BELLO mag #66 Lifestyle

BELLO JANUARY 2015

THE JUDGES OF THE TASTE PARK CITY:

Derek

THELER

Not Just for Sundance Anymore

CANCÚN:

Not Just for Spring Breakers

WONDERFUL WORLD

of

Whistler RECIPE:

EATING

on the GO

Spiced Asian Pear Bellini CALENDAR

LIFESTYLE

JEANS LEVI’S

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SPORTS

Mortal Man with a

Superhero’s Body

BY DIO ANTHONY

AT 6’5”, DEREK THELER TOWERS OVER JUST ABOUT ANYONE HE STANDS NEXT TO. THAT INCLUDES HIS BABY DADDY CO-STARS, OVER WHOM HE’S BEEN TOWERING FOR FOUR SEASONS STRAIGHT NOW AS THE HUNKY AND VERY LOVABLE DANNY WHEELER...EMPHASIS ON HUNKY.

The hit sitcom, inspired by the late ‘80s flick 3 Men and a Baby, revolves around three men trying to raise a baby in New York City, this time with the help of a zany mother, the baby daddy’s own momma, played by Melissa Peterman.

The ABC Family sitcom could not differ more from Theler’s own upbringing; growing up in a military base in Colorado Springs, Colorado, though, was not the reason why. “I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes very young, so growing up I had a lot more obstacles than other kids,” says the actor. “I was born in Alaska, but grew up in Colorado. But what was hard was that I wasn’t able to stay at a friend’s house as often as other kids would, or as much as I probably would’ve liked to at that age.

I had to give myself shots and be a bit meticulous about that sort of thing because it pertained to my health.”

Naturally, Theler grew up wanting to study medicine, which he did, later graduating from Colorado State University with a degree in Sports Medicine and Nutrition(can you tell?).

It would take a bit longer, though, for the acting bug to officially dig its teeth into the college grad. “When I got my degree, I realized the last thing I wanted to do was spend the next ten years going to grad school, and then paying student loans for the rest of my life.”

When asked what he imagines his life would be like had he gone through with pursuing what was next in line for a premed, he sighs deeply. “It would’ve been 127

very different,” he says. “There’s a big need for health professionals today. The baby-boomers of America are getting a lot older and medicine’s a big deal. But still, my life would be immeasurably contrasting, I suppose. I’d probably be living in Colorado, working at a physical therapy clinic, if not as a doctor in a hospital.” Derek Theler in a doctor’s outfit? It is both too good to be true and delightfully tempting. It is also an image hard to scrub once imagined.

As an actor, his dedication and understanding of the human body still sticks, and even more so now as an adult with an extremely demanding job. “It’s a constant responsibility when you’re a type 1 diabetic,” says the 28-year-old.

“You can’t drink too much. You have to be very strict when it comes to your eating habits and checking your blood sugar and taking your insulin.” This means sometimes having to step away from set to regulate his blood sugar. “The last thing I want is to have 100 people on set waiting on me to get my blood sugar back to the right spot. I worked this past summer in Africa, where I had the best time of my life and for a full week I was working in the water.

My insulin pump, which was my main source of regulating my blood sugar, can’t be submerged under water. So, it was a big challenge for me. But I was set, [and] luckily no one on the crew was waiting for me to be prepared for my scene.”

The project he was soaked in water for? A comedic thriller titled Shark Killer, wherein he sports a very sexy fuller beard than his ABC Family counterpart. In the film, Theler plays the titular character, Chase Walker, a shark hunter hired to slay one of the ocean’s most dangerous inhabitants, all for retrieval of the world’s largest diamond. It’s an action film, which correlates with Theler’s leading man physique. “I had some really great fight scenes, got to drive fast cars and shoot guns and fight sharks with my bare hands,” he says excitedly. “There’s a lot of CGI in the film, but there was a giant shark that was built behind a boat that I basically had to wrestle for a whole day. That was one of the highlights of the trip.”

