Aventura Magazine July 2024

FEATURES

52 GET OUT OF TOWN GUIDE

Ready to skip town this summer?

Pack up the car and head to one of these four road-trip-worthy destinations.

60 DISTILLERIES WORTH THE DRIVE

Travel

By Jules Aron

68 TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH

Slicing through arctic ice aboard Le Commandant Charcot

By Kristen Desmond LeFevre and Mary Murray

By Daphne Nikolopoulos

CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS

12 FROM THE EDITOR

AVENTURIST

15 ROOM WITH A VIEW

The Arlo Wynwood debuts a stylish suite designed by artist Reina Noriega

16 THE MIX

Catch the vibes of Miami’s K-Pop scene, sample rare mangoes at Fairchild Botanic Garden’s Mango Festival, geek out at Florida Supercon, and relax at Miami’s first ASMR head spa

20 ON EXHIBIT

Calida Rawles’ new exhibit at the PAMM showcases historic Overtown

22 AGENDA

Mark your calendars for these five can’tmiss events and performances

24 GUIDE

Four ways to arrive in style, plus 10 local hotels get a new set of keys

26 PROFILE

Meet homegrown Olympian windsurfer

Dominique Stater

STYLE

29 IT LIST

Must-haves for popping in to the hottest Hamptons pop-ups

30 THE LOOK

Get nauti with refreshed seafaring styles

32 THE EDIT

Patriotic pieces sure to add sparkle to any celebration

34 JEWELRY BOX

Seeing red with ruby-set stunners

36 BEAUTY

Summer scents that transport

38 TRENDING

Freezer-friendly beauty tools

JOURNEYS

41 WANDERLUST

Four ways to swim (safely) with sharks

44 QUICK TRIPS

Soak up Southern charm at Montage Palmetto Bluff

46 FLORIDIANA

A golf and tennis paradise awaits at the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club

48 HIGH ROAD

Lightning strikes in Maserati’s first luxury electric convertible

50 HIGH SEAS

Day-trip in style aboard the Wellcraft Flagship 435 Performance Cruiser

SIP & SAVOR

83 OPENINGS

Gather ‘round the massive live-fire grill and wood-burning oven at Amalfi Llama

84 LOCAL BITES

Henrique Sá Pessoa’s gastronomic prowess shines at Sereia, five reasons to love Casadonna, plus Sweet Liberty Drinks and Supply’s take on a classic cocktail

88 MINDFUL MIXOLOGIST

Cheers to 70 years of the piña colada

HOME

91 INTERIORS

A designer transforms a Pinecrest home into a chic, family-friendly sanctuary

92 BY DESIGN

Mix and match patterns like a pro

94 ELEMENTS

Alfresco accents to make your patio pop

SOCIAL STUDIES

97 SEEN ON THE SCENE

Pics from Miami’s most fabulous events

LAST WORD

104 ON THE RECORD WITH...

Jet-setter-in-chief Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon dishes on life as a full-time traveler

Editorial Director

Daphne Nikolopoulos

Editor in Chief

Kristen Desmond LeFevre

Creative Director

Olga M. Gustine

Executive Editor Mary Murray

Fashion Editor

Katherine Lande

Automotive Editor Howard Walker

Travel Editor Paul Rubio

Libations Editor Jules Aron

Web Editor Abigail Duffy

DESIGN

Art Directors

Airielle Farley, Ashley Meyer, Jenny Fernandez-Prieto

Digital Imaging Specialist

Leonor Alvarez-Maza

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Jane E. Enos, Allison Wolfe Reckson, Gaylene Salomons

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rikki Altman-Yee, Alena Capra, Caitlin Granfield, Nicole Neal, Jesse Scott, Liza Grant Smith

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Gyorgy Papp

SUBSCRIPTIONS 800-308-7346

Publisher Terry Duffy

ADVERTISING

National Sales Director

Deidre Wade, dwade@palmbeachmedia.com

Account Managers

Sandy Silverman, ssilverman@aventuramagazine.com

Sima Kohen, skohen@aventuramagazine.com

Libby Lekach Roffe, lroffe@aventuramagazine.com

Digital Account Manager

Ryan Hollihan, rhollihan@aventuramagazine.com

Advertising Services Coordinator

Elizabeth Hackney

Marketing Manager

Rebecca Desir

PRODUCTION

Production Director

Selene M. Ceballo

Production Manager

Lourdes Linares

Digital Pre-Press Specialist

George Davis

Senior Designer

Jeffrey Rey

Advertising Design Coordinator

Anaely J. Perez Vargas

Production Coordinator

Ileana Caban

Digital Marketing Manager

Tyler Sansone

OPERATIONS

Chief Operating Officer

Todd Schmidt

Accounting Specialist

Mary Beth Cook

Accounts Receivable Specialist

Ana Coronel

Distribution Manager

Judy Heflin

Logistics Manager

Omar Morales

Circulation Manager

Marjorie Leiva

Circulation Assistants

Cathy Hart, Britney Stinson

Circulation Promotions Manager

David Supple

IT Manager

Omar Greene

SUBSCRIPTIONS

800-308-7346

In Memoriam Ronald J. Woods (1935-2013)

HOUR MEDIA, LLC

CEO Stefan Wanczyk

President John Balardo

POWER TRIPS

Sometimes you just have the urge to pack up your suitcase and get away from it all. That’s why the July issue of Aventura is filled with myriad ways to put your day-to-day on pause in favor of a much-needed summer vacay or staycay.

EDITOR’S PICKS

GLAMPING GIRL

There’s something about getting back to basics in the great outdoors that soothes my soul… but having to haul a bunch of gear in the heat makes me think twice about camping. Now, thanks to Timberline Glamping at Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound, I can commune with nature while getting a good night’s sleep in a proper bed that’s housed inside an air-conditioned luxe tent (no tent poles required). Page 52.

PERFECT PACK

Summer travel season calls for an equipment upgrade, as my tried-and-true bags have seen better days. I’m loving the color-blocked style of these hard-sided rollaboards from the new collab between fashion house La Ligne and luggage company Away. Page 29.

If you’re itching to get out of Miami but can’t bear to face the hassles of airport security lines and procedures, gas up the car and head out on a road trip. Whether you go north, south, or west, we’ve got four favorite Floridian destinations sure to please in our “Get Out of Town Guide” on page 52. Maybe you prefer to travel by tipple? Florida’s craft distillery scene has exploded in recent years, yielding a wealth of award-winning Sunshine State-centric spirits. Check out “Distilleries Worth the Drive” on page 60 for some standout locations where you can tour and taste to your heart’s content. If you’re looking to beat the heat with a jaunt to colder climes, don’t miss “To the Ends of the Earth” to read about Daphne Nikolopoulos’ adventure to the frozen wilderness of northeast Greenland aboard the powerful icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot. No matter where you choose to go for your getaway, “Getting There in Style” on page 24 features four of the chicest ways to arrive at your destination stress-free.

Out of town travels are lovely, but there’s also something to be said for staying put in the Magic City during the lazy days of summer—especially now that the whirlwind of events has quieted down and the tourists have (mostly) headed back north. Sure, it’s hot. But if you play your cards right, every day can feel like a vacation. Consider booking a room at one of the 10 Magic City hotels and resorts that have been awarded a newly minted Michelin key (page 26), stay in style in an artist-designed suite at the Arlo Wynwood (page 15), or explore one of the can’t-miss July events highlighted in this month’s Agenda (page 22).

Whether you’re staying in SoFlo, hitting the road, or flying the friendly skies this month, here’s to summer travels, wherever they may take you!

Kristen Desmond LeFevre klefevre@aventuramagazine.com

ELIZABETH PALACE

AVENTURIST

THE INSIDE TRACK TO ALL THINGS NEW AND NOW IN MIAMI-DADE

Getting Artsy at ARLO

X

The first hotel in Wynwood is expectedly layered in hipness. There’s the rooftop pool with panoramic vistas of the concrete wonderland below, an entire side of floor-to-ceiling windowdraped rooms, and exterior walls of soaring murals from some of the most rad artists around like Hoxxoh and MILAGROS Collective.

But it’s what’s happening inside Arlo Wynwood that’s creating buzz—right down to the guest room interiors. In-the-know guests can book a room designed by artist Reyna Noriega Turn the page to read more about this suite that’s been transformed into the author and visual artist’s own creative utopia.

ROOM WITH A VIEW

Getting

On the suite—which is available for a limited time and dubbed An Oasis of Peace and Joy—Noriega tells Aventura, “It was great to combine my artistic skills and branded partnerships into one cohesive space. Collaborations like my custom wine bottles with Clif Family Winery and my customized Goody hair supplies compeiment the decor of the room.”

Noriega says she was able to make the room “pop” by using several of the patterns seen frequently in her popular work, including a wallpaperlike treatment. “Seeing how everything could live together in one space was truly amazing,” she says.

As for some of her favorite touches, she says, “I’m particularly proud of the mirror decals, which display positive affirmations when guests look at their reflections. The wall outside the bathroom with the stripes

also brings me joy, and my paintings Movement and The Blues fit perfectly into the decor. The mirror decals are so fun to look at and interact with, and the wall makes the art pop from every angle of the room.”

Beyond Noriega’s suite, Arlo Wynwood’s artsy happenings and artist collaborations are popping up year-round, including L.A.-based artist ThankYouX unveiling a rooftop pool-adjacent mural vividly capturing what he calls “Miami’s constant flow.”

In the property’s Living Room Gallery, check out the newly placed installation titled “Thick as Thieves” from Miami-based contemporary artist Dan Alva. The series depicts modern reinterpretations of classic paintings with a bootleg vibe, and is on display through July. (arlohotels.com) —J.S.

K-POP

LASER Focused

K-Pop—with its catchy hooks and polished choreography by musical groups like BTS and Blackpink—is a vibe and the 305 is into it. Case in point? The Phillip And Patricia Frost Museum of Science recently added a K-Pop laser spectacular to its laser evening lineup (which also boasts shows featuring the music of Fleetwood Mac, Bad Bunny, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Taylor Swift, and more). To make your K-Pop laser show experience even more multi-sensory, the museum is offering show-goers a special menu of drinks like the K-Popping Boba Mango Passion Fruit Sparkler. (frostscience.org/exhibition/ planetarium/laser-evenings) —J.S.

K-POPPIN’ PARTIES

WHEN YOU’RE READY TO MOVE AND GROOVE TO THE HOTTEST SOUNDS THIS SIDE OF SEOUL, CHECK OUT THESE LOCAL K-POP PARTIES:

MIAMI’S K-POP NIGHT HOSTS MONTHLY RAVES AS WELL AS POP-UP EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE CITY. RECENT GATHERINGS AT BRICKELL’S COCKTAIL JOINT, MAMA TRIED, HAVE OFFERED THEMED MENUS FEATURING BOBA-LADEN BEVERAGES, TUNES SPUN BY DJ MARU, AND MANGA- AND MANHWA-INSPIRED ART BY OTAKU RESINA. (@MIAMIKPOPNIGHT)

K-POP CLUB NIGHT IS KNOWN FOR THROWING EPIC K-POP EVENTS ACROSS THE U.S. NOW, THE ORGANIZATION IS HOSTING MIAMI PARTIES AT MAD LIVE IN WYNWOOD, FUELED BY BEATS COURTESY OF DJ YUKA K. (KPOPCLUBNIGHT. COM) —J.S.

EVILDAM

Escape together and discover a new world of adventure amidst South Florida’s favorite luxury beachfront resort.

Soak up the sun in one of two pools or while enjoying thrilling water sports, including jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding—or stay on land and put your soccer, basketball, volleyball, and tennis skills to the test. Even the youngest guests can enjoy their own fun in Planet Kids and Toddlerville with storytelling time, plus arts and crafts. Our on-property concierge will curate an unforgettable itinerary that turns your vacation into a real VIP experience—all you need to do is arrive.

AROUND TOWN

GEEK OUT

IN SEASON

It Takes You to MANGO

One of Florida’s most beloved fruits takes center stage at the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s Mango Festival from July 13-14.

The mango-thon features tastings, cooking demonstrations, lectures, and more. Cool off with mango smoothies and mango cocktails, or snag a seedling if you’re keen to grow your own. There are more than 500 types of mangoes worldwide, and 400 of them will be on display, including this trio of rare varieties. (fairchildgarden.org) —J.S.

Calling all cosplayers: Florida Supercon —the Magic City’s biggest celebration of comic books, animation, cartoons, anime, video games, cosplay, fantasy, sci-fi, pop culture (and all things geek) —returns to the Miami Beach Convention Center July 12-14. Get your favorite costume ready and deck yourself out to attend Q&A panels and celebrity appearances featuring the likes of pop duo AJ and Aly Michalka, Ashley Johnson from The Last of Us video game series, Vico Ortiz and Samba Schutte from HBO’s Our Flag Means Death , and Doctor Who star David Tennant. (floridasupercon.com) —J.S.

Kastoree:

1

From Indonesia, it’s known as the blue mango for its darker skin hues.

Lemon Meringue:

This petite variety was brought to Miami in 1995 by a member of the Miami Rare Fruit Council.

3

HEAD CASE

The first successful mango to grow in South Florida was introduced by Dr. David Fairchild in 1889.

Love a good ASMR video on social media? (ICYMI: ASMR stands for autonomous sensory meridian response —that tingling, static-like, or goosebump sensation you feel when you watch or hear certain stimuli.)

When you’re ready to stop scrolling and experience the ASMR buzz in real life, head to Bamboo Beauty & Wellness at the DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Hotel Biscayne Bay. Their signature, fi rst-in-Miami ASMR Head Spa treatment features a halo-like showerhead that streams water across your head to massage, relax, and fortify both hair and scalp. The experience lasts approximately an hour and starts at $90, with Phyto Paris and Moroccanoil add-on options available to address thinning, damaged, dry, or graying hair. (bamboospamiami.com) —J.S.

Mulgoba:

YOUR VISION IS OUR FOCUS

Dr. Alan Mendelsohn M.D. F.A.C.S.

Preeminent Laser Cataract Surgeon Bascom Palmer Eye Institute Fellowship Trained Glaucoma Specialist including Glaucoma Lasers & iStents

Considered “Doctor’s Doctor” in South Florida

Dr. Nathan Klein O.D.

Renowned Contact Lens Specialist, including Scleral Lenses

Comprehensive Adult & Pediatric Care

Expert in Diagnosis & Dry Eye Treatment

Specialist in Myopia Management

ON EXHIBIT

MAKING WAVES

The PAMM’s latest offering showcases the people and history of Overtown

BY JESSE SCOTT

Watery wonders await at “Away with the Tides,” a new exhibition by artist Calida Rawles now on display at the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). Showcasing Black residents of Overtown, Rawles paints her subjects as they swim or float in water—in part, a nod to Miami’s water-rich environment. Aventura caught up with the artist to learn more about her first solo museum show in the United States. (pamm.org)

WHAT SETS THIS PAMM SHOWCASE APART FROM YOUR PAST EXHIBITS?

This is a first, in many ways. It’s my first solo museum presentation. The fact that it is at such a notable institution, the PAMM, is a dream come true. It’s my first time creating a site-specific show. I wanted to convey the spirit and legacy of a community within Miami. And I chose Overtown. Lastly, it’s my first time painting people in natural waters. I went beyond the pool. We are also creating my first catalog and it’s the first time working with video. I’m very excited.

WHAT DOES THIS FIRST SOLO PRESENTATION MEAN FOR YOU AS AN ARTIST?

It’s an honor to have a museum share your work with the world. It gives greater visibility and validation to thoughts an artist finds worth exploring.

WHY OVERTOWN? HOW DID THE COMMUNITY INSPIRE YOU?

Learning about the rich history of Overtown was inspiring. At one time, it was like the Harlem of the South: a thriving community. The highway being constructed in the center of it destroyed the community physically and emotionally—as one can imagine displacement will do to anyone. But I found the spirit and love of Overtown was not lost from the community. They are truly resilient.

HOW DO YOU HOPE FOLKS WALK AWAY FROM THE EXHIBITION FEELING AND WHY?

It is my hope that people walk away feeling inspired and see Overtown in a new light. It is a community of people that want jobs, autonomy, and respect—and deserve it all, like all Americans. «

Clockwise from top left: Artist Calida Rawles; Like Other Gods With Ancient Rage (2023); The Transparent Boundaries (2023); Rawles’ works on display at the PAMM.

