traveler and tourist Issue 5 may-jun 2020
the summer issue
editor’s note Welcome to the May-June edition of Traveler and Tourist magazine! Our world has seen many firsts in the last few months and it has been a whirlwind of global events that has brought us all together. What the pandemic did do for our natural environments is give them a breather from our everyday movements, and travel for work or leisure that we all undertake. This pause has given us the time to review our travel habits and work on travel with purpose. While countries and economies are trying to comprehend how best to reopen their spaces to visitors once again, this month’s issue takes a look at a few destinations and some unique ways in which we can still get a taste of travel in our homes by getting just a little creative. As always, the monthly giveaway of a bag full of travel related goodies is up for grabs. To enter, simply sign up to receive the magazine alert directly to your email inbox. If you’ve already subscribed, then you are already entered to win the monthly goody bag…that simple! Additional giveaways are hosted online so follow all the social media channels linked below here to stay abreast of our adventures and other alerts. Do note though that all our winners will receive their goodies July and after to conform to local postal requirements during the pandemic. For now, please enjoy the summer edition of Traveler and Tourist. Stay well. Be safe. Ruksana Hussain
2 www.travelerandtourist.com
editor’s pick Images from across the globe that won at the Sony World Photography Awards.
Editor and Publisher: Ruksana Hussain Creative Director: Parker Shatkin Cover photo: From Nashville, Tennessee Photo by Ruksana Hussain
may/jun 2020
IN THIS ISSUE
special focus
4 5 10 14 16 22 24 28 34 35 38 44
shelf esteem
50
Visual appeal travel diary on our radar health on the go Nashville, tennessee plan a vacation design district Carmel by the sea, california travel trends Carmel by the Sea, pg 28
liquid inspiration Charming cancun, mexico
Special Focus, pg 44
Traveler and Tourist magazine is published online in California, USA and distributed digitally to subscribers worldwide. No portion of this magazine can be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from publisher. All information gathered within is considered to be reliable,but accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed. ISSN 2576-5175.
3
Visual appeal
Renaissance Aruba Reveals Largest Art Installation in the Caribbean The largest interactive art installation by U.S. based artists, Emily Strauss, Victoria Przetak, Francesca Quintano and Tim Rowan of Mural Painters, Inc. in the Caribbean is installed at Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino. The five-story mural is the centerpiece of the luxury resort’s atrium in the Marina Hotel, complementing Renaissance Aruba’s complete redesign and renovation completed in March 2020. The installation was commissioned by Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino and the resort’s design team including dash design and leading art consultants, Indiewalls. The 23-foot by 58-foot hand-painted mural titled “Turbulent Tranquility” was created with water-based latex paint and is accompanied by four WUXGA laser projectors with 6000 ANSI lumens and interchangeable lenses to offer a dynamic and transitional experience. The projectors use light and multidimensional visual effects to activate the immersive installation through projection mapping creating an illusory dreamlike pattern. The combination of technology and art also provide a new platform for events hosted at Renaissance Aruba. From company retreats and destination weddings to local artist exhibits and live music performances, the Atrium art piece can be activated to help enhance memorable moments taking place on property. Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino offers two distinct resort experiences, the lively adult exclusive Renaissance Marina Hotel or a sophisticated one-bedroom suite product at the secluded Renaissance Ocean Suites. The resort is the only property on Aruba to operate its own private island, a 40-acre atoll that is exclusive to guests and serviced by complimentary water taxi.
4 www.travelerandtourist.com
(Image: Renaissance Aruba)
May/jun 2020
globetrotting grains A versatile snack and one loved any place you go popcorn embraces global flavors with gusto. It has grown from its simple butter and salt origins to a re-imagined gourmet snack, capable of capturing the essence of a wide variety of cultures. Chefs use popcorn as the proverbial “blank canvas” adding exotic flavors to showcase their creativity whether for garnish or appetizer. And in kitchens everywhere, this same appeal brings families and friends together for a quick bite or a meal. The following recipes illustrate popcorn’s international appeal, courtesy of the Popcorn Board.