Being the go-to shark killer may have to do for now, although Derek Theler has been nothing short of vocal when it comes to his dreams of playing a superhero. He’s an avid reader and lover of the Marvel/DC Universe, citing his favorite “superheroes” as the allAmerican Superman and the wolfy Wolverine. He’s also a big fan of recent CW phenomenons Arrow and The Flash. However, he’s holding off for his chance to replace Hugh Jackman when the Australian decides to put the final seal on his days as one of Professor X’s mutants. “He’s incredible, but I think people are going to want more once he’s done, and I’m here to step in.”

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JERSEY VINTAGE

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JEANS J BRAND T SHIRT CALVIN KLEIN

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T SHIRT CALVIN KLEIN

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JEANS LEVI’S

Photography DARREN TIESTE http://www.darrentieste.com • Styling WARREN ALFIE BAKER www.warrenalfiebaker.com Grooming SIENREE at CELESTINE AGENCY using GO247 • Video ARNO DIEM FABULOUS issue - BELLOmag.com

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SPORTS

Eating on the Go

Being Prepared

for the Unprepared

BY ALEX TARAGHI

WITH THE POPULARITY OF DIET AND EXERCISE ON THE RISE, MANY PEOPLE ARE STARTING TO BECOME MORE CONSCIOUS ABOUT THE WAY THEY “SHOULD” BE EATING. HOWEVER, MOST OF US LIVE BUSY LIFESTYLES THAT OFTEN GET IN THE WAY OF HEALTHY EATING. PEOPLE CONSTANTLY SET OUT TO IMPROVE THEIR EATING ROUTINES...BUT FOR MOST OF US, THERE ARE TWO MAJOR ROADBLOCKS THAT STAND IN THE WAY.

ROADBLOCK #1: HABITS A habit is a routine behavior that is repeated regularly and tends to occur unconsciously. Much of the time, habits stick around because people don’t have a logical plan for changing them.

ROADBLOCK #2: TOUGH TIMES During tough or “busy” times eating well becomes inconvenient, and when the going gets tough it’s easy to make poor food choices.

So what can you do to combat this?

You can plan for the unplanned in a few different ways, but each depends on your willingness and commitment to infuse positive change in your life.

Time management and overall goals are large factors for success.

One increasingly popular method involves creating a plan to prepare food at the beginning of the week. Sunday is usually the common day to do this, but really it can be any day of the 133

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week. Sundays generally tend to work because it is often the day people get their grocery shopping done in the first place.

FOOD PREPARATION 101 STEP 1: TUPPERWARE Stock up on Tupperware or other food storage containers. As silly as it sounds, they will become your best friends. If you do this right, you’ll only have to do it once.

STEP 2: MAKE A LIST Be conscious about what you want to eat throughout the week. Make a list and have it somewhere easy and accessible. Now, go shop!

STEP 3: PREP YOUR FOOD Although this can take some time, it will save you hours in the long run.

Remember, you get out what you put in.

Prepping food is actually fun. If you live with a loved one, try to be in the kitchen together. This allows time for actual communication. If you’re by yourself, listen to your favorite tunes or explore new music you haven’t had the time to listen to.

Prepare one food group at a time. You can start with vegetables and move on to your protein. Divide your meats into portions and wrap them separately with plastic. If meats need to be marinated, then do this now and let them bathe throughout the day. If rice or other grains are on the menu, cook them in the beginning so that it will finish cooking by the time you are wrapping up with other foods.

Need something faster? Greek yogurt is low in carbs and packed with protein, and not to mention many probiotic benefits. You can make yogurt more exciting with a pinch of shredded almonds, ground chia seeds, or even slices of your favorite fruit. Plus, if you’re in a time crunch, this is something you can do the night before. By storing your yogurt and toppings in a Tupperware container, you can grab your breakfast on the way out the door and eat it on the way to work.

Lunch: Sandwiches are a great way to get multiple nutrients packed into one meal. A typical turkey sandwich can include whole wheat bread, avocado, tomato, cucumber, spinach, and a cheese of your choice. Plus, if you seed the tomatoes and go light on any condiments, this can be done the night before and avoid chances of becoming soggy. Pair the sandwich with your favorite nuts or fruit and you have a quick, easy lunch on the go.