AVENTURIST YOUR

Key Biscayne’s Annual Fourth of July Parade

July 4

Marching bands, decorated golf carts, and patriotic floats will travel along Crandon Boulevard from Harbor Drive to West Enid Drive to celebrate Independence Day. Enjoy a picnic on the Village Green afterward and stay for the fireworks show starting at 9 p.m. (kb4.org)

Teatro Avante’s Thirty-Eighth Annual International Hispanic Theater Festival (IHTF)

July 11 to August 4

Witness the work of Hispanic playwrights and take in leading productions from Latin America, the U.S., and Europe. IHFT’s programming will appear on stages across Miami-Dade, including the Adrienne Arsht Center’s Carnival Studio Theater, the Westchester Cultural Arts Center, the Koubek Center Theatre, and the Key Biscayne Community Center. (teatroavante.org)

4

5 3 1

Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias

July 12-14

If you’re in need of a good belly laugh, grab tickets to see one of the funniest stand-up comedians on the circuit at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood. Pro tip: Iglesias’ local shows will be filmed as part of his upcoming Netflix comedy special. (myhrl.com) (3) LAUGH

(4) LISTEN

The Great American Soulbook

July 13

Spend a soulful Saturday at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center as the musicians of The Great American Soulbook take you on a trip down memory lane via songs from the ‘60s through the ‘90s. Groove to Motown, R&B, and dance music with hits made famous by The Temptations, Whitney Houston, Boyz II Men, The Supremes, Luther Vandross, The Isley Brothers, Aretha Franklin, James Brown, and more. (aventuracenter.org)

Miami Salsa Congress July 17-22

Get ready for five days of pool parties, Latin dance workshops, concerts, and nightly dance celebrations at the InterContinental Miami. Participants can learn how to dance like the pros at salsa and bachata workshops, vibe to live nightly musical performances, or hang poolside as a DJ plays Latin beats (miamisalsacongress.com) —Caitlin Granfield

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GETTING THERE IN STYLE

BY KRISTEN DESMOND LEFEVRE

BY HELICOPTER

With its new luxury ondemand charter service to and from Miami’s Watson Island Seaplane Base, HeliFlite gives you direct access to the heart of Miami in only minutes via an executive cabin-class Sikorsky S-76 twin-engine helicopter flown by a pair of pilots. The chopper accommodates private parties of up to six passengers, and trips can originate anywhere within a 250-mile radius of Miami. Whether it’s Fort Lauderdale, Naples, Orlando, the Keys, or Palm Beach, HeliFlite flies out of (and into) its Watson Island base, situated just 2 miles from downtown Miami and 4 miles from South Beach. In-

town, HeliFlite provides VIP transportation to key Magic City events like the Miami F1, Art Basel, the Miami Boat Show, and any number of professional sporting events from hockey to basketball. Talk about beating the Heat in style. (heliflite.com)

BY SEAPLANE

Dreaming of an island escape (or really anywhere where there’s water)? As a guest on Tropic Ocean Airways’ seaplanes, the world is your runway. Founded and operated by a U.S. Navy fighter pilot, Tropic Ocean is the largest commercial seaplane airline in the world, boasting a fleet of 14 late-model Cessna Grand Caravan EXs that are operated by an FAA-certified two-pilot crew.

Book a seat on a scheduled flight out of Fort Lauderdale to Bimini, Nassau, Great Harbour Cay, or Cat Cay. Or book a private charter from Miami to anywhere you can think of (popular destinations include the Keys, Palm Beach, and the Hamptons). If you’re looking to link up with a private yacht in the Bahamas, the airline has launched an exclusive yacht transfer service, offering seamless door-to-deck transportation.

No matter your destination, you need only to arrive 30 minutes in advance of wheels-up time, and hang in the General Aviation hangar’s private lounge. Bring your furry companion along with you if you’re so inclined; pets are always welcome on board, as is 50-pounds of luggage allowance per guest.

(flytropic.com)

TROPIC OCEAN AIRWAYS

BY CHAUFFEURED CAR

Blacklane, a favorite chauffeur service among well-heeled travelers worldwide, wants to take you to the beach—without the usual hassles. Blacklane says data collected in a recent survey reveals that 49 percent of travelers plan to go to the beach up to five times this summer, and that 34 percent of travelers have experienced a recent flight or train delay (citing these kinds of unexpected setbacks as the biggest turn-off when planning vacations).

That’s why Blacklane is offering routes that whisk Miamians seeking to beach it in Palm Beach or Fort Lauderdale with an easier and more luxurious way to hit the sand.

“Traveling to the beach is meant to be a relaxing time for people to unwind and not have to worry about things like paying for parking, finding a spot, and walking far with your belongings,” says Chloe Liang, Head of Blacklane’s Miami market. “[We’re]

entirely focused on providing an outstanding experience during the ride so that our guests arrive relaxed at their vacation destination for those valuable vacation days.”

Prefer to stay in the 305 but don’t want to drive? Blacklane offers services from airport transfers to city-to-city routes connecting metropolitan areas, as well as chauffeur-by-the-hour services. Their vehicle fleet boasts everything from SUVs to business-class and first-class cars, all equipped with features tailored to your summer travel needs like temperature control, spacious seating, and complimentary bottled water. (blacklane.com)

BY

Want to be part of the jet-set without actually owning a jet? With two options to choose from, a Sentient Jet Card gives you the flexibility of choosing the aircraft that best fits your private jet travel needs. The SJ25 Jet Card includes 25 hours of flight time with flexible access to light aircraft, while the SJ25+ Jet Card offers the use of a range of mid-, super-mid-, and large-cabin jets for flyers who want to travel farther. Both card options offer travelers the ability to purchase private flights in hourly increments. Bonus? You pay only for hours you end up flying and (unlike other jet card services) the hours never expire. A key benefit to the luxe service is Sentient Jet’s digital booking tools, including a mobile app and a first-of-its-kind, fully automated text-to-book feature, which allows cardholders to “book a flight in seconds,” according to Sentient Jet Chief Technology Officer Durga Nagalla. (sentient.com)

HOT HOTELS

KEY POINTS

You’re probably familiar with the Michelin Guide’s star rating system recognizing the world’s best restaurants. But earlier this year, the esteemed guide rolled out a similar ranking system for hotels with a new distinction: the Michelin key. Properties can receive a one- to three-key rating, highlighting the very best experiences and stays across the globe—and Miami is in the spotlight for 10 of its hotels receiving key distinctions in the program’s inaugural year. Six Magic City hotels snagged one-key nods (denoting a “very special stay”) and four received a two-key award (denoting an “exceptional stay”). No hotels in Florida received a coveted three-key designation (but there’s always next year). (guide.michelin.com/us/en/hotels) —K.D.L.

Mayfair House Hotel & Garden Coconut Grove mayfairhousemiami.com

Faena Hotel Miami Beach Miami Beach faena.com/miami-beach

Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club Surfside fourseasons.com/surfside

The Setai Miami Beach Miami Beach thesetaihotel.com

ONE-KEY HOTELS

Mandarin Oriental Miami Brickell

mandarinoriental.com/en/ miami/brickell-key

Mr. C Miami-Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove mrccoconutgrove.com

1 Hotel South Beach

South Beach 1hotels.com/south-beach

Esmé Miami Beach

South Beach esmehotel.com

Hotel Greystone Miami Beach greystonehotel.com

The Betsy Hotel South Beach thebetsyhotel.com

JET

TWO-KEY HOTELS

PROFILE

CHASING THE WIND

AS THE SUMMER OLYMPIC GAMES OPEN IN PARIS THIS MONTH, OUR HOMETOWN HOPES ARE ON WINDSURFING COMPETITOR AND MIAMI NATIVE DOMINIQUE STATER

BY NICOLE NEAL

There are people who live their lives on the move. And then there’s Dominique Stater.

As the daughter of a United States diplomat, Stater has seen moves among six countries and moves among sports—from gymnastics to equestrian events to snow skiing to windsurfing.

But on July 28, when she zips over Mediterranean waters, her moves will make history as the first U. S. women’s iQFOiL Olympian.

reached on traditional boards.

As a 12-year-old attending school in Buenos Aires (she’s also lived in Nicaragua, Peru, Chile, and Colombia), Stater watched kite- and windsurfers gliding across the expansive Rio de la Plata. By the time she turned 14, she was competing internationally in windsurfing, and traveling to Miami to train. In 2018, she represented the U.S. at the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires.

the United States for a spot in Olympic women’s windsurfing. And in January, Stater won the U.S. Olympic team trials, held at the Miami Yacht Club where she’d trained as a young competitor.

The experience itself was grueling, Stater recalls: 27 races in eight days, “competing in every condition,” she says. “But to be able to do that in a place I knew, with old friends cheering me on the water, was so great.”

“I love the adrenaline and the speed,” says Stater, speaking from Cadiz, Spain, where she’s training for the Paris games. “To be able to race with the top girls from each country is super cool.”

It’s the Olympic debut for both 23-year-old Stater and this new evolution of windsurfing. Thanks to its winglike hydrofoil, the iQFOiL board lifts off the water, making it appear as if the rider is flying. The foil’s average speed— around 25 miles per hour—is four times faster than average speeds

Stater took a break from competition to attend the University of Miami. But like many students, she “needed a job.” In 2021, she began teaching sailing and windsurfing to kids at the Biscayne Bay Yacht Club.

It was there that she tried foiling for the first time. “I was hooked,” she says of riding the more compact and agile board. “It rekindled my love of windsurfing.”

Around the same time, the International Olympic Committee announced that the foil would replace traditional boards at the Paris games, so Stater put college on hold to train. The gambit paid off. Her silver medal in the 2023 Pan American Games qualified

Since clinching her spot at the Paris games, Stater has spent time traveling between Cadiz (where her coach, two-time U.S. Olympian Pedro Pascual, lives), and Marseille, France (where the 2024 Olympic sailing events will be contested). She admits that she loves the international lifestyle her sport allows, but says life on the move will always include stops in her hometown of Miami.

“You have so many amazing opportunities in Miami,” she says. “You can be anywhere and be near a beach.” After a day spent training in the chilly North Atlantic, she wistfully adds, “And you don’t even need to wear a wetsuit!” «

Miami, meet your doctors!

Dr. Naz Nekoi (she/her) Dr. Kritika Joshi (she/her)

“I love kickboxing, HIIT, cooking, and traveling”

“I treat patients of all ages”

“See me for preventive care, skin concerns, hair loss”

“I treat patients ages 14 and up”

“I specialize in preventive care, diabetes management, and well-woman care”

More about me:

I enjoy building deep connections with my patients, tailoring care to meet their unique needs and enhance their quality of life. I’m a strong advocate for healthy lifestyles and holistic healing. Moreover, I find great comfort in managing complex medical problems and providing comprehensive, compassionate care.

I speak English and Farsi.

Visit our Aventura location, next to Sweetgreen in the Esplanade Plaza.

“I enjoy a plant-based diet, yoga, tennis, and discovering new music”

More about me:

I approach the art of medicine with a personalized and holistic, yet evidencebased approach. Every patient is a unique individual that deserves to get the most thorough and comprehensive care. I aim to provide you with the knowledge to make the most informed decisions for your optimal health.

I speak English and Hindi.

Learn more about a primary care membership with One Medical.

CURATED

The Travel Edition

IT LIST BE IN THE KNOW ON SUMMER’S HOTTEST POP-UPS IN THE HAMPTONS AND WHAT TO TAKE TO GET YOU THERE

BY KATHERINE LANDE

1. Never lose your things (or your mind) with the ultimate travel tote: I Am a Plastic Bag In-Flight Tote ($1,550), Anya Hindmarch, us.anyahindmarch.com | 2. Fly in striped style: La Ligne x Away capsule collection (prices vary), La Ligne x Away, lalignenyc.com, awaytravel.com | 3. Take your game (and your opponent’s money) on the road: Métier leather travel backgammon set ($875), Abask, abask.com | 4. Stay protected and hydrated under the summer sun: Body Sun Ritual SPF 30 hydrating mineral sunscreen ($48), Saint Jane, saintjanebeauty. com | 5. Check out these summer must-haves from three sartorial Hamptons hot spots: Coco Beach Collection’s woven raffia tote bag ($7,000), Chanel, East Hampton, chanel.com; Gucci Lido Summer Collection’s Gucci Bamboo 1947 small top-handle bag ($4,500), Gucci, East Hampton, gucci.com; Exclusive Beach Collection’s terry cotton bathrobe ($1,775), Dolce & Gabbana, Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, dolcegabbana.com

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STYLE CRUISE CONTROL THE LOOK

NAUTICAL GOES NOUVEAU WITH A REFRESH ON THIS SIGNATURE CLASSIC

LOUIS VUITTON SUMMER 2024 CAPSULE COLLECTION

Menswear-inspired silhouettes add an updated edge to the French seaside look.

BY KATHERINE LANDE

CASTING LIGHT

ROPE ME IN Shrimp earrings in lapis and 18-karat yellow gold ($4,350), Seaman Schepps, seamanschepps.com

Phare handbag ($6,450), Louis Vuitton, Miami, us.louisvuitton.com

PONY UP Horse-bit print swimsuit ($720), Gucci, Miami, gucci.com

SEA BEADS

Embroidered Dolce box handbag ($6,345), Dolce & Gabbana, Miami, dolcegabbana.com

STYLE NOTES X

RED, WHITE & BLUE:

Stick to the standard color palette; add pop with metallic accents.

AHOY MATE:

Invest in a sailor stripe— it will be in style forever.

MODERN DECK:

Play with shape and size proportions to modernize your look.

STEP LIGHTLY Valentino Garavani Rockstud slingback flats ($1,090), Valentino, Miami valentino.com

SPARKLER EFFECT

CHANGING COURSE

Reversible shopper in Pequinstriped and light blue FF fabric ($1,950), Fendi, Miami, fendi.com

Métiers d’Art 2024 bracelet ($1,975), Chanel, Miami, chanel.com

BELT IT OUT

C’est Dior belt (price upon request), Dior, Miami, dior.com

COLOR BLOCK

DAY WHITE Cinch small handbag ($1,295), Jimmy Choo, Miami, jimmychoo.com

Miami

Belle Vivier slingback pumps ($950), Roger Vivier, Miami, rogervivier.com

THE EDIT

LONE STAR

Wish Star boots ($960), Golden Goose, goldengoose.com

Is there anything that says American chic more than the perfect cowboy boots? Whether you wear this pair with a boho maxi dress or with classic denim, the platinum star inlay and firework-like embroidery will lend your July an extra pop of patriotism. —Kristen Desmond LeFevre, editor in chief

Stars and Stripes

SUMMER SALUTE

PUT A CHIC SPIN ON PATRIOTIC ATTIRE WITH EDITOR-APPROVED CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

La Medusa striped canvas tote bag ($1,650), Versace, neimanmarcus.com

Why not add a bit of Italian flair to this year’s Independence Day celebration—or to a day at the beach—with this pragmatic (and pretty) navy and white canvas tote? —Jane E. Enos, contributing editor

Babe bandeau one-piece ($178), T-shirt bikini top ($118), and sidetie bikini bottom ($94), Robin Piccone, robinpiccone.com

NIGHT SKY

Étoile des Vents earring ($1,650 each), Dior, dior.com

Christian Dior had a fascination with stars, and so do I. Wear a rose gold and diamond celestial talisman on your lobe for daily good fortune. —Gaylene Salomons, contributing editor

COLOR-BLOCKED

Narin high-rise button-front pants ($375), Alice + Olivia, aliceandolivia.com

Old Glory never looked so stylish. Alice + Olivia’s Narin pants display the colors of the flag in a bold color-blocked pattern that’s bound to turn heads at July Fourth parties. Trimmed with a navy waistband and gold buttons, the pants read both nautical and patriotic—the perfect complement to summer. —Daphne Nikolopoulos, editorial director

I’m excited to debut Robin Piccone’s Babe bikini in this iconic color combo on the Fourth and to add other pieces from the collection to my summer wardrobe, such as the bandeau one-piece.

