucoco.com
Rocco Donna Professional Anti-Aging Scalp Treatment: An apple a day keeps the frizz away! That’s the motto with this daily serum made of Apple Stem cells, Lavender Oil, and Super Fruit and plant extracts that will make your hair stronger, bring back the fullness, stimulate growth, and remove buildup. $39 www.RoccoDonnaProfessional.com
Clarins Booster Energy: Potent concentrated serum enriched with ginseng extract that will bring you back to life after a fatiguing trip or late night out. A few drops in the morning on your moisturizer or foundation are enough to minimize under eye bags, reinvigorate skin, and make you feel brand new. $40 www.ClarinsUSA.com 31
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Photography by DUSTY ST. AMAND Grooming by CAMILLE THOMPSON for Exclusive Artists Management using Cover FX
UP CLOSE & PERSONAL Text & Design by DIO ANTHONY
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WHAT WAS IT ABOUT RICHIE THAT CONNECTED YOU TO THE CHARACTER IN ORDER TO PLAY HIM SO GENUINELY? I went into to playing Richie without any expectation of how a gay man should act like, ya know? I felt a sense of responsibility to the character and the material,and to his journey. I was forensically thinking of ways to approach the character and ways into the character. Watching ‘Weekend’ felt comfortable. It was inspiring, and just gave me an idea of what his voice would be and in relation to his world. That helped a lot in uniting me with the character. LOOKING WENT ON FOR TWO SEASONS AND A MOVIE. IN A PERFECT WORLD, SUPPORTERS OF THE SHOW WOULD HAVE LIKED IT TO GO MUCH LONGER THAN THAT. THAT BEING SAID, GIVEN THE SHOW’S SHORT LIFE, WHAT DO YOU THINK THE LEGACY IS? I think in a lot of ways, it deepened and furthered the conversation about representation in general as well as LGBT representation on screen and what we expect versus what is real. So there’s that, on an industry level, and how that will affect future storytelling. I’m excited to see what comes next, or what spaces looking has opened up. I hope many.
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On a more personal level, I’m excited about the kids who were growing up on a show like Looking. I watched Queer As Folk growing up, and there’s other examples of content like this out there, but Looking being on HBO, at this time, when a lot of people are watching TV,and a lot of people are turning to TV to see their stories. It was short-lived but we built a great audience. I think what we did was try to be honest, open, and naked, so to speak, and I think that will live on with the series. THE NEW YORK TIMES REFERRED TO YOU AS ARGUABLY THE BREAKOUT STAR OF THE SERIES.IT’S ALWAYS WEIRD FOR SOME TO BE COMPLIMENTED BUT HOW DID THAT MAKE YOU FEEL? I got really lucky that I got to play this character that was beautifully written, and I think that it speaks to something that’s universal, and a lot of people identified with, and connected with—and that’s all in the writing, really. If it’s not there on a story level, then all your hard work doesn’t have a place to go. It all depends on the material. I think that’s what people were responding to. Do you have any gay family members that spoke to you about your role in the series and then the movie? Yeah. It’s opened up some conversations in my family, especially with a younger cousin of mine. Who dealt with coming out as a teenager, in a small town in Texas. It’s a new conversation we’re having, and my family feels a certain pride for my work and the show. All of the sudden it wasn’t August 2016 - BELLO
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all about my poor, hopeless, young teenage cousin. I have to say it’s really deepened my relationship with several family members. THERE’S A LOT OF INTIMACY THAT GOES ON WITH RICHIE AND PATRICK IN THE SERIES, AND A LITTLE BIT OF IT IN THE MOVIE, BUT THAT’S ALWAYS DEPENDENT ON CHEMISTRY. DID YOU AND JONATHAN GROFF GO INTO THOSE SCENES, OR PREPARE IN ANY PARTICULAR WAY? HOW WAS THAT FOR YOU TWO?
little things in character. If you watch 45 years or Weekend, you see how he develops character, and how he lets the camera kind do the work. They both trust a lot, and create this environment where I felt like I owned my character. They made me feel like I was good. They’re also the guys that I can sit down with and have a beer, anytime, and that makes a big difference.