Dinner: Stir-fry done right can take no time at all. If vegetables are chopped and stored properly, it’s as easy as oiling a pan and cooking them up. Simple ideas of vegetables that work well together include chopped onion, asparagus, and

mushrooms. While these are being cooked, you can start to cook your protein, and reheating already prepared rice can happen during this time as well.

A vegetable, rice, and protein bowl can be made in less than 10 minutes. Add some store-bought sauce or spice and you’re all set! By changing the variety of vegetables and protein, you have a whole new meal.

Snacks: The variety of healthy snacks you can eat on the go are endless. Nuts, fruits, and chopped vegetables are all high in nutrients to help fuel you between meals. There is no excuse for not having healthy snacks on hand since they are so simple to prepare.

Eating healthy can seem difficult, but it certainly doesn’t have to be. A bit of planning can go a long way. Try preparing your food at the beginning of the week. This might seem challenging in the beginning, but it definitely gets easier. Come up with a plan and make logical choices. Happy eating!

Alex Taraghi has a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Nutrition from Oregon State University and is certified by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Currently, he is a personal trainer at Beverly Hills Equinox.

This all might sound fine and dandy, but you still might be stumped on what type of foods you are going to prepare for the week. Here is a sample day to give you some ideas.

Breakfast: Eggs are high in protein, B vitamins, and are quick and easy to prepare.

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PHOTOGRAPHY ALEKSANDAR TOMOVIC

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LIFESTYLE

PARK CITY:

Not Just for Sundance (and Skiing) Anymore BELLO’S HIKO MITSUZUKA TRAVELS TO UTAH AND FINDS OUT WHY PARK CITY IS MORE THAN JUST A PREMIER DESTINATION FOR HOLLYWOOD’S INDIE STARLETS AND POWER PLAYERS. Park City is “a cleavage of Hollywood,” according to Jim Mikula, the manager of The Sky Lodge, a boutique hotel that opened in 2008 and caters to visitors from all around the globe as well as the filmmakers and studio execs who make their annual trek to Utah for the Sundance Film Festival (January 22 through February 1).

enthusiasts, rodeo cowboys, boutique shoppers, and outdoor adventurers.

There’s a pretentious-free type of wealth that powers this cozy mountainside hamlet, and the proof is in its vibrant streets.

Take a walk down Main Street, and you’ll see for yourself…

oils and vinegars (go for the peach balsamic). Dolly’s Bookstore is a great place to browse some locally written literature and brush shoulders with like-minded bibliophiles. Take a peek inside the Egyptian Theatre and have a chat with Randy Barton, the venue’s director, to learn about its resident ghost, Edwina.

However, Park City is proving that it’s more than just a scenic getaway for A-listers and award contenders. The modestly populated destination seems to pride itself on its camaraderiefilled small-town sensibility and cosmopolitan tastes. No major chains are found within its limits (good luck finding a Starbucks). Instead, visitors are treated to a dynamic mix of fine art

Connected to The Sky Lodge is Table One, a progressive eatery that serves cutting-edge recipes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Your taste buds will thank you for the crispy pork belly fermented in chili paste and soaked in sweet corn kimchee. Then, as you begin your stroll up Main Street, pop into the Mountain Town Olive Oil Company to sample some of the dozens of flavored

Culture seekers will appreciate The Last Friday Gallery Stroll, an opportunity to explore PC’s art scene with a glass of wine (or two), especially at the Kimber Arts Center, a former auto repair shop that has been transformed to house various exhibits and shows. History buffs will get a kick out of the Park City Museum, an interactive exploratorium filled with fascinating facts and stories about the

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website before you go, as their menu changes with each season.

SKY LODGE

continued legacy of the settlers. And if you’re looking for some dance-worthy tunes (or missing the nightlife of a big city), check out Downstairs, a bar coowned by That ‘70s Show alum Danny Masterson, who’s known to DJ some nights throughout the year.