—Allison Wolfe Reckson, contributing editor

SEEING RED

Melissa Mary Jane flats ($268), Reformation, thereformation.com

Whether it be denim cutoffs and a tee or a breezy summer wedding guest ensemble, these scarlet Nappa leather slip-ons offer a darling pop of color to any outfit. —Abigail Duffy, web editor

LINES OF DUTY

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JEWELRY BOX

Radiant Rubies

MAKE A RED-HOT STATEMENT WHEN YOU DON JULY’S FIERY BIRTHSTONE

BY MARY MURRAY

1. SHINE SO BRIGHT Yvel earrings with rubies and diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, price upon request. Yvel, Palm Beach (yvel.com)

2. SEEING DOUBLE Kwiat necklace with rubies and diamonds set in platinum, price upon request. (kwiat.com)

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3. LOVING HIM WAS RED Lugano Diamonds ring with an oval ruby and diamonds set in 18-karat white gold with red ceramic, price upon request. Lugano Diamonds, Palm Beach (luganodiamonds.com)

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4. CRIMSON AND CLOVER Provident Jewelry twostone ring with a Burmese ruby and diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, $49,500. Provident Jewelry locations (providentjewelry.com)

5. RED, WHITE, AND YOU Aletto Brothers invisibly set ruby dome earrings with rubies and diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, price upon request. Greenleaf & Crosby, Palm Beach (greenleafcrosby.com)

6. LOVE ALL AROUND Davidor L’Arc Deco bangle with Davidor arch-cut diamonds, arch-cut rubies, and diamonds set in platinum, $98,500. Davidor, Bal Harbour (davidor.com)

7. STAR CROSSED Jean Schlumberger by Tiffany & Co. earrings with rubies set in 18-karat gold, $3,850. Select Tiffany & Co. locations (tiffany.com)

8. FANTASTIC FRINGE Graff necklace with rubies and diamonds set in platinum, price upon request. Graff, Bal Harbour (graff.com)

Graff, Bal Harbour (graff.com)

9. CONNECT THE DOTS Picchiotti Xpandable bracelet with Thai oval rubies and diamonds set in 18-karat gold and white gold, $99,000. Neiman Marcus, Coral Gables (neimanmarcus.com)

Scents of Adventure

This summer, Europe is calling. Evoke Mediterranean splendor with these aromatic selections: L’Objet Kérylos Eau de Parfum, bursting with yuzu, mandarin, and grapefruit, and grounded by earthy white musk, sandalwood, and wild herbs ($160 for 1.7 fl. oz., Neiman Marcus, Bal Harbour, Coral Gables); Grace de Monaco Danse Étoilée Eau de Parfum ($220 for 3.38 fl. oz.) and Promenade Sur Le Rocher Parfum, a fragrant celebration of Grace Kelly and the French Riviera that transforms from white florals to sensual amber, woods, musk, and vanilla ($560 for 1 fl. oz., gdmonaco.com); Aerin Mediterranean Honeysuckle Tiare Eau de Parfum, evoking the breeze of a beachside escape with cédrat, tiare flower, grapefruit, honeysuckle, gardenia, and citrus ($150 for 1.7 fl. oz., aerin. com); Parfums de Marly Paris Althaïr Eau de Parfum, an ode to the Bourbon vanilla introduced under Louis XV’s reign ($365 for 4.23 fl. oz., us.parfums-de-marly. com); and Lancôme Idôle Eau de Parfum, a head-turning infusion of bergamot, pear, pink peppercorn, rose, jasmine, vanilla, patchouli, and cedarwood ($118 for 1.7 fl. oz., Ulta Beauty locations). —Abigail Duffy

TRENDING

FROZEN ASSETS

MAKE ROOM IN YOUR FREEZER FOR THESE CHILLED BEAUTY PRODUCTS THAT DELIVER GLOWING RESULTS

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

GLOBE-TROTTER

POP MUSIC

Love and Pebble

For a cryotherapy-inspired boost to your at-home facial routine, try the Aceology Ice Globe Facial Massager ($64). This tool can be placed in a bowl of ice or in the fridge for 10 minutes and then used for either a lifting massage (to stimulate blood circulation, oxygenate the skin, and boost elasticity) or lymphatic facial massage (to relieve tension, reduce future breakouts, and release toxins). (aceology.com)

ICY RECEPTION

Enriched with hydrating hyaluronic acid, the Skin Proud Frozen Over: Gel-to-Ice Hydrator ($21) can be applied straight from the freezer to battle tired and puff y skin. (iamproud.com)

’s Beauty Pops ($43) are super-

foods—papaya, banana, turmeric, and aloe vera— face masks that you freeze. Mix the powder with water and freeze the concoction in the tray mold for three to four hours. Rub the resultant pop all over your face like a traditional mask and let it exfoliate, tighten, and nourish your skin. (loveandpebble.com)

TASTY TREAT

NICE GOING

Is your skin in need of some TLC? Formulated with glycerin, niacinamide, green tea extract, and ashwagandha, the Nice Ice Toner Pods ($68 for pack of 12) from Sofie Pavitt Face aim to reduce inflammation, increase circulation, and revive the skin. Use the frozen pods on breakouts, after laser treatments and receiving injectables, before doing your makeup, or following a night on the town. (sofiepavitt face.com)

LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT NUTRITIONAL SNACK TO COMPLEMENT YOUR FROZEN BEAUTY ENDEAVORS?

TRY THE VIRAL SHAVED FRUIT TREND. CUBE OR CHOP YOUR FAVORITE FRUIT (SOME IDEAL OPTIONS ARE STRAWBERRIES, MANGOES, AND WATERMELON) AND PUT IT IN THE FREEZER OVERNIGHT. THEN USE EITHER A MICROPLANE ZESTER OR A REGULAR FINE GRATER TO SHAVE THE FRUIT. ENJOY IT ON ITS OWN OR WITH TOPPINGS LIKE SWEETENED CONDENSED MILK OR TAJÍN SEASONING.

JOURNEYS

YOUR PASSPORT TO THE MOST FASCINATING CORNERS OF THE GLOBE

SWIMMING WITH SHARKS

DIVE, OBSERVE, AND IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE ELUSIVE WORLD OF THE OCEAN’S MOST CAPTIVATING RESIDENTS

BY PAUL RUBIO AND ALEXANDRA OWENS

While many people are content to limit their interaction with sharks to HD screens and aquariums, a niche market has grown for extreme marine safaris where humans no longer call the shots. Submerged beneath the waves, all anthropogenic borders disappear, as you quickly learn that this is a shark’s world and we’re just swimming in it. Here,

we share four experiential encounters with these misunderstood rulers of the ocean.

Scalloped Hammerheads

The scalloped hammerhead shark’s distinctive antenna-like head (or cephalofoil) and elusive nature are hot topics among shark biologists. While much about this shy

and enigmatic species remains a mystery, we do know that they travel in schools by day, engaging in complex social interactions, and separate by night to hunt stingrays, squid, fish, and other fruits of the sea.

A prime spot to swim with scalloped hammerheads is the aptly named Hammerhead Triangle, an imaginary geometric destination

A school of scalloped hammerheads passes by at Darwin and Wolf in the Galápagos.

formed by Costa Rica’s Cocos Island, Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands, and Colombia’s Malpelo Island. These dive sites are populated by migratory schools of scalloped hammerheads that range from 100 to 300 individuals. In the Galápagos (which are home to the highest concentration of sharks in the world), divers are practically guaranteed sightings of the resident hammers around the magical islands of Darwin and Wolf. Here, the sharks gather in large schools, slowly drifting past divers at a wary distance. To sneak a closer look, you can wait at a cleaning station,

where the sharks stop by—mouths gaping— for tiny fish to freshen up their pearly whites.

Divers can expect to spot other species here, too, depending on the season, including whale, tiger, silky, Galápagos, and various reef sharks. Visiting this remote destination, which is nearly a full day by boat away from the rest of the Galápagos, requires booking a liveaboard. One great choice is Galápagos Sky (galapagossky.com), a 16-passenger luxury yacht that works closely with the World Wildlife Fund and other partners to protect these critically endangered sharks

from illegal fishing and finning by industrialscale boats, ensuring that the Galápagos Marine Reserve will remain a treasured sanctuary for years to come.

Great White Sharks

There’s no doubt that the 1975 thriller Jaws solidified our fear of great whites—and sharks in general. While these pelagic hunters rule the deep blue as the world’s largest predatory shark, only 351 human attacks have been documented globally since 1580. (To put that in perspective, hippos are estimated to cause nearly 3,000 deaths per year in Africa.)

Given the international protected status of great whites and country-specific laws, the required permits to cage dive with these creatures are few and far between. Previous great white hot spot Guadalupe, Mexico, is now off limits due to conservation concerns, while the South African population has largely dispersed due to predation by orcas.

That being said, there remains a Holy Grail for immersing in the world of the white shark year-round: South Australia’s Neptune Islands. Here, Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions (rodneyfox.com.au), a leader in white shark

ANDREW FOX

GALÁPAGOS

GALÁPAGOS

Clockwise from above: a glimpse above the sea at Darwin and Wolf in the Galápagos; adventures on the Galápagos Sky include shark diving and taking in stunning landscapes; the MV Rodney Fox arrives at the Neptune Islands; a great white investigates the surface cage; great whites seen from the seabed.

RODNEY FOX SHARK EXPEDITIONS

research, offers the only liveaboard boat with access to this shark-filled paradise. The outfitter is famed for its founder, who invented the shark diving cage after surviving a harrowing great white attack.

White sharks are shy animals that must be enticed to the surface with chum and tuna parts thrashed around on a line to imitate prey. But don’t be surprised if the shark bumps and bites at the cage bars—it’s simply trying to assess the situation. If you’re lucky, a great white will come close enough that you can notice its eyes. They aren’t black, but rather a mesmerizing deep blue.

Looking for more of a thrill? Intrepid scubacertified divers can choose to descend nearly 70 feet in the world’s only ocean-floor shark cage to come face-to-face with great whites on their own turf. As you see them peacefully gliding over the seabed, any fear you had will transform into a newfound respect for these powerful yet vulnerable animals.

Whale Sharks

The name can be confusing, but Earth’s largest living fish species is in fact a filter-feeding shark and not a whale at all. Reaching up to 40 feet in length and nearly 40,000 pounds, whale sharks follow migratory patterns and can be found in tropical seas across the globe. Given the whale shark’s gentle nature, slow pace, and aweinspiring presence, swimming with these endangered giants has grown into a trendy bucket-list activity.

Small outfitters pop up seasonally across much of the sharks’ preferred stomping grounds, namely off the northern tip of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Here, you can discover the largest known congregation of whale sharks feasting on plankton blooms around Isla Holbox and Isla Mujeres from mid-May to mid-September. During this sea-

son, tour company V.I.P. Holbox Experience (vipholbox.com) leads daily snorkeling trips into prime whale shark real estate.

Your first moments within breathing distance of the shark’s 5-foot-wide mouth may evoke mental imagery of Pinocchio being swallowed alive. But this is far from the case. The sharks aren’t interested in you and they don’t like it if you get too close. Respect nature and keep a minimum distance of several feet to avoid spooking the shark and facing the consequences of accidentally being struck by its incredibly thick tail.

Tiger Sharks

Named for its distinctive dark stripes, the tiger shark is the planet’s second largest predatory shark species, reaching up to 18 feet in length and 2,000 pounds.

Fuvahmulah, a pristine island in the Maldives, has emerged as a year-round tiger shark diving destination for the eco-conscious (eschewing the more controversial

and dangerous practices at Tiger Beach off Grand Bahama Island, where the tiger sharks are often fed by hand). Here, fishermen have unintentionally been attracting tiger sharks for generations by cleaning their daily catch near the shoreline. Only recently did local divers become aware of this unique ecotourism opportunity and start to stage dives by hiding tuna heads under rocks for the sharks to sniff out while tourists watch from behind a safety wall.

While it’s rare for a shark to approach a diver, professional dive instructors are watching at all times to gently redirect tigers that don’t know the meaning of personal space. If you happen to notice that a few of the sharks are exceptionally large, you aren’t wrong; many of the female tiger sharks at Fuvahmulah are pregnant and possibly rely on the easy food scraps from the island to nourish their growing young.

Pelagic Divers Fuvahmulah (pelagicdivers fuvahmulah.com), a Maldivian-owned dive center with local guides, has become a leader in this once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering small guide-to-guest ratios and helping travelers navigate life on an island that’s new to tourism. Those at the center are also investing in tiger shark conservation, hiring their own onstaff marine biologist and hosting scientists to learn more about these sharks, more than 200 of which have been identified and named.

Clockwise from above: the coastline of Holbox; swimming with a tiger shark in Fuvahmulah; snorkeling alongside a whale shark in Holbox.

QUICK TRIPS

The High Points of Lowcountry

MONTAGE PALMETTO BLUFF HUMS WITH ACTIVITIES, OFFERING A CLASSIC SOUTHERN RETREAT AMID A NATURAL WONDERLAND

BY JANE E. ENOS

almetto Bluff, a thriving 20,000-acre residential and recreational preserve, rests within the solitude of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, just west of Hilton Head Island. Within this vibrant expanse sits a halcyon escape: Montage Palmetto Bluff. If you arrive by car, expect about a 5-mile jaunt in from the main road. Though long, it’s a drive to savor, as the ecosystem is abuzz. Red-tailed hawks and bald eagles soar above, and eastern fox squirrels scurry across fecund ground. And that’s just the beginning as far as wildlife goes.

Upon first glance—and all others, for that matter—the property oozes an august Southern charm. While the resort (called the Inn at

Palmetto Bluff before Montage’s acquisition) was constructed within the last 20 years, its coastal Georgian architecture melds with its surrounds seamlessly, including the Spanish moss that dangles from the many spidery live oak trees on-site. The ambience beckons languid days and glasses of lemonade, which you can sip each afternoon upon the main building’s porch.

The best way to absorb the thousands of acres of lush maritime forest, miles of paved trails, and contiguous residential neighborhoods and villages is by bicycle. These are complimentary for guests of the resort and available for pickup just a short walk away at the Carriage House in Wilson Village.

There are two villages to explore at Palmetto Bluff: Wilson and Moreland. The first draws its name from Marion and Richard T. Wilson Jr. and the ruins of their winter estate, a four-story manse completed in 1915. Though the home caught fire in 1926, the bases of its massive pillars and steps remain and decorate what is now called the Wilson Village Green, a great place to take in views of the May River and a popular site for wed-

Clockwise from bottom: a stately lobby welcomes guests; the adult-focused pool; the Wilson Village Green with remnants; an ideal fishing spot.

dings. There are dining options and shops to explore within both Wilson and Moreland. Those venturing to the latter won’t want to miss the first and largest of the on-property tree houses, which occupies five stories and presents amazing miles-long vistas.

Montage Palmetto Bluff offers guest rooms, suites, spacious cottages, and even residences, all of which are well-appointed and make good on the brand’s commitment to impeccable hospitality. And these accommodations uphold the remainder of the property’s aesthetic, too. Design is stately yet comfortable, elegant but not extravagant.

The resort is rich in amenities, making it a marvelous spot for families or those traveling alone. Freshwater and saltwater fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and boating are options. If you prefer land activities, book a tennis or pickleball experience or enjoy a game of bocce ball. Croquet, anyone? There’s a court for that, too. If you’re looking for links, play a round at the 7,171-yard May River Golf Course (a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course) or take aim at The Palmetto Bluff Shooting Club, where National Sporting Clays Association–certified instructors share their expertise. For more leisurely living, enjoy the multiple pools on property or indulge in a day of relaxation at Spa Montage, where a full complement of services awaits.

In addition to its amenities, Montage Palmetto Bluff offers a diverse and ever-changing lineup of enrichment programs. Its Well

Living series operates from a theme that varies month to month. During my stay in April, Well Living focused on honoring Earth Day, giving guests multiple opportunities to interact with the local environment, as well as the resort’s resident naturalist, Cassie Beato. My time with Beato included a nature walk and inland waterway ecotour, where she dropped some serious knowledge about the area’s mixture of flora and fauna, including the May River’s protected oyster population. For July, Well Living activities will center on celebrating the summer in Lowcountry and incorporate Independence Day–related events, a nature-based scavenger hunt, and the flavors of the South. August’s programming will pay homage to artists who reflect the landscape and cultures of the region.

A day of activity at Palmetto Bluff generates a healthy appetite. For lunch, Fore & Aft serves Mexican-style fare along with pristine views of inland waterways. Breakfast, lunch,

and dinner are available at Octagon, which is located inside the main building and specializes in seasonally inspired cuisine accented by flavors of the Carolinas. I highly recommend a visit to The River House in Wilson Village—an upscale option offering an array of Southern-style surf and turf—followed by a nightcap downstairs at Hush, an intimate haunt with a speakeasy vibe.

And what better place to close an afternoon in Lowcountry than around a firepit with s’mores? This tradition—one of many at the resort—presents the perfect chance to relive the day’s discoveries and discuss happenings on the horizon. (montage.com) «

Clockwise from above: a sampling of accommodations; a bird’s-eye view of the resort; the intimate library; one of the on-property tree houses to explore.

MONTAGE PALMETTO BLUFF

FLORIDIANA

IN FULL SWING

THE HISTORIC PONTE VEDRA INN & CLUB OFFERS ACTIVITIES GALORE—ESPECIALLY FOR GOLF AND TENNIS LOVERS

BY JANE E. ENOS

Nestled along both sides of a quiet street in Ponte Vedra Beach, about 20 miles away from Jacksonville, the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club has been providing guests an amenitypacked seaside escape since 1928. Steeped in tradition, the property occupies approximately 300 acres, several of which are beachfront. In fact, many of the resort’s accommodations afford front-row seats to an expansive, walkable stretch of sand and the powerful yet pacifying sounds of the Atlantic breakers.

While visitors, especially those vacationing with families, could put together a memorable string of beach days at The Surf Club, the resort proper emanates country club vibes—and for good reason. After all, it intro-

duced the region’s first golf course nearly a century ago. Today, guests can hit the greens of the two 18-hole tracks available: the Ocean Course and the Lagoon Course. The par-71 Ocean Course—the older of the two links— comprises 6,718 yards and features expansive fairways, challenging bunkers and lagoon placements, and newly designed greens. Water dominates throughout the Lagoon Course. Though this par-70 course plays a bit shorter at 6,022 yards, tall pines and sprawling oaks—in addition to water hazards—make straight ball striking imperative.