I think it’s all mental. When you’re in the room with someone, it’s like you’re going on a date. You’re working with another actor, and sometimes your chemistry is sort of in that sweet spot where you click. We didn’t think about it too much. We just tried to be in the moment as much as possible and play off each other. I’m lucky that we had a good partnership and that it was always so much fun. CAN YOU SPEAK A BIT ABOUT ANDREW HAIGH & MICHAEL LANNAN SUBTLE TOUCHES WITH THE STORYTELLING? SOMETIMES THEY GO RIGHT INTO THE TRUTH OF THE SCENE, AND AT OTHERS, IT’S VERY SUBTLE MOMENTS THAT SAY MORE THAN WORDS DO, AND THERE WAS A LOT OF THAT IN THE MOVIE. I’ve known Michael for a while. Which is how I got involved in Lorimer. It was a short film but it’s very implematic of the series in a lot ways. It follows these friends in Brooklyn, as they’re chatting about Bed Bugs and things that you chat about when you live in New York City. There’s this scene where one of the characters is telling a story of a guy he picked up the weekend prior and it cuts to this scene, post-coitus, having a moment of intimacy in these unexpected circumstances. And that’s the show, and it’s also very much Michael. Those nuances and#130 issue - BELLOmag.com
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Summer Sun Savers
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BY DEE TRILLO SENIOR TRAVEL AND LIFESTYLE EDITOR| @HAUTEFRUGALISTA| DEE@BELLOMAG.COM
am obsessed with sunscreen and with very good reason. They are the shield against the powerful and damaging sun rays and free radicals. They create a barrier between the elements and your skin preventing early skin aging, sun spots, and dryness.
However, not every SPF out there delivers what it promises, and that is why I have compiled a list of true and tested products with natural ingredients that will bring benefits to your skin beyond the much needed sun protection.
COOLA Suncare SPF 50 Face Moisturizer: Sheer and lightweight cream infused with many organic hydrating ingredients including Acai, Chia Seed, Evening Primrose and Linseed Oils, Acacia, Strawberry, Green Tea Leaf and Safflower Extracts, and Orange Fruit Water. It is water resistant to 80 minutes and comes in an energizing white tea scent. $32 www. CoolaSuncare.com #130 issue - BELLOmag.com
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Goddess Garden Organics Day Undone: This nightly sun-repair serum will combat the effects of prolonged sun exposure and reinvigorate your skin. Is packed with Mango Butter to soften dry skin, Pomegranate Oil which reduces inflammation and brings luminosity, and Rosehip Oil that regenerates damaged skin tissue. It is lightweight enough to be used under a night cream. $18 www.GoddessGarden.com
PHD Skin Care SPF 50 Sunscreen: Never Miss A Spot Again with their innovative wand that ensures an even application of sunscreen or tanning lotion. The airy mist is clear, non-greasy, and water resistant to 80 minutes, so you can safely enjoy the sun without worrying about uneven marks on any part of your body. $27 www.PHDSkinCare.com
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Exploring Old San Juan, Puerto Rico BY DEE TRILLO SENIOR TRAVEL AND LIFESTYLE EDITOR| @HAUTEFRUGALISTA| DEE@BELLOMAG.COM
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hen a place becomes the muse for musicians and literary stars, you know that there is something special at hand. Probably is a culinary dream for gastro fanatics or a natural wonder filled with a breathtaking landscape. In this case, we can firmly say, Puerto Rico has both and a lot more to offer.
Also known as “La Isla Del Encanto”, this United States territory epitomizes what an idyllic location means, and that is why we have chosen it as a Top Destination To Visit In 2016. Puerto Rico is as diverse in its cuisine, as it is in its environmental attributes. Surrounded by crystal clear waters, #130 issue - BELLOmag.com
sandy beaches, rainforests, coral reefs, waterfalls, and a vibrant historical city, it is difficult to find a better spot to visit any time of the year. Puerto Rico or Borinquen as the Taino indigenous people used to call it, which means the land of the great and valiant lord, was conquered by Spaniards lead
by Christopher Columbus in 1492. The merging of many cultures, including indigenous, African and Spaniard, found a way to seamlessly blend together and form a vastly rich society. This makes it a vibrant place where people come together to enjoy a savory meal, dance to the rhythm of drums, 46
er, if you are not a morning person like moi, then I recommend to begin your stay beachside with a light lunch at La Isla Beach Bar. Do not forget to request a Coquito cocktail, because after all: is 5 o’clock somewhere else! Once you have energy is time to go to the ocean experience what is considered the best beach in San Juan, or take a dip in the heated pool. Blue water, white-sand, full attendance service so you never have an empty glass. Dinner at Wan Chai Noodle Bar is a treat for the palate that likes fusion cuisine. It also has great views of the Stellaris Casino where you can play like a daredevil, or safely watch other’s gamble their savings away. Who knows? You might even be a lucky charm.
and learn about history. San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, is one of those enchanting cities that melts your heart as soon as you approach it.
people that visit it. It has on-site restaurants, fitness center with a spa, a hot spot lounge bar, and a fully equipped casino.