After all of that strolling and window shopping – our favorite kind of cardio – a massage or facial treatment at The Spa at Stein Eriksen Lodge is just what you’ll need to align those chakras, soothe your psyche, or release every ounce of stress in your body. A simple 10-minute shuttle ride from Main Street, this luxury, five-star resort is situated in Deer Valley and is the perfect haven to relax and recharge. After all, who would say no to lounging by a fireplace with a cup of peppermint tea in nothing but a terrycloth robe?

treat for whiskey lovers. Their menu of crafted cocktails may be intimidating at first, but go with our favorite: the Cochise, a concoction of Silver Oat Whiskey, grapefruit juice, lime juice, bitters, and simple syrup mixed with ginger root. Just be sure to check their

Sunday brunch is always a grand affair at the J&G Grill at the St. Regis in Deer Valley. Each property of this upscale hotel chain boasts a different Bloody Mary recipe; more than 20 versions currently exist. J&G’s recipe happens to be taken from the 1930s – one they call “The 7452” – and is named after the altitude of this particular location. During our mouthwatering meal of short rib hash, mini frittatas and eggs Benedict, manager Yunus Yenginer gave us a brief history on the marvelous mixology behind these visually appealing drinks.

Accompanying him was the hotel’s resident mixologist, Marcel, who was more than happy to demonstrate a champagne bottle sabering for our group. With one quick swoop of the blade, the bottle’s neck flew off, and a geyser of bubbly erupted to applause in the dining room.

ST. REGIS

Foodies will have no shortage of options to satiate their appetites. Park City is bursting with a diverse array of cuisines to enjoy. There’s the Indo-Persian breakfast menu at Good Karma, for example; during the warmer months, be sure to grab a table on the outdoor back patio and order a Veggie Bake.

For lunch, try a burger at the Park City Mountain Resort before getting in line to ride the Alpine Coaster, one of the resort’s thrilling attractions, and checking out the Tony Hawk-designed skate park on the way back to the hotel. Then, for dinner, there’s High West Distillery and Saloon, a definite a 137

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RELAX & RECHARGE

Stein Eriksen Lodge

The Sky Lodge heskylodge.com The Spa at Stein Eriksen Lodge steinlodge.com/spa-in-park-city The St. Regis Deer Valley stregisdeervalley.com

FEAST & FILL UP Table One theskylodge.com/table-one High West Distillery & Saloon highwest.com Good Karma goodkarmarestaurants.com J&G Grill jggrilldeercrest.com Mountain Town Olive Oil Co. mountaintownoliveoil.com

PLAY & PARTICIPATE Park City Mountain Resort parkcitymountain.com White Pine Touring whitepinetouring.com Last Friday Gallery Stroll parkcitygalleryassociation.com Egyptian Theatre egyptiantheatrecompany.org Park City Museum parkcityhistory.org Despite the growing Hollywood associations with Park City (expect those ties to Tinseltown to be bolstered by a future movie studio currently under construction), there are plenty of alternatives to experience and enjoy in Utah’s popular destination. Those who aren’t into the film festival or skiing scene may want to take advantage of city’s “shoulder seasons,” which are primarily spring and fall, the periods in between the busiest times of the year.

Park City: Before the Winter

Hint: the ski resorts are closed AprilMay. You’re welcome.

Consider this our first Must-Go Getaway of 2015.

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LIFESTYLE

CANCÚN Not Just for Spring Breakers

BY BRAD LIBERTI

FOR MANY OF US, IMAGES OF CANCÚN, THOUGH CERTAINLY AWASH IN SWAYING PALM TREES AND TURQUOISE BLUE SEAS, HAVE ALSO COME TO INCLUDE A HEALTHY DOSE OF HORNED UP FRAT BOYS AND GIRLS GONE WILD. IN FACT, THANKS TO THE MTV CROWD, THIS ONCE SLEEPY OCEAN HAMLET IS NOW A PREMIER GLOBAL PARTY DESTINATION WITH A REPUTATION THAT CERTAINLY PRECEDES IT. BUT TO WRITE OFF THE CROWN JEWEL OF MEXICO’S RIVIERA AS MERELY A HOTSPOT FOR HEDONISM IS TO DEPRIVE YOURSELF OF AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE THAT CAN BE AS SERENE OR AS FAMILY FRIENDLY AS YOU WANT IT TO BE.