If you prefer yellow balls to white, The Racquet Club awaits. To better your backhand (or any other part of your game), book a private lesson with Aleco Preovolos, director of tennis, or another member of the seasoned tennis

staff. Should you be seeking group tennis activities, you’ll find a bevy here, including myriad clinics, mixers, and instructional programs. Worth noting, the resort has plans for multiphase renovations that include adding pickleball courts, among other features. To accommodate this, starting this month, the tennis program will temporarily move off-site; transportation to and from this facility will be provided by the resort.

After a morning on the course or court, grab lunch at the Golf Club Dining Room, which overlooks the Ocean Course and serves savory soups, salads, and specialty sandwiches. For dinner, don’t miss the Seahorse Grille, which features a wine selection of more than 300 bottles and a variety of pastas, seafood, and meat selections.

Those traveling to the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club without clubs or rackets should find plenty to enjoy, too. A day of relaxation and pampering can be had at the on-site spa. For many, however, the biggest draw will be the natural beauty that abounds. The blues of the ocean and sky create a seascape that can be appreciated from miles of shoreline. (pontevedra.com) «

PONTE VEDRA INN & CLUB

Clockwise from left: an island green from the Ocean Course; one of several heated pools; a scenic stretch of white sand beach; a superior beachside room; exterior of the main building.

JOURNEYS

HIGH ROAD

OHM RUN

MASERATI DEBUTS THE WORLD’S FIRST LUXURY ELECTRIC CONVERTIBLE

BY HOWARD WALKER

Say it with me: “Folgore.” It’s Italian for lightning, but it’s also how Maserati is branding its bold initiative to go all-electric by 2028. The Trident carmaker has already revealed its electric Grecale Folgore midsize SUV and GranTurismo Folgore two-door coupe. There’s talk too of a Folgore electric version of the MC20 supercar sometime next year. Watts not to love about that?

But for me, the most exciting and electrifying of Maserati’s newest Folgore offerings is the spectacular GranCabrio Folgore convertible. When it arrives early next year, with a price tag expected to kick off at a nontrivial $220,000, it’ll be the world’s first and only luxury electric roadster.

Just look at the thing: it has more curves than a Tuscan backroad, a front end that pouts like a moody 6-year-old, and a windshield more raked than an Aspen ski slope. See it on the street—preferably Rome’s Via Condotti—and it would reduce grown men to tears.

It’s brimming with lovely detailing, too, like the aero-style, diamond-cut wheels and badging painted in a rich, dark copper. I also love the trademark Folgore paint color, which is a stunning shade called Rose Gold Liquid Metal.

That styling alone would be enough to make you want to deplete your eldest’s college fund to acquire the keys. But this is an EV GranCabrio, powered by a trio of electric motors delivering up to 818 horsepower. Stomp on the right pedal from standstill and you’ll hit 60 mph in 2.7 seconds and 120 in 9.1. For the full 818 hp, you’ll need to tap the MaxBoost button. In less stimulating driving, you’ll have to make do with a mere 751 hp.

And while you’d think that this new GranCabrio Folgore would be a scion of silence—as there’s no gas motor under the hood—you’d

POWER FILE

PRICE: $220,000 (EST.) MOTORS:

3 X 300-KW ELECTRIC POWER: 818 HP WITH MAXBOOST

TORQUE: 996 LB-FT 0-60:

2.7 SECONDS TOP SPEED: 180 MPH RANGE: 250 MILES (EST.)

LENGTH/WIDTH: 195/77 INCHES

WEIGHT: 5,300 POUNDS WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE BEING THE FIRST IS ALWAYS THE MOST FUN.

be wrong. Maserati has given the car a muted, synthesized soundtrack that replicates the rumble of one of its old-school V8s.

If there’s a potential shortcoming amid all this electric motivation, it’s range—or lack thereof. There are no official EPA figures yet, but Maserati quotes Europe’s perennially optimistic WLTP number of 280 miles. Expect closer to 250 in real-world driving. However, the car’s 800-volt architecture means it can fast charge at up to 270 kW. That’s enough to add 60 miles of range every five minutes or go from a 20

to 80 percent charge in 18 minutes.

Electric power will be the icing on the torta for this ohso-sexy Italian stallion. It’ll give Tesla Plaid–style, rockout-of-a-catapult acceleration, coupled with on-rails cornering. All enjoyed top down, with the wind in your hair.

Speaking of top down, the GranCabrio’s roof can drop in just 14 seconds and at speeds of up to 31 mph. There’s a choice of fabric top colors too, from black, blue, gray, and red to what Maserati calls “greige.”

Inside, there are seats for four in a luxurious interior typical of Maserati. While leather is available, the standard upholstery is EcoNyl, which is created from recycled nylon with laser-etched perforations to give it texture.

If you’re not quite ready for an electric GranCabrio, Maserati will gladly sell you one with its fabulous 542hp Nettuno 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, similar to the power plant in the MC20 supercar. It’s not quite as zippy off the line as the Folgore electric version, but it’ll run zero to 60 in 3.4 seconds. It’s less pricey, too, at $203,000. But for the sheer uniqueness and awesome bragging rights of driving the very first luxury EV convertible, it has to be a Folgore. It’s the future. Capisce? «

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HIGH SEAS

FORMULA FOR FUN

MICHIGAN-BASED

WELLCRAFT HAS A NEW FLAGSHIP 435 PERFORMANCE CRUISER THAT MIGHT BE THE ULTIMATE WEEKENDER

BY HOWARD WALKER

Talk about a boat with global credentials. Wellcraft’s new 435 performance cruiser was shaped by an Italian, has a hull designed by a Floridian, and is being built in France for a company based in Cadillac, Michigan. Ooh la la.

Wellcraft has been in operation for almost 70 years and is responsible for the Scarab 38KV that Don Johnson piloted in the hit ’80s series Miami Vice. This new 43-foot 435 is the builder’s biggest model ever. A year ago, Wellcraft stepped out of its 24- to 35-foot center console fish-catcher comfort zone to create its new 355 performance cruiser. Last fall, it supersized the 355 and made the resultant 435 its new flagship model.

Its oh-so-sexy lines are off the drawing board of Genoa-based Camillo Garroni, best known for his sleek

Jeanneau and Prestige motor yachts. He gave the Wellcraft a dramatic axe-like bow, soaring hull sides, and a low-slung superstructure with a military-grade, reverse-angle windshield. Even at anchor, the thing looks like it’s slicing waves at 42 knots.

And the 42 knots part is correct. With a trio of 350-hp Mercury Verado V10s hanging off the transom, Wellcraft says this new 435 can hit 42 knots flat out and cruise serenely at 28.

Part of this impressive velocity comes down to a wave-cleaving hull designed by Michael Peters, a naval architect extraordinaire who resides in Sarasota. Peters knows a thing or two about hulls: more than 40,000 boats have been built over the past 40 years using his 500-plus production designs.

For the Wellcraft 435, he came up with a hull that’s not only fast but supremely comfortable, especially in grisly seas. It’s highly maneuverable, too, capable of turning 360 degrees at speed in one boat length. Your average Lamborghini or Ferrari couldn’t pull that off.

The 435 itself is a bit of a jack of all trades, as I discovered when I stepped aboard at this year’s Palm Beach International Boat Show. Part family-fun day boat, part comfortable weekender, part long-distance

cruiser, the 435 checks an Amazon delivery center’s worth of boxes.

When starring in its day-cruiser role, the boat’s cockpit is the headliner. At anchor, fold down the oversize balconies on each side and get your splash on courtesy of twin dive platforms— which all but double the width of the cockpit for spacious entertaining. There’s also an L-shaped sofa and a wooden fold-out table. Full-height sliding glass doors open to the small ish saloon and well-equipped galley. Light cascades into the entire saloon (courtesy of a power-sliding glass sunroof and second glass panel over the galley) and, at the touch of a button, a large awning glides out of the hardtop to shade the aft deck.

For those who plan to use the 435 as a weekend cruiser, there are twin en-suite double cabins, either of which would make a perfect -

The big contribution by Wellcraft’s French owners, Groupe Beneteau, is the use of classy materials, rich woods, marble-like surfaces, and sheer

dowed, midship cabin, with its double bed off to one side and comfy sofa opposite—not to mention its huge bathroom shower. And full-al extras you can’t live without, you’re looking at closer to $1.4 million. I’m

GET OUT OF TOWN

Guide

Need a summer sojourn but want to avoid the AIRPORT? We’re sharing four best-kept-secret travel spots that are an easy drive from the 305.

North

The GreatOUTdoors

For most of human history, people have been divided into two groups: those who like to go camping and those who don’t. But a way to rough it that's geared toward the latter group has emerged: glamping. Now, would-be South Floridian glampers can enjoy the experience at Timberline Glamping inside Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound.

Timberline Glamping includes six glamping sites, each inclusive of a canvas safari tent with various combinations of queen, king, and bunk beds. They’re all fully furnished and equipped with an air-conditioning unit (that doubles as a heater during the winter) as well as a mini fridge, a Keurig coffeemaker, an essential oil diffuser, and

electrical outlets. Each site has its own hammocks, fire pit, charcoal grill, Adirondack chairs, and picnic table. Fun add-ons include s’mores kits, a nebula light projector, and outdoor games like cornhole, giant Jenga, and Connect Four. One thing you won’t find in your tents is a bathroom; instead, glampers have access to shared restrooms and showers. There is also no WiFi, but trust us, part of the beauty of this staycation is the act of disconnecting from the outside world.

Husband-and-wife team Amanda Kyle and Zachary Graeve debuted the concept late last year. The veteran Florida campers—from primitive tent campsites to the campgrounds at Walt Disney World—stayed at a Timberline Glamping camp in Hillsborough River State Park (located northwest of Tampa) and felt that the model would work well inside Jonathan Dickinson, which, at more than 10,000 acres, is the largest state park in Southeast Florida.

The Graeves estimate that about a quarter of their visitors—many of whom are local to the region—have never been camping before. They report that the tents have been popular among families and that the sites foster a strong community feel, with kids riding bikes around the area or playing on the nearby playground while their parents grill or hang in a hammock. It’s a vibe that the Graeves (who recently joined the board of directors for the Friends of Jonathan Dickinson State Park) believe is a great complement to the park’s natural setting and ecological mission.

Opened to the public in 1950, Jonathan Dickinson State Park boasts some of Southeast Florida’s most significant and diverse natural resources.

Don’t-Miss Dining: Harry and the Natives

IF YOU FIND YOURSELF IN NEED OF A MEAL NOT COOKED OVER THE CAMPFIRE, HEAD NORTH TO LOCAL FAVORITE HARRY AND THE NATIVES, WHICH HAS BEEN A HOBE SOUND STAPLE SINCE THE 1940S. STOP IN FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH, OR DINNER ANY DAY EXCEPT MONDAY FOR DOWNHOME COOKING AND A DOSE OF OLD FLORIDA CHARM. (HARRYANDTHENATIVES.COM)

Its five major communities are wet prairie, wet flatwoods, tidal swamp, floodplain swamp, and coastal sand pine scrub, the latter of which accounts for 20 percent of the park’s acreage and is so rare that it is classified as globally imperiled. It is within the scrub that visitors are most likely to spot the Florida scrub-jay, a species of bird that lives nowhere else in the world except Florida— making it the state’s only endemic bird.

Birding is just one activity to round out your glamping experience. After settling into your tent, head to the Elsa Kimbell Environmental Education and Research Center, where you can learn more about the park’s ample activities and animal inhabitants. Hiking and biking are popular pastimes (with various trails to explore) as are traversing the Loxahatchee River by canoe or kayak, freshwater and saltwater fishing, and touring the restored circa-1930s camp of Trapper Nelson, which, while fascinating, is a far cry from glamping. (jupiter.tlglamping.com, floridastateparks. org) —Mary Murray

1.5 hours away: Timberline Glamping at Jonathan Dickinson State ParK IN Hobe Sound

South

Kick back IN the keys

1.5 hours away: Baker's Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton ON Key Largo

Nestled within the serene embrace of Key Largo’s lush landscapes and crystalline waters lies the chilliest spot on the archipelago: Baker's Cay Resort.

Leave behind the tourist traps and Tshirt shops set along the main drag; Baker’s Cay’s is all barefoot luxury. Set on 15 acres of lush grounds that were once a historic pineapple plantation (owned by the property’s namesake, Captain Ben Baker) the resort hugs the Florida Bay for a toes-in-the-sand vibe mixed with modern amenities. (Pro tip: Check out the daily pineapple scavenger hunt to find nods to the resort’s past sprinkled throughout the decor and architecture.)

Among a list of activities that feels like a real-life choose-your-own-adventure story, Baker’s Cay guests can opt for full relaxation by one of two pools, on waterfront beach loungers scattered across the sand, or aboard the six swim-out floating platforms that bob just offshore. Wellness enthusiasts can catch a yoga class or a bootcamp session held in the 7,000-square-foot outdoor garden set among a shaded grove of coconut palm trees. Those looking for adventure can arrange bike rentals, sunset cruises, catamaran sails, snorkeling and diving excursions, and even a seaplane tour.

With the recent appointment of executive chef Carolann Wheeler (a veteran of high-end resorts and a

From top left: Balconies feature serene views of the Florida Bay; A pair of secluded swings beckons; Calusa offers farm-to-table fare; Guests are welcomed via an airy breezeway; A bird's-eye view showcases Baker's Cay's 15-acre property.

former personal chef to the likes of celebs Billie Eilish and Steven Tyler), guests need not leave the property to indulge in delicious Keys-friendly cuisine. Indoor-outdoor signature restaurant Calusa serves up à la carte breakfasts and dinners with a Caribbean-Creole vibe. If you get lucky on a fishing excursion, bring your catch to the kitchen to be prepared to your liking. Tequila and tacos are on the menu at beachfront Dry Rocks (including a staff of agave masters certified by the Academia Patrón to help you make the most of your sunset sips). The Tiki Bar, meanwhile, is all drinks, all the time. Poolside snacks and sips are available from an adorable retro-inspired mini food truck.

If it’s just not a holiday without your furry friend by your side, whistle for Baker’s Cay’s director of pet relations, who will furnish your

room with a welcome amenity doggie bag filled with travel bowls, custom Baker’s Cay bandanas, and do not disturb/dog in room magnets for your room door. You’ll find pet tiki huts throughout the property for your furry friend to get some respite from the Florida heat. Plus, enjoy daily opportunities for special pet-friendly water access on the Florida Bay and beachfront “Yappy Hour” celebrations. And don’t forget

Aquatic Adventure: Snorkel or scuba dive the dry rocks

WANT TO SNAG THE ULTIMATE UNDERWATER SELFIE? DON YOUR DIVE GEAR AND HEAD BY BOAT TO THE FAMOUS 4,000-POUND, NEARLY 9-FOOT-TALL BRONZE CHRIST OF THE ABYSS STATUE SUBMERGED IN THE WATERS ON THE SEAWARD SIDE OF KEY LARGO'S DRY ROCKS. THE STATUE IS MARKED BY A PENCIL BUOY FOR EASY ACCESS, BUT IT’S BEST TO VISIT WITH A VETERAN TOUR COMPANY LIKE SILENT WORLD DIVE CENTER. TRIPS TO THE RELATIVELY SHALLOW DIVE SITE OFFER OPPORTUNITIES FOR SNORKELERS AS WELL AS SCUBA-CERTIFIED. DIVERS. (SILENTWORLD.COM)

dining: pet-centric menus are also available for four-legged guests.

Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, a trip with your pup, or a solo retreat, Baker’s Cay invites you to experience the magic of the Florida Keys in a way that will leave you refreshed, rejuvenated, and inspired long after you've made your way north on the Overseas Highway. (hilton.com/ en/hotels/kylcuqq-bakers-cay-resort-key-largo) —Kristen Desmond LeFevre

At Baker's Cay, guests can swing and sip curated tequila selections at Dry Rocks, take in a sunset with beachfront s'mores, indulge pets with a "Cay-9" welcome bag, or relax in the shade of a pool waterfall.ecluded swings dot the property

Central

Travel Backin Time

4 hours away:

The Lakeside Inn in Mount Dora

Sometimes you just need to slow down and step back in time. For a taste of history (but with all the modern creature comforts), head north to Mount Dora for a stay at The Lakeside Inn. Opened in 1883, it’s the oldest continuously operated hotel in Florida—welcoming guests for well over a century.

Mount Dora sits just 40 minutes north of the themepark-laden Orlando scene, and its center star is Lake Dora—one of seven lakes in the Harris Chain of Lakes— boasting a total of 77,000 acres of bass fishing, bird watching, boating, and even manatee spotting.