Madras Curry Coconut Popcorn Ingredients 10 cups popped popcorn, unpopped kernels removed 1/2 cup sweetened flaked coconut 1/2 cup sliced almonds 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter 1/2 cup sugar 1/4 cup honey 1 tablespoon madras curry powder (mild) 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt
(Images: Popcorn Board)
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Place popcorn, coconut and sliced almonds in a large bowl; set aside. 2. Heat butter, sugar and honey in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir mixture until it begins to boil. Boil 2 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and stir in curry powder, baking soda and salt (mixture will foam). 3. Pour butter mixture over popcorn mixture and stir until evenly coated. Pour popcorn mixture onto a large, rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Bake 30 minutes, stirring twice during baking time. 4. Cool mixture completely; break into pieces. Store in an airtight container. Yield: about 10 cups
5
travel diary
Chinese New Year Medley Ingredients 6 cups popped popcorn 2 cups Oriental rice cracker mix 3 tbsp. butter or margarine 1 tbsp. soy sauce 1/2 to 1 teaspoon ground ginger (may vary to taste) 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon sesame oil (may vary to taste) Directions 1. Mix popcorn and rice cracker mix together in a large bowl. 2. In a small microwave-safe bowl, microwave butter on HIGH until melted, about 20 seconds. Stir in soy sauce, ginger and oil. 3. Drizzle over popcorn mixture; toss. 4. Spread mixture on a baking sheet and bake in a 300° F oven for 20 minutes, stirring once. Allow to cool, serve or store in airtight container. Yield: 8 Cups
Greek Popcorn Ingredients 2 quarts popped popcorn Cooking spray 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon salt Freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese Directions 1. Place popcorn in large bowl. Spray lightly with cooking spray and toss. Yield: 2 Quarts. 2. Sprinkle remaining ingredients over popcorn and toss again. Serve immediately.
6 www.travelerandtourist.com
May/jun 2020
Indonesian Popcorn Ingredients 5 quarts popped popcorn 1 cup dried banana chips 1/2 cup peanut butter 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1 teaspoon soy sauce 1/4 teaspoon ground garlic 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Directions 1. Combine popped popcorn and banana chips in a roasting pan. 2. In a small saucepan, stir together peanut butter and oil until blended; add seasonings and heat. Pour peanut butter mixture over popped popcorn and toss to coat. 3. Heat in 300-degree Fahrenheit oven for 10 minutes, stirring several times. Yield: About 5 quarts.
Italian Popcorn Ingredients 2 quarts popped popcorn 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh (1 teaspoon dried) oregano 1½ teaspoon fresh (½ teaspoon dried) basil ½ teaspoon minced garlic ½ teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon red chili flakes 1 tablespoon (or to taste) grated Parmesan cheese Directions 1. Place popcorn in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil; toss. 2. In a small bowl, mix oregano, basil, garlic, salt and chili flakes. 3. Sprinkle herb mixture over popcorn and toss again. 4. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese; toss and serve. Yield: 2 Quarts 5. For fewer calories, omit olive oil. Spray popcorn lightly with cooking spray. Sprinkle herbs, garlic, salt and chili flakes over popcorn and toss again. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese; toss and serve.
7
travel diary
Mediterranean Popcorn Ingredients 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained 3 tablespoons olive oil 2 teaspoons dried mixed Italian herbs 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 3 quarts popped popcorn 1/2 cup pine nuts Directions 1. In a food processor or blender, combine first four ingredients. Process to form a paste. 2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in tomato paste. Mix. 3. Drizzle over popcorn and toss to coat evenly. Toss in pine nuts. Serve immediately. Yield: Serves 3
Mexican Popcorn Ingredients 2 quarts popped popcorn 2 tablespoons butter, melted 1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce (or to taste) 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon salt o 2 tablespoons roasted and salted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) Directions 1. Place popcorn in a large bowl. Mix butter and hot pepper sauce and toss with popcorn. 2. Mix remaining ingredients and sprinkle over popcorn. Toss again and serve. Yield: About 2 cups
8 www.travelerandtourist.com
May/jun 2020
Pad Thai Popcorn
Ingredients 1/4 cup butter, 1 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup lime juice, 1 tsp sriracha hot sauce 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp baking soda 8 cups popped popcorn 2 cups unsalted roasted peanuts 1 tbsp freshly grated lime zest Shredded coconut (optional)
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 300 F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. 2. Melt butter in medium saucepan set over medium heat. Add brown sugar, lime juice, hot sauce and salt. Bring to a boil, swirling pan to combine. Once brown sugar has dissolved, boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in baking soda. 3. Toss caramel with popcorn, peanuts, lime zest and shredded coconut (if using). Spread evenly on the prepared pans. Bake, stirring occasionally, for 18 to 20 minutes or until caramel has set. Cool completely and break into clusters. Yield: 9 Cups. Tip: Double the sriracha for extra heat.
Tex-Mex Mix Ingredients 2 quarts popcorn popped in oil 2 teaspoons ground chili powder 2 teaspoons paprika 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 cup cubed Monterey Jack cheese (about 1/4 inch cubes) Directions 1. Keep popped popcorn warm. Mix seasonings together and toss with popcorn. 2. Add cheese and mix thoroughly. Yield: 2 quarts
9
on our radar
Vedic Botanicals Offering an array of organic Ayurvedic body care products, formulas are based in Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old system of health and wellness native to India - 99% of ingredients are USDA certified organic, 1% is wildcrafted. Everything is sourced from U.S.-based companies, packaging is zero-waste and labels are compostable. The jars are reusable or recyclable, and their apothecary workshop is solar powered, so all products are produced using solar energy.