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Since 1976, Club Med Cancún Yucatán has brought affordable, all-inclusive luxury to Mexico’s Caribbean Coast, offering up unforgettable vacation packages with an international flair that you just won’t find on any Carnival Cruise. But just in case you still need a little more convincing, here are eight reasons why Club Med Cancún Yucatán proves that this place isn’t just for Spring Breakers!

8. They’ve Got You Covered – In less time than it takes to fly to the East Coast, you can get from LAX to Cancún International Airport, which is only a brief, 15-minute ride to the resort (transfers are offered with your Club Med package).

7. All-Inclusive Luxury Without Being Trapped on a Ship – We all have those relatives who insist on bragging about their Bahamas Cruise every year. But instead of listening with envy, you find yourself grateful for dodging that bullet as tales of dolphin watching and shuffleboard are quickly replaced by those of cabin fever and boredominduced binge-eating. At Club Med Cancún - with a property that is 22 acres and includes private swimming and windsurfing beaches, a coral reef,

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Oceanfront suite at AguaMarina

mangrove lagoon, and a large pool let’s just say you can spend as much time with Aunt Connie and Uncle Frank, or as little, as you choose. For great family accommodations, check out the brand new oceanfront Aquamarina building (built as part of the resort’s recent multi-million dollar renovation project) or, for even more secluded luxury, try Jade, Club Med’s 5-Trident luxury space, which offers private, ultra-luxe oceanside suites and full service concierge.

6. You Won’t Hear Uncle Frank Complaining – There’s so much to do at the resort – both day and night - that

you might find yourself absentmindedly missing meals, but for those culinary devotees for whom the idea of a cruise ship with its 24-hour buffet is heaven, Club Med’s got you covered. With several top-tier restaurants on the property, including La Hacienda (the main hall, serving full breakfast daily and we’re talking waffles, French toast, omelets… none of that continental crap - as well as lunch and dinner buffets comprised of both classic American faves and indigenous delights), La Cazuelas (the oceanfront restaurant that offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and features both buffet and waiter service), and La Estancia (the seaside

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down, the party really starts, and you don’t even have to leave the resort.

Nightly shows and dancing in the Maya Lounge until all hours offer the perfect opportunity for adults to play and meet new friends.

Las Cazuelas

2. Right Near Da Beach, Boy! - There are a few rivals who can boast of comparable luxury to Club Med’s, but none can hold a candle to the spectacular properties that this French company owns around the globe. And here in Cancún, the resort is no exception; located on its own private lagoon and coral reef, it is easily the most spectacular piece of land on the peninsula. snack-bar-by-day-turned-heartyArgentinian-steakhouse by night), there’s always something delicious to discover. And parents of little ones need not fear; La Hacienda is equipped with a baby corner and even offers Baby Welcome Kits (comprised of a baby bed, baby bath, changing table, stroller, bottle warmer and more) for purchase.

5. Eat Guilt Free – So what if there are enough tasty temptations around to make you think twice about throwing on that skimpy bathing suit? Club Med offers such a wide variety of sports activities from water skiing and snorkeling, sea kayaking and wind surfing, scuba-diving and tennis, to their one-of-a-kind circus arts program (all of which are available to everyone from terrified novices to serious adrenaline junkies, with instructors matched accordingly) that you’ll easily burn off those excess calories. Still not satisfied? Stop by the fully equipped gym, or take a water aerobics class in the main pool. And don’t forget the incredible daily excursions offered by the resort, which include hiking one of Quintana Roo’s limestone sinkholes, or cenotes, and exploring the magnificent preserved Mayan village at Tulum... picnic-style lunch included.

years old can enjoy time away from their parents as they participate in a multitude of fun activities, mix with other kids from different countries around the globe, and become circus pros, learning to tumble and trapeze from world-renowned experts. Club Med Passworld offers programs for tweens and teens ages 11 to 17, while parents of little ones (ages 2 and 3) can take advantage of the newly opened Petit Mini Club, the Pyjamas Club (offering evening childcare from 7:00 p.m. to midnight for ages 4 months to 7, at a cost of around $25 per child), or even 24-hour babysitting (ages 4 months and up at a cost of around $12 per hour), allowing for that much needed date night, or a morning at the Comfort Zone Spa (offering up massage and beauty treatment packages).