When The Lakeside Inn was built in the years following the Civil War, Central Florida’s lake region was the hottest winter travel ticket around. Hotels soon popped up in every lakeside town. The first northerners to travel to The Lakeside Inn (then a 10-room hotel known as the Alexander House) were in for a serious journey: the typical trip from New York could take up to a week, with most guests booking a train south to Jacksonville, and then continuing on to Mount Dora via a lake steamer ship. When not fishing, boating, or picking local oranges, Victorian era guests relaxed on the host of rocking chairs to watch stunning sunsets over Lake Dora from the wide veranda—just as guests do today.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the

Clockwise from top: The Lakeside Inn's wide veranda offers the perfect spot for rocking chair relaxation; An extended dock leads to lake dora; real room keys foster nostalgia; The lakefront pool; Sunset views abound.

90-room resort still retains its original charm—from glass doorknobs to real brass room keys (no plastic swipe cards or beeping doors here). Four distinct and historic buildings painted in a cheery yellow are laced with white Victorian trim and dotted with flower-laden window boxes. They form a quad around a sloping lawn that leads past oaks strewn with Spanish moss to the picture-perfect lake beyond.

If you’re looking to explore the area’s natural wonders, the Inn offers a range of outings from boating and fishing on the lake to hiking through nearby nature trails. Or take it easy and stroll into town to poke through the local antique stores, soak up the vibrant art scene, and grab a bite to eat. Or stay on property to dine at four venues including the formal Beauclaire

Dining Room to the more casual lakefront Verandah to light bites and live music at Tremain’s Tavern to alfresco cocktails at the Waterside Bar. As the sun sets, tuck into a lakeside Adirondack chair to listen as birds call to one another and the water laps at the shoreline. Turn your phone ringer to silent (heck, leave it in the room for a change), and give yourself over to the timeless charm of an era gone by. (lakeside-inn.com) —K.D.L.

COLLECTORS FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY DESCEND UPON RENNINGER’S, A SPRAWLING ANTIQUE CENTER, FLEA MARKET, AND FARMER'S MARKET WHERE 200 VENDORS OVERFLOW WITH FINDS IN ALL SHAPES AND STYLES. DURING ITS ANTIQUE EXTRAVAGANZAS IN FEBRUARY AND NOVEMBER, THE MARKET EXPANDS TO HOST MORE THAN 1,500 ANTIQUE DEALERS AND MORE THAN 800 BOOTHS. SHOP FRIDAY TO SUNDAY TO FIND ONE-OF-A-KIND GOODS THAT RUN THE GAMUT FROM HIGHEND VINTAGE FURNITURE TO SALVAGED GOODS AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN.

(RENNINGERS.NET/MT-DORA)

Dora's Lakeside inn are treated to a tranquil taste of days gone by in guest rooms filled with curated antiques and clusters of adirondack chairs overlooking Lake Dora.

West

Experience Exclusivity

3.5 Hours away: the

S

ituated on Boca Grande—a barrier island off of Florida’s southwest coast—The Gasparilla Inn & Club may well be one of the last classic country club resorts in the United States.

The historic property is named after the esteemed eighteenth-century Spanish pirate, Jose Gaspar, who is said to have plundered the seas for treasure and then retreated to an island lair to stash his loot. Gaspar’s rumored doubloons remain undiscovered, but the real treasure here is this upper-crust resort hideaway.

Built in 1913 (and boasting the distinction

of Florida’s oldest wooden hotel), The Inn (as it is known to regulars who return season after season) exudes Old Florida charm with its pale yellow wood-framed buildings, its white pillared porch, and its gabled rooflines. Guest accommodations come in a variety of forms dotting the more than 180 acres of grounds— from suites to cottages, from villas to estate

homes—all done in chic and cheerful colors, with warm wickers and shells galore.

The Inn occupies a manicured landscape that floats between the Gulf of Mexico and Charlotte Harbor. Without a traffic light in sight, guests and residents alike get around on foot, by bike, or via golf cart to traverse the palm tree-studded island.

Dining is practically an art at The Inn. Days are begun and evenings ended with respective formal breakfasts and dinners in the traditional Dining Room that serves multicourse meals. More casual (but still upscale) fare awaits at The Pink Elephant Restaurant, while relaxed options include The Outlet’s Diner at The Innlet for breezy breakfasts and luncheons. The Inn’s bar—known as

Gasparilla Inn & Club on Boca Grande

In-the-know guests flock to The Gasparilla Inn & club each season to experience the epitome of quiet luxury, whether they're biking, beaching, or lounging at the pool with a cocktail in hand.

Scenes

to See: Historic Lighthouses

BZ’s—is the quintessential evening spot to unwind with a cocktail in hand at the pecky Cypress bar; the local favorite is The Inn’s signature Gaspartini (Cabo Wabo Tequila, lime juice, agave, and Himalayan sea salt).

The Inn is a place for celebrating tradition and all the activities that go with it. To that end, you can tee off at the 6,836-yard Pete Dye 18-hole golf course or take in a tennis match on one of seven Har-Tru tennis courts. Prefer mallet sports? The Croquet Club features a full Championship English Rule croquet court (just be sure to pack your croquet whites).

Take advantage of the island’s full-service marina where you can dock your own boat

or charter one for a day trip. Boca Grande is known as the “Tarpon Fishing Capital of the World” and its waters are rich with grouper, snapper, mackerel, and kingfish—making a day of fishing a must-do.

When it’s time to relax, there’s the Beach Club with its massive family pool that faces the Gulf of Mexico, and its private stretch of beach beyond. Relax on a lounger in full style or retreat indoors to The Inn’s state-of-the-art spa with a menu of enticing treatments that changes seasonally.

Over its storied history, The Inn has hosted notable guests including Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Katharine Hepburn, the George H.W. Bush family, and more. In years gone by, reservations could only be made through hard-to-come-by referrals from well-

IT'S A TINY ISLAND, BUT GASPARILLA FEATURES TWO DISTINCT LIGHTHOUSES. THE FIRST, BUILT IN 1890, IS THE PORT BOCA GRANDE LIGHTHOUSE (PICTURED ABOVE). IT WAS ORIGINALLY USED TO SAFELY GUIDE SHIPS INTO THE CHARLOTTE HARBOR. TODAY, IT'S HOME TO A MUSEUM FILLED WITH THE RICH HISTORY OF GASPARILLA ISLAND. THE SECOND IS THE GASPARILLA ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE (LOCALLY KNOWN AS THE RANGE LIGHT) . IT WAS FIRST INSTALLED IN DELAWARE, BUT IN 1927, IT WAS MOVED, REASSEMBLED, AND INSTALLED ON GASPARILLA ISLAND JUST SOUTH OF THE TOWN OF BOCA GRANDE BY THE U.S. LIGHTHOUSE SERVICE. WANT TO CLIMB TO THE TOP OF THIS 105-FOOT-TALL TOWER? BOOK ONE OF SEVERAL DAILY TOURS THAT ARE AVAILABLE OCTOBER THRU APRIL OF EACH YEAR. (BIPS.ORG)

heeled acquaintances. These days, however, anyone looking to visit can reserve a room online or by phone. But don’t delay: The Inn is only open October through June. When reservations open for each new season, spaces go quickly. Snap one up so you, too, can join the ranks of the elite who have called this Florida gem home, if only for a short stay. (the-gasparilla-inn.com) —K.D.L.

From top: The Inn's golf course offers sweeping water views; BZ's bar is the perfect spot for a nightcap; The Beach Club stuns in hues of blue, white, and lime green; Guest rooms and suites are appointed in furnishings that mix classic prep with island style.

DISTILLERIES Worth e Drive

Travel by tipple through the Sunshine State’s burgeoning craft spirits scene

BY

JULES ARON | COCKTAIL PHOTOGRAPHY BY GYORGY PAPP

The craft distillery trade in Florida has exploded in recent years in the wake of regulation changes that have paved the way for independent distilleries to thrive. Counting nearly 50 independent businesses across the state—with more ramping up—many of these small batch distilleries are gaining recognition for their innovative approaches. Award-winning liqueurs and spirits like vodka, gin, rum, whiskey, and even moonshine are crafted using locally sourced ingredients and plenty of homegrown lore. To boot, many Florida distilleries are a destination unto themselves, offering tastings, tours, cocktail classes, and more. Take a tour with us of some of Florida’s most creative distilleries and raise a glass to cocktails crafted with spirits made right here in the Sunshine State.

Steel Tie Spirits Revenge Rum Chainbridge

Distill y Tropical Distill s

STEEL TIE SPIRITS

Ben Etheridge, co-owner and head distiller at Steel Tie Spirits in West Palm Beach’s Warehouse District, creates the brand’s signature Black Coral rum using pure molasses derived from sugarcane crops harvested in Clewiston. The rum is aged in new American white oak barrels and then filtered through coconut husks. The distillery’s spiced rum is flavored with real Madagascar vanilla beans, while its black rum gets its dark hue and robust profile from the addition of raw blackstrap molasses and spices. Visitors can take a tasting tour or order a cocktail from the in-house bar’s seasonal cocktail menu; stop in on Thursday nights for karaoke or on Fridays for food truck night. (steeltiespirits.com)

REVENGE RUM

Crafted in a historic firehouse in West Palm Beach (retrofitted to offer a tasting room and tours in addition to a distillery), owner Chris Bold’s Revenge Rum is a crisp white rum perfect for cocktails. The spirit is made using reverse-osmosis pink Himalayan salt, mineral water, grade A American molasses, and a secret blend of yeast nutrients. After fermenting for seven days in temperature-controlled vessels, the concoction is run through

a 1,000-gallon copper stripping still and then again through a 600-gallon copper pot spirit still. Finally, the rum is chill-filtered at 18 degrees Fahrenheit and bottled. Not surprisingly for a spirit named Revenge, Bold says it’s “best served cold.” (revenge.com)

CHAINBRIDGE DISTILLERY

Specializing in palinka—an eau-de-vie style of fruit brandy—Bela Nahori crafts noteworthy spirits at this Oakland Park distillery. Chainbridge’s 80 proof spirits— in flavors from plum to beet to blueberry—contain no added sugars, artificial flavors, colors, extracts, or preservatives. Each batch rests for a minimum of three months before undergoing filtration and bottling. The distillery—which welcomes visitors for tours or tasting room tipples—has been recognized by both the American Craft Spirits Association and American Distilling Institute for its Williams Pear Brandy, its Florida Basil Vodka, and its unique Carrot Spirit. (chainbridgedistillery.com)

RevengeRum

Tropical Distillers

Steel Tie Spirits

Meet the Mak

Fernando Plata, Head Distiller at Big Cypress Distillery

A U.S. Army veteran, Fernando Plata started Big Cypress Distillery in 2015 with his brother and brotherin-law. With a background in software, Plata is a selftaught distiller who loves a challenge. “Becoming an expert in this field is nearly impossible,” says Plata. “Since I’m a stickler for quality, the process keeps me engaged.” Plata loves English-style rums because, “they have so much character,” he says. He also enjoys working with botanicals. “The distillery is currently working on several aperitifs; one that’s low-bitter and low-proof, and another that’s very bitter and high in alcohol. And we’re always making fresh fruit liqueurs,” he explains. When asked about the awards his products have garnered, Plata’s response is humble. “I love seeing my private label clients succeed,” he says. “For example, our all-natural, premium American aperitif for Munyon’s Paw Paw has been a huge hit.” A strong supporter of Florida’s craft movement, Plata takes pride in his place as an innovator.

TROPICAL DISTILLERS

Tropical Distillers’ J.F. Haden’s small-batch citrus and mango liqueurs are made from locally grown fruit. They also craft their special Twin P Whiskey brand created by co-owners Mike and Maurkice Pouncey, former NFL All-Pros. Tropical Distillers’ 8,000-square-foot facility in Miami (appropriately decked out in palm trees and pastels) closes to visitors in the summer months but will reopen for tastings and tours this fall. (tropicaldistillery.com)

BIG CYPRESS DISTILLERY

Miami’s Big Cypress Distillery creates a variety of spirits and fruit liqueurs using a hybrid pot and column still. Try their sloe gins, their spiced rum, and their award-winning, semi-dry Magic City Gin—made from 11 botanicals. Big Cypress’ Munyon’s Paw Paw is made from a recipe based on the historical formulations of a local homeopathic doctor. Book a reservation in advance to guarantee a spot at the lounge, where you can sample barrel-aged cocktails, mixed drinks, and a gin and tonic bar Thursday through Saturday evenings. (bigcypressdistillery.com)

PAPA’S PILAR RUM DISTILLERY

Paying homage to writer Ernest “Papa” Hemingway and his beloved boat, Pilar, this Key West rum distillery crafts dark, blonde, sherry cask, and rye-finished varieties. Seventh-generation master distiller Ron Call hand selects rums from places like Barbados, the Dominican Republic, Panama, Venezuela, Lakeland, and Key West. Visit the distillery for a wide range of experiences—from traditional tours and tastings to cocktail classes to a journey through Papa’s most iconic novels in a library-like setting. (papaspilar.com)

Ingredients

1 oz. Magic City

Cool as a CUCUMBER

XXI Gin from Big Cypress Distillery

1/2 oz. Munyon’s Paw Paw from Big Cypress Distillery

3/4 oz. fresh pressed cucumber juice

3/4 oz. fresh lime juice

3-4 oz. tonic

2 dashes celery bitters

Cucumber and grapefruit slice for garnish

« Add ingredients to a glass with ice and stir.

« Garnish with a cucumber rose and a slice of grapefruit.

Big CypressDistillery

Papa’s Pilar Rum Distillery

WICKED DOLPHIN

ListDistillery

Cape Coral’s Wicked Dolphin crafts an awardwinning rum made from local sugarcane, handcrafted in small batches and distilled in Florida’s largest copper pot. Then it’s aged—for 3 to 14 years—in American white oak bourbon barrels. If you’re a fan of flavored rum, this is the place to try—from key lime to mango to cold brew coffee. Visitors can tour Wicked Dolphin to see their production process and taste current spirits (and even concoctions still under development). (wickeddolphin.com)

LIST DISTILLERY

Founded by Thomas and Renate List (the latter boasting family ties to Jägermeister), Fort Myers’ List Distillery is home to Mr. Tom’s Spirits, a product line using only locally sourced, natural ingredients. The small batch distillery

turns out a host of spirit types including vodka, gin, rum, bourbon, whiskey, and even cream liqueurs. A standout includes the United States’ first certified 100 percent sugar- and gluten-free vodka, as well as the world’s only certified 100 percent sugar- and gluten-free gin. Contact List Distillery ahead of time to set up a tour and tasting. Make your visit memorable by selecting a spirit to buy and having the bottle customengraved as a keepsake. (listdistillery.com)

EVERGLADES DISTILLERS

Located in Immokalee, Everglades Distillers is Collier County’s first and only distillery. This veteran- and family-owned distillery specializes in whiskeys, rums, and flavored vodkas (think: Watermelon-Pineapple, Orange-Passionfruit, Cucumber-Lemon, and Jalapeño) made from Florida sugar. Try their Honey Whiskey, made with a blend of three types of local honey. (evergladesdistillers.com)

Ingredients

2 oz. 25/80  Everglades Honey Whiskey from Everglades Distillers

1 tsp. orange blossom honey

2 dashes angostura bitters

1/2 slice of Florida orange

Pinch of cinnamon sugar (1/2 cinnamon, 1/2 cane sugar)

Culinary torch

« Add whiskey, honey, and bitters to an empty cocktail glass and stir.

« Place large ice cube into an old-fashioned glass. Add the cocktail.

« Place the orange slice on top of the ice cube and add a pinch of cinnamon sugar to the slice of orange. Use the torch to caramelize and brûlée the sugar.

List Distillery

Wicked Dolphin

Meet the Mak

JoAnn Elardo, Co-Founder of

Wicked Dolphin

For JoAnn Elardo, the inspiration to start a distillery began with a cocktail.

DRUM CIRCLE DISTILLING

Drum Circle Distilling is a family-owned rum distillery located in Sarasota. Known for its line of small-batch Siesta Key rums (including varieties infused with toasted coconut and coffee), their flagship product, Siesta Key Gold Rum, is pot-distilled from Florida molasses and aged in used bourbon barrels. Distillery tours here run seven days a week, but note that it’s best to make reservations ahead of time to ensure availability. Stop by their Infinity Room bar post-tour for spirit pours, cocktails, and mixed drinks. (siestakeyrum.com)

ALLIGATOR BAY DISTILLERS

Run by brothers Alex and Ben Voss, Alligator Bay Distillers produces award-winning rums and whiskeys. Their 3,000-square-foot facility in Bonita Springs houses old-fashioned

copper pot stills. Of note: the distillery’s Alligator Bay White Rum—double-distilled from Floridian blackstrap molasses sourced in Clewiston—earned a silver medal in the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits competition. (alligatorbaydistillers.com)

LOADED CANNON DISTILLERY

Named among USA Today’s top 10 new distilleries, Bradenton’s Loaded Cannon Distillery is the first distillery in Manatee County. Though the spot is a relative newcomer, it has held the Best Flavored Vodka Distillery in Florida title from guidetoflorida.com for two years running. Try the Anney’s Blade jalapeño vodka (made in a 500-gallon copper still nicknamed “Anney”). Tours of Loaded Cannon’s facilities include education on production, fermentation, and bottling, followed by a five spirit sampling session. (loadedcannondistillery.com)

“I had some interests in the sugar industry,” she recalls. “While having a cocktail that tasted like suntan lotion, I looked at the bottle and saw it was being made in Canada. I thought, ‘We are growing most of the sugarcane in the U.S. right here in Florida. Why are we not making rum here?’ It was the start of Wicked Dolphin distillery.” It’s perhaps not surprising, then, that Elardo’s favorite spirit these days is Wicked Dolphin’s Barrel Aged Rum. “Or, if I’m at the beach,” she adds, “it’s our Wicked Dolphin Coconut Rum.” Next up in the distillery’s pipeline are explorations of cane juice distilling and incorporating innovative fruit combinations.