The views of the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean from the sky are spectacular, the sweet smells of fresh tropical fruits will seduce you, and the sound of the waves will take your worries away.
If you are an early bird then I suggest having breakfast at La Vista Latin Grill and enjoying a wide selection of fruits, pastries, and Latin style dishes; howev-
After saving a few bucks for partying, head over to Red Coral Lounge. Deemed, for good reason, as a hot spot in San Juan, let the live salsa music and Caribbean sounds make you want to dance all night. Just pace yourself with their signature Dragonberry Mojitos, as they are as delicious, as they are dangerous. And if you are not feeling too well in the morning, then a Hot Volcanic Stone massage at the Ocean Club Spa will get rid of the toxins, help your body relax and recuperate, and leave you ready to take on another wonderful day at La Isla.
To experience it all, there is no better hotel than San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. Nestled in the exclusive spot of Condado Beach, this resort has everything you need for a wonderful stay in a prime location.
All About That Oceanfront View The panoramic views of the beach from the suites are completely unobstructed. Perfect for enjoying a glass of champagne on the balcony or taking some insta-enviable shots of the sunset over the water. The hotel has a modern and colorful décor that aligns perfectly with the excitement that this city brings to the 47
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A Journey Through Old San Juan After spending the day at San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, I decided to venture into Old San Juan. As a huge fan of history, art and food, I knew I had to find a way to combine my love for old tales with my desire to taste everything that San Juan has to share, which is why Spoon Food Tours was the way to go. Carolina, my amazing tour guide, crafted an itinerary that took me on a gastronomic journey through time. I learned so much about the changes the city went through, the significance of many places, and how each culture impacted the population. Let’s begin at La Plaza Del Quinto Centenario. There we can find many houses and structures characteristics of the period, as well as El Totem Telurico. A pole designed by Jaime Suarez, made of granite and clay from different places of Latin America, created to celebrate the 500year anniversary of the Spanish conquest. The square is surrounded by traditional artisanal shops, local restaurants, and buildings that depict a contrast between Spanish style architecture and modern designs. #130 issue - BELLOmag.com
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Order a hot chocolate at the beloved Don Ruiz Coffee Shop in The Ballaja Barracks and have pork picadillo with olives at Princesa Gastrobar. Do not miss tasting Puerto Rican rum which is one of the best in the world. Continue your day walking by The Staircases of The Nuns, The Patio of the Nisperos (loquats), and The Fountain of The Roots, which are some of the historic landmarks worth visiting in old San Juan. The Cathedral of San Juan Bautista is another must-stop because It is the second oldest in the Americas and maintains the infrastructure and details from the sixteen century. Then, take a walk on The Castle of San Felipe del Morro which is a fortress on the water that gave the conquistadores a strategic battle point against invaders and pirates. Once you approach it, you are faced with the magnitude of the castle, the incredible views of the ocean and of the city. It is a reminder of how even during turbulent times, there is always something left to treasure and admire. No trip would be finished without experiencing the natural beauty of Puerto Rico. There are many beautiful spots, including Culebra, Arecibo and Isla 49
De Mona where you will find incredible ecosystems and marine life, and have a top notch encounter with fishes, corals, turtles, and all sort of sea animals. Some of the excursions I would recommend are to splash in a waterfall at El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S, and kayaking on the Bioluminescence Bay in Las Croabas, Fajardo. This unique and unforgettable adventure will start through the mysterious mangroves all the way through “Laguna Grande” where the stars are not only on the firmament, but on the water. There, billions of Dinoflagellates will shine through and bring light to the water. These microscopic organisms emit light when they move, so you can gently move an area and see them glow. It is truly fascinating and mesmerizing to see this phenomenon up close. I have to say that visiting Puerto Rico should be at the top of everyone’s list, especially U.S citizens who do not have to worry about visas or currency exchange to spend a vacation at a gorgeous beach destination. To Book Your Stay at San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, Please Visit:www.Marriott.com August 2016 - BELLO
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raul castillo
SUMMER 16’ IN THE CITY