3. It’s Still Cancún, Right? - You betcha!

Which means that once the sun goes

1. Nobody Does It Like Club Med Sure, beaches, excursions, food, and convenience all count for something, but what truly matters are the lifelong memories that you make on a trip like this. Perhaps you’ve heard about it, but it’s time to experience for yourself the incomparable Club Med Spirit, evidenced in the warm smiles and helpful demeanors of its staff (including its famous G.O.s, hand-picked from around the globe). Because whether you’re meeting new friends, practicing your French, flipping on the trapeze, or simply devouring a great book while you soak up the sun, there really is no place like Club Med. Take it from a Club Med kid who recently returned for his first adult trip…this place is special. After all, memorable vacations come and go (if you’re lucky), but few remain every bit as magical as your inner child remembers.

Jade Infinity Pool

4. Bring the Kids - Nobody does fun for the whole family like Club Med. With its complimentary Mini Club Med program, children ages 4 to 10 141

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LIFESTYLE

The Wonderful World Of

Whistler

BY HIKO MITSUZUKA

JUST TWO HOURS NORTH OF VANCOUVER, BC THERE EXISTS A WINTER WONDERLAND THAT HAS TO BE EXPERIENCED TO BE BELIEVED. IT IS CONSISTENTLY RANKED THE NUMBER ONE MOUNTAIN RESORT IN NORTH AMERICA (SKI MAGAZINE JUST CALLED IT THE #1 OVERALL RESORT OF 2015) AND IT PROUDLY HOSTED THE ALPINE, NORDIC AND SLIDING EVENTS FOR THE 2010 OLYMPIC AND PARALYMPIC WINTER GAMES. Sure, Whistler may be a premier destination full of natural beauty, a place for epic skiing and snowboarding, the world’s best mountain bike park, championship golf, and a limitless array of activities like ziplining, hiking, rock climbing, and bobsleighing...but there’s so much more. Annual festivals abound (Food! Music! The arts!), and its cozy little village offers a cosmolpolitan selection of accommodations, shops, restaurants, bars and spas.

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing all that Whistler had to offer. And after one magical weekend, I quickly learned why it’s considered such an original and unforgettable place...

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LAKESIDE LOUNGING Nita Lake Lodge is nestled on the shores of the titular glacier-fed lake and represents “a fresh take on classic Whistler luxury.” I arrive early on a Friday morning, ready to take in the crisp air...and get my hands on a hot cup of coffee.

Hotel manager Theresa Ginter, our hospitable hostess for the weekend, is a German transplant, one of the many explorers, entrepreneurs, artists and athletes from around the globe that make up most of the Whistler community. When we sit down for drinks later that night at Cure, the

hotel’s ultra-cozy lobby lounge, I learn about Cornucopia, an annual music festival that brings in many alt-rock fans from Vancouver and neighboring burgs. We discuss some bands, swap some favorites, and I even whip out my iPhone to Shazam a few tunes I hear.

Our half-Japanese mixologist, Jan, and I brush up on our kanji, and he treats me with extra blue cheese-stuffed olives for my Caesar, Canada’s version of the Bloody Mary. Meanwhile, Adam Giles Levy, a local singer, covers some hits from The Lumineers and Jason Mraz by the massive fireplace. The night is off to an amazing start.

The next morning Theresa and her team hook me up with a Kundalini massage

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tests out their ski legs and stretches their arms for the ground-level rifle positioning. FYI: it’s harder than it looks...or maybe I just need to do more circuit training at the gym.

at the Spa at Nita Lake Lodge (with a side of hot stones and a facial). The rest of my day is full of helpful, little lessons: The amenities at the hotel include a line of organic soaps made by Ila (you won’t find any animal products here), the Lodge comes with two communal hot tubs (one overlooking the lake, the other located in the spa facing the mountains), and then there’s the 4 o’clock S’mores Hour that takes place on the lakeside terrace (hot cocoa included).