“[Florida’s] local produce and fruit inspire so many ideas,” Elardo says. “We love bringing that energy back into our products.”

Everglades Distillers

Drum Circle Distilling

21stAmendment

21st AMENDMENT DISTILLERY

This distillery in Vero Beach pays homage to the era of bootleggers and speakeasies. The name refers to a 1933 act of Congress that repealed Prohibition, which had been the law of the land since 1920. Founder and former U.S. Marine Jeff Palleschi celebrates the American spirit with a range of bourbons, plus rye, rum, and agave. Our favorites? Their 21AD Bourbon Whiskey, Term Limits Vodka, and Min Pin Gin. Tours are offered Wednesday through Sunday and include a spirit sampler. Afterward, stay awhile in the Speakeasy cocktail lounge to enjoy craft cocktails and local bites. (21st-distillery.com)

INDIAN RIVER DISTILLERY

You’ll find a variety of craft liquors, including vodka, gin, and rum produced by Ray and Mandy Hooker at Vero Beach’s Indian River Distillery. Try the Ashley Gang Moonshine Corn Whiskey (honoring the “King of the Everglades,” swamp bandit John Ashley), Treasure Fleet Rum Silver, or the Vero Beach Vodka—all of which start life as a 100 percent neutral spirit distilled from sugarcane. (indianriverdistillery.com)

WINTER PARK DISTILLING COMPANY

Just north of Orlando, Paul Twyford and Andrew Asher built their distillery on a humble handmade 50-gallon still and a collection of old whiskey reci-

pes. The pair take pride in their commitment to high quality at an affordable price—bottling their vodka, whiskeys, bourbons, and rums in wine bottles to keep costs low. (wpdistilling.com)

FISH HAWK SPIRITS

Ocala’s Fish Hawk Spirits is committed to a farm-to-bottle process—growing the corn used in their whiskey on fields adjacent to the distillery, harvesting fresh fruit from their own groves, growing their own herbs and botanicals for their infused spirits, and even pumping their water from wells fed by the Rainbow River watershed for use in their mash and blending processes. Far from the trend of industrial warehouses or bougie tasting rooms, Fish Hawk still does things the oldfashioned way: distilling their 27 award-winning spirits (including whiskey, rum, vodka, absinthe, and brandy) in a farm shed, using hand-built stills.

(fishhawkspirits.net)

e Moon & THE SEA

Ingredients

1 1/2 oz. Indian River Ashley Gang Moonshine Corn Whiskey from Indian River Distillery

1/2 oz. passion fruit puree

1/2 oz. fresh lemon juice

1/2 oz. orgeat

1 oz. butterfly pea and lavender tea Coral lace tuile for garnish

« Add the first four ingredients to a shaker with ice. Strain into a highball glass. Wait for the drink to settle, then top with the tea. Garnish with a coral lace tuile.

coral lace tuile Ingredients

1/3 cup flour

2/5 cup water

2/5 cup oil

1/2 tsp. powdered food coloring

« Emulsify the ingredients and add to a hot nonstick pan on medium high. Once the lace tuile has formed and the liquid has cooked off, gently pry it from the pan and place on a towel-lined plate to cool and dry. Store in an airtight container. Use within a week.

Dist i l lery

Fish Hawk Spirits

Coth man Distilling Company

Kozuba & Sons Distill y

St. Pet sburg Distill y

Gambl s Bay Distill y

Meet the Mak

Warren Gardner, Master Distiller at St. Petersburg Distillery

Warren Gardner sees his vocation as a matter of destiny. A chance meeting with a fourth-generation master distiller more than a decade ago inspired Gardner (who was working as a mechanic) to try a new path. Today, Gardner says the artistry and craftsmanship involved in distilling continue to inspire him. “I am motivated by the opportunity to create unique, high-quality spirits that reflect our local culture and traditions,” he says. As for his favorite spirit St. Petersburg Distillery is currently producing? “Agave,” he says. “It’s a chance to produce something that’s so sought after, [but something that has been] outside our reach until now,” he explains. “To finally taste years of progress, it makes you get excited for the next batch of spirits.”

Tampa BAY

GAMBLERS BAY DISTILLERY

GamblersBayDistillery

Tampa’s Gamblers Bay Distillery makes Florida-centric spirits following Romanian family recipes that date back 120 years. Their Florida Farm Vodka, made from 100 percent Florida corn, was awarded double gold at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Try their other award-winning products, including Florapina Guava Rum and Citrus Tree Floridian Gin. (gamblersbaydistillery.com)

COTHERMAN DISTILLING COMPANY

Located just six miles north of Clearwater Beach in Dunedin, this husband-and-wife-run distillery crafts its 727 Vodka from 100 percent malted barley, plus a vapor-infused Half Mine Gin and a whiskey made from unhopped and unboiled beer. (instagram.com/cothermandistillingco)

KOZUBA & SONS DISTILLERY

Kozuba & Sons is a family-run distillery in St. Petersburg. The trio of father and sons specialize in small-batch spirits including a wheat and barrel aged vodka, two flavored vodkas in lemon and orange, a rye malt whiskey, a white whiskey, and two cordials. (kozubadistillery.com)

ST. PETERSBURG DISTILLERY

From gins and vodkas to rums and whiskeys, St. Petersburg Distillery focuses on “grains to glass” distilling. Try their Tippler’s Orange Liqueur made from Florida oranges and filled with notes of citrus, apricots, peppermint, and smoked oak. Visits to this distillery include interactive classes on making the perfect old-fashioned, a tasting of samples of four different spirits distilled on site, and even an immersive tour led by master distiller Warren Gardner. (stpetersburgdistillery.com)

TICKLED Pink

Ingredients

1/2 oz. Chainbridge Sour Cherry Spiced Rum from Chainbridge Distillery

1/2 oz. simple syrup

1/2 oz. lemon juice

Candied rhubarb stalk for garnish

« Add all the ingredients to a shaker with ice and shake well.

« Strain into a glass and garnish with a candied rhubarb stalk.

Kozuba & Sons Distillery

St. Petersburg Distillery

ST. AUGUSTINE DISTILLERY

Built in a restored 1917 Florida Power & Light ice plant, St. Augustine Distillery was founded by 20 local families. It holds the title of most visited craft distillery in America. Perhaps that’s due to its outstanding spirits, which have won six awards in the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, including a gold medal for Florida Straight Bourbon. Besides spirits, St. Augustine has created a line of mixers including old-fashioned, Florida mule, grapefruit hibiscus, and tropical tiki. Seven days a week, visitors can embark on a self-guided tour or opt for a more in-depth adventure with a guided tour and tasting flight. Add on the fillyour-own-bottle experience to step behind the production lines and personalize your own bottle of cask-strength bourbon distilled in-house. (staugustinedistillery.com)

MANIFEST DISTILLING

Jacksonville’s Manifest Distilling is North Florida’s only full-scale organic distillery. Though not every product Manifest makes is organic, its facility is—keeping a chain of custody on every raw material purchased, using nontoxic sanitation and pest control practices, and isolating any products that aren’t organic. Their product lineup includes a non-GMO potato vodka, Florida citrus vodka, organic gin, organic barreled gin, organic rye whiskey, and 100 percent rye whiskey. Their Florida Botanical Gin is steeped in Florida-friendly

flavors that highlight the local terroir. Visit for a brief distillery tour or a longer distillery experience that takes a deep dive into the science and art of distilling spirits—concluding with tutored tasting focused on sensory perception, nosing, and even blind tasting. (manifestdistilling.com)

TIMBER CREEK DISTILLERY

For a unique farm-to-bottle experience, look no further than Timber Creek Distillery in Crestview. Located on a family farm, the distillery’s surrounding crops fuel the handcrafted rye, rum, whiskey, and vodka they create. Don’t miss their VIP Tour and Bourbon Blending Experience for an insider’s look at Timber Creek’s process. (timbercreekdistillery.com)

COPPER BOTTOM CRAFT DISTILLERY

DARK Tropics

Ingredients

1 1/2 oz. Revenge Rum

3/4 oz. J.F. Haden’s Espresso Liqueur

1 oz. espresso

1 oz. freshly pressed pineapple juice

1/2 oz. orgeat

Coral-shaped cookie for garnish

« Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with a coral-shaped cookie.

Holly Hill’s Copper Bottom Craft Distillery produces handcrafted, award-winning spirits with no artificial colors, flavors, or sugars added. All of Copper Bottom’s spirits—a variety of rums and a single vodka—are made from raw sugarcane. Tours with the knowledgeable head distiller run Wednesday through Saturday, offering industry secrets and insights into Copper Bottom’s unique process. (copperbottomspirits.com)

St. Augustine Distillery

Manifest Distilling

To the Ends of the

LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT SAILS DEEP INTO THE POLAR REGIONS, OFFERING A GLIMPSE OF FROZEN LANDSCAPES—AND LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCES— NEVER BEFORE ACCESSIBLE TO PASSENGER TRAVEL

BY DAPHNE NIKOLOPOULOS

Le Commandant Charcot, Ponant’s newly built Polar Class 2 icebreaker, travels to the most inaccessible regions of the Arctic and Antarctic. The expedition ship is capable of breaking deep multiyear ice, going further than any passenger ship has gone before.

une 14, 3 a.m. It’s a summer night but you wouldn’t know it sitting on this balcony, shivering inside a parka and trying to make sense of the vast frozen desert that stretches toward an indeterminate horizon. The Arctic fog has whited out the sun, which normally would be high and bright at this hour, and what remains is a strange light—Uranian, volatile, opaque. If Crayola made a crayon this color, its name would be Cold. It seems like madness to sit out here, needled by a bitter chill, when two inches of down await on the other side of the sliding glass door. But there’s something bewitching about this icy wilderness off Greenland’s northeast coast, a part of our planet so remote that the only trace of human habitation is hundreds of miles away. To lay eyes on a place that so few have seen is a privilege I hesitate to squander by sleeping.

Near 74 degrees North, the pack ice forms a single white mass crisscrossed by pressure ridges formed when glacial ice floes collide. Everywhere there are hummocks, or ice mounds, that look like giant heaps of

shaving cream—perfect camouflage for polar bears on the hunt. I scan the terrain through binoculars, but I don’t know how to read the ice, especially in fog. The icescape is so unknowable that it might as well be on another planet.

I listen for movement—a crack in the ice, the beating of a wing—but there is nothing. This far above the Arctic Circle, the stillness is profound. It presses against you, makes you uncomfortable. The tendency is to want to do something—to look for a polar bear, say—but you quickly learn that you have no authority here. Nature makes the rules. You trust. And when you do, this world opens up to you.

Three years ago, passenger travel to these icebound regions wasn’t even possible. The ice is too thick and complex to penetrate without a formidable icebreaking hull. Enter Le Commandant Charcot, an expedition ship launched in 2021 by French cruise company Ponant for travel deep into the polar regions, including to the geographical North Pole. Named after French explorer Jean-Baptiste Charcot, Ponant’s newest ship has a Polar Class 2 (PC2) ice rating, which means it is capable of routinely navigating through 10-foot-deep sea ice, though it packs

power far beyond that. (In sea trials it pushed through a nearly 50-foot-deep ice ridge in Greenland.) To put it into perspective, the only other PC2 vessels out there are used for research or military operations.

Because it sails into some of the most sensitive environments on the planet, Charcot was built as the first luxury icebreaker ship running on a mix of battery and liquefied natural gas (LNG) to minimize emissions and environmental impact. Electricity produced by the LNG-powered engines is stored in batteries whose use reduces fuel consumption and allows the ship to run, for almost an hour at a time, so quietly that even the bears don’t hear it coming.

The ship is the epitome of sustainability at sea. Ponant’s protocols for Charcot go beyond what is necessary, to include 100 percent elimination of singleuse plastic on board, 60 percent recycling rate (compared to an industry

“All of humanity is sensitive to how the climate is changing, and its impact is powerfully felt in the Arctic. We can’t wait to conduct these experiments [until] the ice has diminished or disappeared altogether. [Research] is not a choice; it’s a mandate.”

standard of 20 percent), and chemical-free wastewater treatment to allow for clean discharges. The idea is to balance luxury travel with eco-responsibility, so you can feel good that your meal at the ship’s Alain Ducasse restaurant came from a short supply chain (one night we had musk ox meat sourced from Inuit hunters at the village of Ittoqqortoormiit), or that the water in your refillable bottle was produced through reverse osmosis of seawater and microfiltration.

“We have made adaptations that are responsible, for the sake

of these fragile environments,” says Navin Sawhney, Ponant’s CEO Americas. “Combine [this] with luxurious style and the ever-present science facilitated onboard to carry out research and conservation, and there isn’t another ship like it in the whole world.”

Le Commandant Charcot is unique in that it’s a platform for the scientific community. Researchers specializing in the polar regions are granted access to the onboard lab and transportation to the field to facilitate their studies, and the resident science officer conducts ongoing testing for ice quality and the effects of climate change, for which the Arctic is ground zero. According to the journal Nature, climate models show the Arctic is warming at least twice as fast as the rest of the planet. And the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s most recent Arctic Report Card asserts that Summer 2023 was the Arctic’s warmest on record and sea ice continues to decline.

“All of humanity is sensitive to how the climate is changing, and its impact is powerfully felt in the Arctic,” says Sawhney. “We can’t wait to conduct these experiments [until] the ice has diminished or disappeared altogether. [Research] is not a choice; it’s a mandate.”

The net-net of the conversation: the time is now to bear witness to these wild places.

y morning the fog has lifted and the ship is pursuing an ideal spot for an ice landing. Under the pressure of Charcot’s massive hull, blocks of ice the size of an SUV break and flip, revealing their aquamarine undersides. The sea beneath is steel gray and, I imagine, spectacularly frigid. Still, a couple dozen passengers have signed up for the polar plunge and the bragging rights that come with a baptism into some of the coldest water on Earth.

The rest of us are content to explore on dry land. When Charcot “docks,” it’s a surreal sight. The ship pushes into a slab of fast ice (solid

Passing Scoresby Sound (below), Charcot lands on fast ice outside the Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit on its first stop en route to Greenland’s northeast coast. Here, dog sleds are the preferred mode of transportation. Opposite page, clockwise from top: The Blue Lagoon, patterned after Iceland’s geothermal baths, offers the opportunity to ice-gaze in toasty comfort; a solitary walk on fast ice; kayaking in a polynya.

ice that is attached to land), stops, and drops down a gangway. The menu of activities includes polar hiking into snow-covered mountains, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing for a more intimate connection to the ice. When conditions are clear and we find a polynya (open water between ice floes), there is also kayaking and zodiac cruising among icebergs, in seal and walrus territory.

Today it’s snowshoes. We go out as a small group accompanied by a naturalist who’s also a gunner, because you never know. To keep us safe, there are lookouts from the ship and along a perimeter manned by other naturalists trained in reading the nuances of ice. So we trudge on through a pristine ice field, aiming for an iceberg that could be 100 feet or a mile away. On the ice, you lose any sense of distance. And time. For an hour, or so it seems, we walk to a soundtrack of snow crunching beneath snowshoes and a chorus of labored breathing, transfixed by coins of light shimmering on the whiteness or by spots of melting ice like blue thumbprints.

By no means is this a leisurely sailing. “The intent is to engage you in every possible way,” says Sawhney. “Through native encounters, understanding the Inuits’ lifestyle or how they study and greet ice, scientific research, and wildlife and natural history encounters, you get trans-

Clockwise from left: Kayaking affords wildlife sightings at close range; a polar bear hunts at the ice’s edge; a Weddell seal in Antarctica; snowshoeing in the midnight sun. Opposite page, counterclockwise from top: Ittoqqortoormiit is the northernmost village on east Greenland; ice fishing; Charcot slices through a vast expanse of sea ice.

IAN DAWSON

formed. [The Arctic] becomes a part of you.”

Through native encounters, understanding the Inuits’ lifestyle or how they study and greet ice, scientific research, and wildlife and natural history encounters, you get transformed. [The Arctic] becomes a part of you.”

Out here, wildlife encounters are indelible. As the flagship species of the Arctic, the polar bear creates a powerful impression on those lucky enough to see it. This most charismatic of bears is often objectified for its cuteness, but in reality, the massive carnivore is a lonesome and vicious predator forever prowling the icy wilds in search of food.

Which is why, when the naturalist’s radio crackles with the news of a sighting, we double-time it back to the ship. From the safety of the promenade deck, we wait. The juvenile male approaches, stopping in front of the starboard side. He sniffs some now-faded tracks and makes his way to the edge of the ice. He studies the water, slides in with barely

a splash. It’s going to be some seal’s unlucky day.

Before I set off on this journey, several people asked me “Why the Arctic?”, implying that there’s nothing there. But there is. At least a dozen polar bear encounters, a close-up with a walrus on the water, the gilded light of the midnight sun, citizen science, and ice fishing with Inuits are transformative experiences. Most important is the ice. To witness the living ice as it shifts, splinters, and breathes, and see firsthand how many species it supports, is to understand its importance to the health of our planet. If, according to the World Wildlife Fund, the Arctic could be icefree by 2040, one day I will describe the frozen North to my future grandchildren’s wide-eyed wonder. It’s bragging rights I never care to have. «

NATHALIE MICHEL

REAL ESTATE Profiles

THE AVENTURA REAL ESTATE MARKET IS HOT AND GROWING FAST.

On the following pages we profile Top Real Estate Professionals who call Aventura home.

Whether you are looking for a single family starter home or high-rise views of the Atlantic and Intercoastal, these agents can help you find the home you’ve been dreaming of.

REAL ESTATE

Success

Story Maker

Sara Ludmir boasts more than two decades of expertise in the real estate industry with Coldwell Banker Realty in Aventura. As an agent, she has established herself as a highly respected and leading professional in the region. Sara has consistently received accolades throughout her real estate career, securing a position as one of the leading agents at the Aventura office, placing among the top 25 agents in Southeast Florida, and acknowledged as one of the top 100 residential real estate agents in Florida. Furthermore, she ranks within the top 2 percent of Coldwell Banker agents globally. Before relocating to South Florida, she gained valuable experience as a real estate professional at a well-known firm in Lima, Peru, her country of origin.

Sara is recognized for her integrity, diplomacy, and sincerity, aiming to establish trust with both colleagues and clients. Leveraging her background in economics, extensive real estate expertise, and exceptional negotiating abilities, she employs pricing strategies, market insights, and outstanding customer service to educate buyers and sellers effectively. Sara’s dedication has led to a well-established history of accomplishments, as she fervently supports her clients in reaching their goals. By prioritizing attentive listening, meticulous attention to detail, and understanding each client’s individual circumstances, she fosters strong and trustworthy relationships.

A considerable segment of her customer base comprises of devoted patrons and individuals recommended by others. As confirmed by one of her contented customers, “Sara is simply phenomenal. She is extremely knowledgeable, dedicated and, above all, a trustworthy real estate agent. She made sure all our needs are met 100 percent and was always on top of things. We would highly recommend Sara.”

Sara consistently educates herself on the ever-evolving local market in South Florida and offers her expertise, cutting-edge marketing solutions, advanced technology, worldwide visibility, and networking opportunities available through Coldwell Banker Realty.

SARA LUDMIR / COLDWELL BANKER REALTY

20803 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 102, Aventura

For more information: 786-256-0817 or sara.ludmir@floridamoves.com

AVENTURA’S

Premier Real Estate

BROKER

In the bustling real estate landscape of Aventura, Joel Matus stands out as the epitome of excellence, earning the prestigious title of Aventura’s top producer. As the No. 1 listing and selling agent in the city, Matus has consistently delivered unparalleled results, solidifying his reputation as the go-to expert for all real estate needs.

With a remarkable legacy as the No. 1 agent for the esteemed community of Williams Island since 1995, Matus boasts a remarkable track record of success. Having sold over $2 billion in real estate, his expertise is unmatched.

At Williams Island Realty, Matus spearheads the only onsite real estate office that generates the most walk-in and call-in traffic. Offering exclusive client tours facilitated by easy-access golf carts, which provides a personalized and immersive experience for buyers. His commitment to innovation is evident in the company’s status as the No. 1 website on Google search for Williams Island, consistently outperforming competitors with over five times the transactions.

Driven by a passion for client satisfaction and backed by a team of seasoned professionals, Matus leaves no stone unturned in his pursuit of excellence. His dedication to open communication, transparency, and integrity ensures that clients feel empowered and informed throughout every transaction.

For all your real estate needs in Williams Island and beyond, trust in the expertise of the premier specialist, call Joel Matus at 305-409-0000.

JOEL MATUS / WILLIAMS ISLAND REALTY

2600 Island Blvd., Suite CU-1, Aventura

For more information: 305-937-7800 or williamsislandrealty.com

30 YEARS

Experience

& Personalized Service

For nearly 30 years, Scott Patterson has established himself as a powerhouse in South Florida’s luxury real estate market. As the senior vice president at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services (BHHS), Scott’s unwavering dedication and personalized approach have made him a standout figure in the industry. He ranks as the top 2 producer companywide and top 19 globally.

Scott’s nearly 30-year tenure at BHHS is marked by his commitment to providing hands-on, individualized service. When clients choose Scott, they work directly with him, benefiting from his extensive expertise and nearly three decades of selling the South Florida lifestyle, so they can be confident that they will be collaborating with him personally, rather than with an inexperienced agent or team member. His deep knowledge of the market, combined with innovative marketing strategies, positions him as a leading expert in luxury real estate negotiations, marketing, and sales.

Scott’s success is not just measured by sales, but by the enduring relationships and trust he has built with his clients. His attention to detail and dedication to ensuring a seamless transaction for every client have earned him countless referrals and lifelong friendships. Known for his market leadership, Scott is a trusted advisor and skilled negotiator who consistently delivers exceptional results.

For those looking to sell or buy luxury properties in South Florida, Scott Patterson is the real estate professional you can rely on for unmatched expertise and a personalized touch.

SCOTT PATTERSON, PA, SENIOR VP BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES

EWM

REALTY

2750 NE 185th St., Suite 101, Aventura

For more information: 954-661-8871 or scottpatterson.com

Estate Royalty Real

Denise Rubin breaks records in the real estate industry, surpassing more than $2.6 billion in personal sales, dominating the marketplace. Exposure is everything, and Rubin promotes her listings with innovative and all-encompassing local, national, and international marketing programs unmatched anywhere. Her online and social media presence also effectively places her in front of millions daily. In addition, she is now a cast member on an Emmy Award-nominated TV show, The American Dream—Selling Miami, where she showcases her exclusive listings.

Rubin is a seven-time Realtor of the Year and has amassed a roomful of awards, including 32 BEST Awards from the Builders Association of South Florida. With so many impressive accolades, her relationship with her clients is the ultimate sign of success. Rubin has a national and international client roster that reads like its own who’s who list of CEOs, public figures, musicians, artists, actors like Donald Sutherland, athletes like Miguel Cabrera and Deion Sanders, and other household names.

Specializing in home buying and selling, from single-family homes and condos to new developments, land, and investment property from South Beach to Palm Beach. Rubin delivers attentive service and timely results. From contract to closing, she makes sure every aspect of your transaction is streamlined. Rubin is supported by full-time staff and a multilingual team and prides herself on being the best at what she does. Rubin is known for getting record-breaking sales prices due to her negotiation skills, 35-plus years of experience, and extensive knowledge of the market.

Rubin is ranked the No. 1 agent at Coldwell Banker Aventura; she is No.1 in sales volume and No.1 for most units sold. She has reached the highest level you can achieve—the International Society of Excellence— multiple times. Denise Rubin is in the top half of 1 percent of Realtors nationwide.

DENISE RUBIN / DENISE RUBIN GROUP 20803 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 102, Aventura For more information: 305-409-0019 or deniserubin.com

Promotion

Real Estate TOP LEVEL Expertise

Cindy Orlinsky is an attorney, a successful business executive, and powerhouse real estate broker who launched House & Hive to serve buyers and sellers of luxury and commercial real estate in South Florida. The House & Hive moniker reflects the disruption of the real estate marketplace, focusing on results and client service at the highest level. Orlinksy’s background makes her uniquely qualified to advise clients as they navigate the ever-changing real estate market.

“We’re designing real estate around the way people live today, traveling the world, working from different homes and helping them to find that perfect property to make life happen,” Orlinsky says. “I bring the passion and dedication I’ve brought to all my work to House & Hive.”

Orlinksy’s unique approach allows her to curate the market, see a property’s potential, assess risks, and close the deal, saving clients time, stress and money. She successfully works with athletes, entertainers, celebrities, and business moguls, and makes sure clients receive white-glove service. Keeping this same level of service no matter what price point of property, you are anticipating purchasing. Communication and attention to detail are what drives the success for transactions as she fights to get the best price, with the least stress, and capture the properties for her clientele.

Orlinsky donates much of her free time by volunteering with several charity boards and committees, including sitting as the current president of Ellie’s Army Foundation Board, chairman of the Ellie’s Army Dirty Socks 5K Walkathon, and ambassador to the City of Aventura Police Department CAP committee. From inception of Aventura’s new high school, Cindy was actively involved in the Don Soffer Aventura Charter High School PTC and sat as the president of the Soffer High Foundation Board. Orlinksy has been a proud resident of Aventura for over 30 years and supports the City of Aventura in any way possible. When not showing properties, Orlinksy loves spending time with her two children, amazing husband, and two dogs.

CINDY ORLINSKY / BROKER ASSOCIATE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF LUXURY SALES

For more information: 305-469-3222 or cindy@houseandhive.com

Aventura Specialist

Joseph Castaneda, known by family, friends, and clients as “Joey,” is a real estate broker and statecertified residential real estate appraiser with over 20 years of experience in Aventura and the Williams Island community.

With an unwavering passion for people and real estate, Joey has established himself as the go-to expert in Aventura for real estate sales. He is the Broker/Owner of Haute Team Realty, he and his talented team of real estate agents provide unparalleled advice on the current real estate market and effective marketing strategies by leveraging Joey’s deep real estate market knowledge and advertising expertise. Haute Team’s exceptional online and print marketing, combined with top-notch customer service and negotiation skills, have made Haute Team the most trusted advisor for clients looking to buy, sell, or rent homes in Aventura.

If you are selling, Haute Team gives your home the maximum exposure through their unparalleled marketing reach to buyers who are searching Aventura homes for sale from around the world through targeted Google, Instagram, and Facebook ads. Their marketing has built a database of over 5,000 active users registered on their website, www. HauteTeam.com/Aventura. Additionally, they maintain robust print advertising campaigns via postcards and Aventura Magazine, ensuring comprehensive exposure for Aventura homes for sale.

Joey has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a dedication to personalized service throughout his career. Renowned as a skilled negotiator, he has built a solid reputation for securing the best possible deals for his clients, backed by a proven track record of success.

Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or rent a home in Aventura, Joey and his talented team of real estate agents are the best choice to help you make the right decisions and secure the best deals for you and your family.

JOSEPH CASTANEDA / HAUTE TEAM

1000 E. Island Blvd., Suite 2509, Aventura

For more information: 305-705-6757 or hauteteam.com/aventura

Promotion

Real Estate YOUR STRATEGIC

Advisor

With an eye for detail, a passion for negotiation, 20-plus years of real estate experience, and a background as a seasoned attorney, Claudia Ramirez is your ally in the vibrant real estate market of Sunny Isles and Aventura, Florida.

Ramirez brings a unique perspective to the industry. Her background as an attorney in Venezuela equips her with a deep understanding of contracts, negotiations, and the intricacies of real estate transactions, allowing her to navigate even the most complex deals, ensuring that her clients’ interests are always prioritized and secured.

Ramirez is intimately familiar with the highlights of the Sunny Isles and Aventura neighborhoods. Whether you’re searching for a luxury waterfront property, a familyfriendly home, or a lucrative investment opportunity, Ramirez’s insider knowledge and extensive network enable her to match her clients with ideal properties. As a certified luxury home marketing specialist and pricing strategy advisor, Ramirez brings a competitive, professional, and “street smart” energy to her work, ensuring positive outcomes.

What sets Ramirez apart is that understands that buying or selling a home is one of life’s most significant decisions and approaches each transaction with dedication and integrity, standing by her clients every step of the way.

Ramirez is deeply rooted in the local community. As a longtime resident of Aventura, she takes pride in helping clients discover all these dynamic cities have to offer. An avid marathon runner, Ramirez is also fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian. She understands the importance of contribution and social impact and is actively involved with animal rescue centers, which find forever homes for rescued dogs.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or looking to sell your property for top dollar, Claudia Ramirez is the trusted real estate advocate you can rely on. Contact her today to experience the difference of working with a knowledgeable, passionate, and results-driven professional.

CLAUDIA RAMIREZ / CLAUDIA RAMIREZ GROUP

2980 N.E. 207th St., Suite 801, Aventura

For more information: 786-514-7189 or myfloridabesthomes.com

SIP&SAVOR

BOLD FLAVORS, COOL COCKTAILS, AND LOCAL FAVORITES

Miami Heat

With one big deal restaurant opening after the next, the Esplanade at Aventura has quickly achieved the status of a bona fide dining destination. Among all of those debuts, Amalfi Llama triumphs as a standout, commingling the flavors and cooking techniques of Patagonia and coastal Italy in the best ways imaginable. At the center of this fusion is a massive live-fire grill and wood-burning oven, where the likes of roasted burrata, prime center cut filet, fire-roasted branzino,

seasonal vegetables, margherita pizza, and even burnt cheesecake are prepared to smoky perfection. Sublime selections of house-made pastas, crudos, and fresh salads also feature on the menu, the highlights of which are the citrusy and spicy Hamachi crudo with serrano, tomato, and yuzu; and the decadent truffle tagliatelle with black truffle and Parmigiano Reggiano. A high design setting also speaks to the sizzling love affair between all things Patagonia and Italy with modern farmhouse interiors and colorful pops of art, wine displays aplenty, and a duo of outdoor patios cloaked in trees and surrounding the glow of fire pits. (amalfillama.com) –Paul Rubio

Iberian EXCELLENCE

ONE OF PORTUGAL’S MOST RENOWNED CHEFS BRINGS HIS GASTRONOMIC TALENT SHOW TO MIAMI

BY PAUL RUBIO

Henrique Sá Pessoa, an esteemed celebrity chef in Portugal and owner of two-Michelin star restaurant Alma, makes his debut in the United States with Sereia, a modern, Iberian-influenced, seafoodcentric restaurant in Coconut Grove. The restaurant fills a long-standing void on the

Miami dining scene—already rich in Latin American eateries but sparse in Iberian establishments.

While growing his career, collecting Michelin stars, and embarking on new ventures across Europe, Sá Pessoa says he frequented Miami for both work and fun. Five years in, he deemed the Magic City the optimal locale for importing his talents and ingenuity. “When I started visiting Miami, I fell in love with the beaches, the vibrant culture, and [then] the growing hospitality scene. I realized there was a real opportunity to open a seafood-forward restaurant with bold, new flavors,” he says.

For his big American debut, Sá Pessoa decided to create a menu that plays to the strengths of previous successful endeavors but remains singular. “All my restaurants have different concepts, although they have similar DNA,” he says. “I’ve been coming to Miami for five years now, and I think Sereia is the right fit for the dining scene in Miami right now,” he explains.

With seafood as his muse, Sá Pessoa wows the palate with every bite at Sereia. The experience starts with hand-picked

selections of tinned fish, petiscos (Portuguese tapas), and dressed crudos, including Sá Pessoa’s favorite: vieras marinadas, marinated scallops with tomato and capers and topped with caviar (which he suggests pairing with a chilled glass of Portuguese sparkling wine). Next, mix and match from a half dozen mains plus sizzling rice dishes accompanied by a handful of sides. According to Sá Pessoa, the traditional Portuguese

dish bacalhau à brás (shredded, salted cod, onions and potatoes, all bound with egg) reigns as crowd favorite. On a recent dine, we found the arroz de carabineiro (scarlet prawn rice) and the cataplana de peixe e marisco (a fish and seafood stew with tomatoes, bell peppers, sweet potatoes, and coriander) equally incredible.

While Sereia’s seafood-centric menu may be a grand introduction to coastal Portu-

guese cuisine for some, Florida’s Portuguese community also appears to be emerging from the shadows for a reminder of home (with a Michelin-edged twist). Says Sá Pessoa,“We’ve been getting lots of Portuguese residents from all over Florida coming to see us. Portuguese are very proud of their cuisine. It’s good to feel their passion and pride when visiting Sereia—we’ve been blessed!” (sereia.miami)

Immerse yourself in Portuguese flavors with the gambas ao alhinho and the can’t-miss dessert tarte de queijo.

5 REASONS to Love Casadonna

There’s much to love about Edgewater’s latest buzz-worthy restaurant, from its landmark building to its Riviera-style Italian cuisine.