With the opening of the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola in 2008, Whistler Blackcomb revolutionized the mountain experience for visitors year-round. So it makes sense for us to give it whirl and take in the spectacular sights from above.

Spanning the distance between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, this engineering marvel offers a breathtaking, 11-minute journey that provides unprecedented access to the resort’s renowned alpine terrain – both in the winter and summer seasons.

And helping me brave the frigid conditions during this wintry excursion were my stylish (and well-padded) winter coats, from Desigual, the

Barcelona-based clothing brand known for its patchwork designs and wild prints Our picks: the long-sleeved Javi overcoat and the hooded, heavier-duty multifunctional Dokan jacket. Tip: the Javi comes with a removable lining that turns it into lighter outwear - perfect for the spring.

EAT FOR DAYS Winter’s a great time to add some cushioning around the waist, so naturally we welcomed every meal and every morsel that was offered to us.

There wasn’t a menu or selection of samples we didn’t turn down.

If there’s one breakfast you should try in Whistler, get a taste of the kale pancakes at Aura, Nita Lake Lodge’s signature restaurant. (Four fluffy cakes topped with strawberry puree and almonds.) Lunch at Christine’s at the

EVERY DAY’S A SNOW DAY We pay a visit to the site where biathlon Olympians once competed during the 2010 games and participate in some of activities during which we get to handle German-manufactured .22 caliber firearms and shoot five rounds into targets. Ghislain, our dashing crosscountry ski instructor, does a great job making sure everyone in our group 143

January 2015 - BELLO

top of Blackcomb Mountain consisted of a savory charcuterie and artisan cheese platter and a seafood bouillabaisse in a saffron tomato broth that will have you gleefully slurping up every drop.

Afterwards, make sure to grab a hot chocolate from the adjacent cafeteria and take in the jawdropping view on the scenic terrace.

inspired oasis of calm.” Surrounded by towering spruce and cedar trees, this quiet slice of heaven is where Whistler’s residents and visitors stretch, loosen, and relax every muscle in their body after an active day on the mountains.

I emphasize “quiet” because there’s a no-talking policy while walking on the grounds.

As for dinner, Alta Bistro is an exquisite eatery near Whistler Village. Coowner Eric Griffith discusses with us Vancouver’s gold medal victory in hockey during the 2010 Winter Olympics: “It was almost the highlight of my life,” he tells us in between some duck liver parfait with elk tartare and apple ciderbraised pork cheeks (it’s as foodgasmic as it sounds). According to Griffith, Whistler hasn’t changed much since the global games. The same positive attitude, pride, and camaraderie still flows throughout its streets.

Scandinave is all about the hydrotherapy circuit: Start with a thermal bath or the eucalyptus steam room, plunge into the ice water pool, then lounge in one of the Solariums or by the outdoor fire pit...and repeat several times. Your circulatory system will thank you.

Oh, and for dessert? There’s the caramelized brioche with hazelnut ice cream, blood orange curd, and vanillainfused celery. Ask yourself: where else can you find a recipe like that?

Then, offering gourmet coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and gluten-free options that actually taste good is Fix Cafe (also located at Nita Lake Lodge). It’s a local favorite. Most menu items are made inhouse, even the ice cream. A perfect pit stop to stock up on sustenance before you hit the slopes. Or, if you’re looking to blog about your trip or send emails to your jealous friends back home -ahem -- there’s free wi-fi too.

Back at the Lodge, I collect my belongings and decide to take a stroll around the lake -- and on it. (The water is frozen solid.) I take my final shots with my smartphone, upload a few more to Instagram from the middle of the lake, and silently wish I had more time to take in the gorgeous scenery -and air.

I later situate myself on a club chair in the lobby lounge with a book while a teen comedy from my college years plays on a TV above me on mute. I find

myself sinking deeper into the chair, as if in a trance, while on the small screen Tom Green attempts to feed a boa constrictor a mouse. A hotel staff member walks by and stops, asking if I need anything.

“Just one more day,” I respond.