1. Location

Casadonna occupies the ground floor of the near-century-old Miami Women’s Club, a Mediterranean-revival building in the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

2. Design

Furnishings dazzle across more than 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, dressed predominantly in mid-century inspired blush pink pieces. It’s all framed by lush plant life and, in many instances, overlooks the sparkle of Biscayne Bay.

3. Cuisine

The menu features solid coastal Italian cuisine with standout dishes like langoustine crudo (with orange,

pine nut, and brown butter), tuna carpaccio (with citrus, watermelon, and pickled fresno chili), crispy artichoke (with bagna càuda aioli), and diver scallops (with olive, caper, and tomato puttanesca.)

4. Weekend Brunch

On Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Casadonna offers a multi-course, prix-fixe brunch with familystyle starters, choice of entrée, and a dessert platter for $85 per person (plus tax and service charge).

5. Dock and Dine

Arrive in style via watercraft by pre-reserving a slip with Casadonna’s dockmaster, reachable at 786-869-0158 or marina@casadonnamiami.com. (casadonnamiami.com) —P.R.

DRINK

Our Piña Colada by Sweet Liberty

The piña colada turns 70 years old this July. To celebrate, Sweet Liberty Drinks and Supply Company is sharing the recipe of its remix on the sun-kissed classic. Crafted by the late, award-winning bartender John Lermayer, Our Piña Colada is a bold explosion of tropical flavors in a single frozen cocktail packed with a medley of rums, pineapple, coconut cream, coffee beans, and Pedro Ximénez sherry. The cocktail begins by creating a batch of Sweet Liberty’s house rum blend using the following staples in specific proportions: 50 percent Cruzan Coconut Rum, 25 percent Bacardi Cuatro, and 25 percent Stolen Coffee & Cigarette Rum. Here’s how to create a single serving of the drink in your own home. (mysweetliberty.com) –P.R.

Equipment

Blender

Jigger

1 tiki parasol (for decoration)

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

1 1/2 oz. rum blend

1 oz. pineapple juice

3 oz. coconut cream

2 coffee beans

1 pineapple chunk

1 large scoop of crushed ice

1/2 oz. Pedro Ximenez sherry (as a floater)

1 mint sprig (for garnish)

1 maraschino cherry (for garnish)

In a blender, combine all ingredients (minus the sherry and garnish items) until the ice is crushed and smooth. Pour the cocktail mixture into a glass. Add the sherry float and then decorate with the mint sprig, cherry, and a parasol.

MICHAEL PISARRI

FRANCESCACOVIELLO

MINDFUL MIXOLOGIST

Invitation to Escape

A CLASSIC VACATION COCKTAIL THAT’S PERFECT FOR SUMMER

BY JULES ARON

Few cocktails are more evocative of a summer escapade than the iconic piña colada. Immortalized in song, the refreshing frozen concoction of rum, coconut, pineapple, and lime conjures a tropical oasis in a glass.

In Spanish, piña colada means “strained pineapple,” and a version of the drink (without coconut) appeared in print in a 1922 edition of Travel Magazine. While the piña colada’s true origins remain a bit sticky, with at least three Puerto Ricans—Ramon “Monchito” Marrero Perez, Ricardo Garcia, and Portas Migot—claiming the invention, the blended drink rose to popularity in the 1950s in Puerto Rico, where it was dubbed the national drink in 1978.

Variations on the recipe abound, but this summer, we’ll be celebrating with the 1950s classic.

XPiña Colada

Ingredients

2 oz. white rum

1 oz. coconut cream

1 oz. heavy cream

6 oz. fresh pineapple juice

1/2 cup crushed ice

«

Mix rum, coconut cream, heavy cream, and pineapple juice together in a blender. Add ice and blend for about 15 seconds or until smooth. Serve in a 12-ounce glass and garnish with a fresh pineapple wedge and a maraschino cherry.

HOME

FROM CITY TO SHORE, THE FINE ART OF MIAMI LIVING

INTERIORS

PINECREST PARADISE

When a globetrotting couple hired Miami-based interior designer Maite Granda of Interiors by Maite, they explained that they wanted to transform their 4,700-square-foot Pinecrest home into a sanctuary that was not only perennial and modern, but also practical for their young children and beloved terrier.

During her first visit, the designer saw why the home was in need of a new look. “Nothing had been updated since the original build was completed in 2017,” she says. Granda assessed the home’s largeformat tiles and decided they were worth preserving, but she felt the walls needed to be covered in Armani/ Casa wallcoverings and wood panels.

“The clients asked for an elegant environment with a neutral, soft color palette,” she explains. One tactic to fulfill those wishes was to surround a doorway

leading to the primary bedroom and powder room in dimensional layers with paneling for visual interest, a move that transformed it into an eye-catching feature. During the day, its height and depth make for a mesmerizing aperture. At night, hidden LED lights within the panels turn it into a stunning composition.

For furnishings, the designer turned to Artefacto, Anima Domus, and Minotti. “We selected beautiful and functional furniture with curves. And they’re made with high-performance materials that are easy to clean in case of an accident,” Granda explains.

After nearly a year of design work, the designer’s vision was complete.“In the end, the project exceeded all expectations,” says Granda. “The home feels like a beautiful oasis of tranquility.” (maitegranda.com)

—Riki Altman-Yee

BY DESIGN

PATTERN PLAY

TIPS FOR MIXING AND MATCHING PRINTS IN YOUR HOME DECOR

BY ALENA CAPRA

Whether bold or subtle, prints can go a long way when it comes to amping up the look of a room. They’re a great way to bring in visual interest and add personality. But it can often feel overwhelming to make multiple prints work together—whether in wallcovering, pillows, bedding, rugs, or upholstery. Follow these simple guidelines and you’ll be on your way to mixing and matching patterns like a pro. (alenacapradesigns. com)

BREAK IT UP

PERFECT PAIRING

SIZE MATTERS

Start with one large-scale print and balance it with one or two prints of a smaller scale. Using too many prints of the same size can look busy. Mixing prints of different sizes and scales is always a winning strategy.

Working with three or four prints and patterns is a good rule of thumb. Consider choosing patterns from different categories— for example, a geometric, a stripe, a floral, and an animal print. It may take a little bit of editing as you work to find the right combination, but the goal is to have some visual variety while still creating a harmonious feel.

Bringing in some solid colors to your decor gives the eye a rest and breaks up bolder prints. Pull a dominant color or two from one of the patterns to use as accents. Apply these throughout the space to bring a balance of prints and solids. Or consider adding some textured fabrics to offer an eye rest as well.

PRO TIP

COLOR COORDINATE

IF YOU’RE LOOKING TO MIX SEVERAL PATTERNS TOGETHER IN ONE ROOM, BE SURE TO USE COLORS OF A SIMILAR PALETTE FOR A SEAMLESS FLOW. EXPERIMENT WITH DIFFERENT SHADES OF THE SAME COLOR (FROM LIGHT TO DARK). OR CONSIDER WORKING IN SOME TONE-ON-TONE PATTERNS TO AVOID OVERWHELMING THE SPACE.

Still apprehensive about mixing patterns? A good way to start is by working with items from the same brand (for example, a curated collection of bedding pieces). This way, you’re picking your favorite items from a collection that has already been assembled by a designer to work together harmoniously. Or simply start with one or two boldly patterned accent pillows on a sofa and add to the vignette over time. Don’t be afraid to create an eclectic mix of modern and traditional prints in varying fabrics and colorways.

ELEMENTS

Take it Outside

ELEVATE THE PATIO EXPERIENCE WITH ALFRESCO ACCOUTREMENTS

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

TILE STYLE

Handmade by Miami craftsmen, Luxe Dominoes’ El Rumi rummy tile game ($350) is a modern design take on the family favorite. Luxe Dominoes, Miami (luxedominoes.com)

PROTECTIVE INSTINCTS

A STRONG DRINK

Kartell’s Trama drinkware ($100 for set of four) was inspired by the refined patterns of Japanese pottery but manufactured with durable thermoplastic technopolymer for outdoor imbibing. Kartell, Miami (kartell.com)

STRAIGHT

THROWING SHADE

Keep the sun at bay but the style bright with Tuuci’s Ocean Master M1 Cupola parasol (starting at $2,580). Tuuci, Hialeah (tuuci.com)

FIRE

The Ooni Frya 12 portable, wood pellet pizza oven ($349) has a stone floor that prepares a rustic Neapolitan-style pie in a minute flat. Sur La Table, Miami (surlatable.com)

APP-ILY EVER AFTER

Handmade in Turkey, each enamelware appetizer plate ($27) by Bornn is unique in design. Mrs. Mandolin Design Boutique, Miami (mrsmandolin.com)

According to Paul Fischman, principal of Choeff Levy Fischman Architecture + Design, the goal of this space was to create an intimate and warm, covered, outdoor lounge to enjoy the tropical Miami Beach weather year-round. “A deep, column-free cantilevered roof blocks extreme sun and rain but allows for the prevalent northeast winds to ventilate the hot and humid air of this waterfront refuge,” he says. “Inclusive of a bathroom, barbecue area, rooftop lounge for downtown and Miami Beach vistas, bar, integrated planters, outdoor dining room, and sunken living room with firepit, the user is just feet away from the zero-edge pool, rear garden, waterfront, and main residence, creating seamless continuity between each.” Miami (clfarchitects.com)

LOUNGE SINGER

Handwoven fiber shell makes Cassina’s Esosoft outdoor couch (starting at $14,740) the perfect perch to chat or chill. Cassina, Miami (cassina.com)

GOING GREEN

Plant the Future biophilic designers collaborated with famed potter Jonathan Adler for whimsical planter and plant arrangements (starting at $260). Plant the Future, Miami (plantthefuture.com)

SETTING THE STANDARD

Palm Beach Media Group is a renowned publishing company with print publications representing a mix of proprietary titles and custom magazines, along with digital solutions, serving the entire state of Florida and more.

SOCIAL STUDIES

SEEN ON THE SCENE IN SOUTH FLORIDA

WOMEN ON TOP

WHO: Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos and Sophia Kanavos

WHAT: Women’s Power Series’ Second Annual Women’s Power Breakfast WHERE: The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach

HIGHLIGHTS: More than 200 guests celebrated International Women’s Day, raising $50,000 for Women of Tomorrow to empower at-risk young women.

ALEXANDRA WILKIS WILSON

LYDIA FENET

ELYSZE HELD

DAYSSI OLARTE DE KANAVOS, SOPHIA KANAVOS

PIETRO BELMONTE, JULIA SPILLMAN

JANINE BOOTH

KAROLINA KURKOVA, KINGA LAMPERT, LYDIA FENET

DAYSSI OLARTE DE KANAVOS, JENNIFER VALOPPI

DANA JACOBSOHN

SOCIAL STUDIES

CHILD’S PLAY

WHO: Miami Children’s Museum

WHAT: Be A Kid Again Gala

WHERE: Miami Children’s Museum HIGHLIGHTS: The evening’s Candyland theme offered sweet treats for more than 550 attendees who raised nearly $1 million to support the museum’s educational programs and initiatives. Guests were treated to a perfomance by eight-time Latin Grammy award winner Colombian singer-songwriter Fonseca.

MARIANNE DEVINE, CHERYL AND MICHAEL JESTER, MELISSA NETKIN

AKEISHA AND REGGIE SAINVIL

BRETT GRAFF

LUIS AND JUDITH GARCIA FANJUL

THOMAS ABRAHAM, DAVE BARRY

CRYSTAL AND KIRK WAGAR

ALEX MIRANDA, ROMERO BRITTO

KELLY MELCHIONDO, SCOTT WAGNER

AREAS OF PRACTICE

• EMPLOYMENT-BASED VISAS • INVESTMENT VISAS • EXTRAORDINARY ABILITIES VISAS • LABOR CERTIFICATION • STUDENT VISAS • FAMILY BASED VISAS/ ADJUSTMENTS

ASYLUMS • NATURALIZATIONS • DETENTION AND REMOVAL

VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE • VISAS FOR CRIMINAL ACTS WITNESS • AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS

SLIP/ FALL INCIDENTS • PRODUCTS LIABILITY • PRE/POSTNUPTIAL AGREEMENTS

DIVORCES • PATERNITY/ CUSTODY • CHILD SUPPORT/ ALIMONY

OSCAR ROJAS, C UDIA RODRIGUEZ, GILMA MARIMON, BENJAMIN YU

STEVE AND VIRGINIA WEBER

MONIQUE POPE, CHERYL JESTER, MAYA VANDER

DEBBIE SPIEGELMAN

SOCIAL STUDIES

HIP HOP HOORAY

WHO: Art of Hip Hop WHAT: An Evening with De La Soul’s DJ Maseo and Prince Paul WHERE: Art of Hip Hop, Wynwood HIGHLIGHTS: Attendees celebrated 35 years of De La Soul’s iconic album, 3 Feet High and Rising, which recently made headlines for its upcoming induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

MATTHEW AND SHELLEY GROWNEY

PRINCE PAUL

TED LUCAS, JILL STRADA, ANGIE MARTINEZ, ALAN KET

ALLISON FREIDIN, ALAN KET

DJ DON SHULA, DJ MASEO

DJ MASEO, AMARIS JONES, ISAIAH SMALLS

TED LUCAS, BIG TEACH, DJ MASEO

SOCIAL STUDIES

HELPING HARMONIES

WHO: The Playing For Change Foundation (PFCF)

WHAT: 2024 Impact Awards WHERE: Rubell Museum, Allapattah HIGHLIGHTS: PFCF celebrated its work using music education to create social and economic change by honoring Grammy-nominated artist Ellie Goulding, Grammy-winning DJ and producer Diplo, and Italian music legend Andrea Bocelli and his wife Veronica for their exceptional contributions to music and philanthropy. Guests capped off the night with an epic surprise after-party at Superblue Miami.

SOFI TUCKKER PERFORMING

CYRUS MARINAY, STARR HAWKINS, CHRIS ADAMO, RANDY WOLFSON ADAMO, YES JULZ

PETER TUNNEY

NOTE MARCATO PERFORMING

STARR HAWKINS, YES JULZ, CYRUS MARINAY

JORGE CAMARAZA, GINGER HARRIS

NICK SILVERSTEIN, JOAKIM NOAH

ARCHIE DRURY, NICK SILVERSTEIN, WHITNEY KROENKE SILVERSTEIN, SANDRA AND HOWARD HOFFEN, ANA AND SEAN WOLFINGTON

ARCHIE DRURY, KAROLINA KURKOVA CANDY SANTANA

YOUNG MUSICIANS UNITE PERFORMING

WHITNEY KROENKE SILVERSTEIN, ELLIE GOULDING

DIPLO, JAKE GROSHONG, ELLIE GOULDING

PAMELA SILVA

JOAKIM NOAH, NOTE MARCATO

LISA HOCHSTEIN, JODY GLIDDEN

LAST WORD

ON THE RECORD WITH...

SARAH GREAVESGABBADON

Miami-based Caribbean travel blogger, writer, and TV host Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon is on a mission to share the diverse cultures, lifestyles, and people of the world’s favorite warm-weather destinations. Aventura caught up with Greaves-Gabbadon during a rare layover to learn more about her envyinducing life on the go. (jetsetsarah.com)

—Kristen Desmond LeFevre

«

My full name is…Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon. I live in…downtown Miami. I grew up in… the U.K. and Jamaica. I first fell in love with travel when...as a little girl, I saw a group of glamorous British Airways flight attendants strutting through the lobby of the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston. My first job in the industry was...at the front desk of the Jamaica Pegasus hotel. I got my start as a travel writer by...writing my first article for Air Jamaica’s inflight magazine while I was working in travel PR. My passion for the Caribbean started when...I realized that most people have no idea how diverse the islands are. Now it’s my mission to show them. I am generally traveling...39 weeks out of any given year. My secret to packing light is...picking a palette of two or three colors so everything goes together. I can’t travel without...my iPhone, portable charger, earbuds, and blue eyeliner. When I’m home in Miami, you can generally find me... running at sunrise, browsing at Zara, or at happy hour. One question I get asked a lot is…“Can I carry your bags on your next trip?”

My top three favorite locations I’ve visited so far are...Anguilla, Tokyo, and Antarctica. A meal I still crave from one of my trips is...Jamaican Kentucky Fried Chicken (trust me on this one). My favorite souvenir I’ve brought back from my travels is...a wood carving from the Republic of Gambia. When I have to handle flight delays or other travel snafus, I... head for the nearest lounge to wait it out and/or get assistance. People would be surprised to know that…travel writers are paid very little. My average day is…never average! It usually involves planning for, taking, or

returning from a trip. When I want to relax, I…binge-watch TV, watch the water, or go to a museum. If you’re going to pour me a drink, make it... something fruity, feminine, and Instagrammable. The next big travel project I’m excited about is...Professionally: Visiting India and Greenland for the first time. Personally: Taking my parents on a European river cruise. If I were to write a memoir, the title would be…Now Boarding I probably shouldn’t tell you this, but…although I live in Miami and work in the Caribbean, I’d really prefer to be somewhere with seasons.