@TheFirstEcho

YOUR WHISTLER TRAVEL CHEAT SHEET Hello BC: hellobc.com/Whistler Nita Lake Lodge: nitalakelodge.com Alta Bistro: altabistro.com Christine’s at Blackcomb: whistlerblackcomb.com Scandinave Spa: scandinave.com/ en/whistler Desigual: desigual.com/en_US

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LIFESTYLE “Whether you are celebrating New Year’s resolutions this month or simply having a Sunday brunch, this Spiced Asian Pear Bellini is perfect for any occasion! What makes this bellini recipe so fun is that the pear puree is frozen into ice cubes, so not only does the drink stay cold longer, the flavor of the spiced Asian pear slowly reveals itself more as you drink it! Enjoy!” –Chef Ronnie Woo

Spiced Asian Pear Bellini • • • •

1 tablespoon of unsalted butter 2-3 Asian pears ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon • ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves • 2 tablespoons of brown sugar • Champagne

Instructions:

Chef Ronnie Woo is the executive chef and owner of The Delicious Cook, a private chef company that specializes in intimate four-star dinner parties. He has a growing list of celebrity clients and is a regular contributor to Good Day LA. For more recipes and information on Chef Ronnie, visit his website at www.TheDeliciousCook.com or www.

RonnieWoo.com.

145

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat.

Add the rest of the ingredients and cook until pears are tender, stirring often, about 10-12 minutes.

2. Transfer to a blender and puree on high speed for 90 seconds until smooth (if you have a hard time blending, add a little filtered water, one tablespoon at a time, until it begins to move). Transfer the puree to an ice cube tray, cover, and freeze.

3. When ready to serve, place 1-2 spiced Asian pear cubes in a flute and top off with champagne. Serve and enjoy!

January 2015 - BELLO

LIFESTYLE

CALENDAR The BPM Festival

La Tamborrada Festival

January 9-18; Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

January 18-19; San Sebastián, Spain

The BPM Festival pulsates electronic dance music spun by a lineup of the world’s top artists and DJs, all while set against the sparkling Caribbean.

The loudest festival in Spain, this irreverent tribute to a patron saint features 24 hours of costumed drum corps marching their raucous way through the coastal city of San Sebastián.

Sundance Film Festival

Sam Smith

January 22 – February 1; Salt Lake City, Utah

January 29-30; The Forum: Inglewood, CA

North America’s most famous film festival is a compelling combination of show, snow, and showbiz, equally popular with intellectuals and the pop-culture paparazzi.

FABULOUS issue - BELLOmag.com

146

HOROSCOPES

BY VANESSA VIOLA

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

December 21 – January 18

January 19 – February 17

February 18 – March 19

Happy Birthday!! Really focus on freeing your mind from stress and find some quiet time for yourself. Pay attention to your dreams.

The new moon towards the end of the month is a time for rejuvenation and new beginnings. Be open to new ideas.

This New Year is all about you using your power to manifest a dream come true. Write it down in your journal and watch it unfold in 2015.

ARIES

TAURUS April 19 – May 19

GEMINI

May 20 – June 21

The new year brings about many changes for you. It’s a great time to get involved in something new.

Take some time for yourself and recharge. This New Year is full of surprises. Expect the unexpected.

It’s up to you to choose how you want your life to look; you have a chance to make it more beautiful than you’ve ever imagined. It’s really important that you live in moderation for the first part of 2015.

CANCER

LEO

VIRGO

March 20 – April 18

June 22 – July 21

July 22 – August 21

August 22 - September 21

The first full moon of the New Year happens in your sign. Find a special place to turn inward and listen to your inner voice. Now, more than ever, you are coming from an authentic place.

Many blessings are coming your way in the New Year. Take a moment to really get present to the opportunity knocking on your door.

Clear out any old ideas or projects that no longer serve you. You need to make room for the array of fresh ideas coming through for you the first few weeks of the new year.

LIBRA

September 23- October 22

SCORPIO

October 23- November 22

SAGITTARIUS

This New Year, get down with honoring yourself through some kind of spiritual practice, be it yoga or meditation.

Enjoy the freshness of a new year. Clean out your closet and do things that make you happy.

Find balance in the new year. Happiness will follow.

147

November 23 – December 20

January 2015 - BELLO

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