10 www.travelerandtourist.com
on our
May/jun 2020
keetz Plant-based energy bites created by former Michelin-starred pastry chef Katy Peetz for those in search of a healthy snack made with organic ingredients that tastes indulgent. Keetz provides a low sugar, plant-based, high-protein alternative to the traditional health bar. Comes in three different varieties: Cacao for your chocolate fix, Maca for energy, and Turmeric for a nourish and glow option. Chef created these when refined sugar and gluten began to take a toll on her health, so you can rest assured these are tried and tested.
radar
Top picks for your travels from our gifting guide
JAF TEA Premium, handpicked, single origin Ceylon teas from a family-owned and operated brand that still does things the traditional way - from hand picking the leaves at their tenderest to meticulously tasting each batch for the highest quality control. Artisanal small batch process helps preserve the flavor of the tea and by keeping the leaves intact, the essential oils are preserved. JAF TEA’s range includes a number of Classic Black Teas like the strong English Breakfast; fruit and spiceinfused Flavored Black Teas; and refreshing Classic Green Teas both pure and flavored. 11
on our radar
CleanWell Sanitizers Ready to get back in the travel saddle after months of sheltering in place, but know that using a conventional hand sanitizer to protect yourself against germs is bad for your skin as well as the planet? CleanWell hand sanitizers solve the problem because they kill germs botanically using Thymol, an active ingredient derived from the essential oils in various herbs and are free of alcohol, which has drying effects as well as the risk of accidental poisoning to young children. It is gentle on sensitive skin, courtesy of an aloe-and-oats moisturizing formula.
beachsafe Portable Safe Made in the U.S.A., beachsafe is a patentpending, water-resistant, portable safe for travel, that was specifically designed to keep valuables protected from theft. A musthave for the beach, pool, camping, dorm room, and much more. The travel-size safe’s interior compartment is roomy enough for wallets, watches, smartphones, sunglasses, jewelry, keys, headphones, and other valuables you want to keep securely locked. 12 www.travelerandtourist.com
May/jun 2020
Healium As people around the world tap into virtual surroundings to ease their thoughts and emotions during these uncertain times, one app is working on how they have the psychological power to control life on and off the digital screen. Healium is the world’s first virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) simulation powered by brainwaves and heart rate. Calm your anxieties and channel your positive energies to create a beautiful on-screen story. Your thoughts and heart rate control the visuals you see.
Skin Authority’s SkinSuit Protect your skin from the sun and harsh pollution that comes with visiting some of the world’s greatest cities. SkinSuit™ is a translucent, lightweight Reef Safe SPF 50 sunscreen that also shields skin from indoor blue light, infrared radiation as well as urban pollution. Skinsuit Face has sheer fluid that goes beyond sunscreen to protect and restore skin. Skinsuit Lip’s sheer, silky protective layer promotes full, soft, line free lip while protecting against indoor and outdoor environmental damage. 13
health on the go
(Image: Denys Nevozhai\Unsplash)
Keeping Your Energy and Mental Health in Check By Neha O’Rourke
Life is all of a sudden very different. It’s safe to say that nowadays, we’re spending a lot of downtime in our homes and with ourselves. With so much rapid change happening in the news cycle, industries coming to a halt, jobs being either cut, scaled back, or shifted to remote status, uncertainty in the external world is at an extremely high vibration. This is leaving many with a surge of energy that is very likely soaring in multiple directions at once, leaving our emotional and mental health in an entirely new state. On a basic level, some would describe this as feelings of stir crazy, restlessness, boredom, and many more familiar emotions or feelings related to the now. As a coach, I view it as my responsibility to continue to remain front row for women as they make strides in better understanding themselves, reclaiming power (and energy)
14 www.travelerandtourist.com
in their lives, and bring what matters most to them to the forefront. Here are some tips and homework items on how to keep your energy and mental health in check during quarantine: Know that you are in control —and let go of the rest You can’t control what’s going on around you, but you can control your thoughts, actions, and choices: keep up your hygiene, choose where you interact, and take preventative measures. From there, recognize that other things are out of your hands and worrying about that will not serve you. Your worrying will actually cause stress, which we know has negative effects on immunity. Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the
May/jun 2020 pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting. Focus on the things that are in your control and that will be constructive for your energy. Homework: List five things that you are in control of. Suggested categories are health/wellness, personal growth, personal environment, etc. (Ex: “I am in control of my health because I am making a point to eat clean during quarantine”). Know that you ALWAYS have a choice As you move forward in your day, week, career, etc., take stock in the choices that you get to make — to not let frustration or adversity define you. A large part of my coaching is helping others identify and celebrate those choices. We must own our “gremlins” (a term I use in my coaching practice for limiting beliefs) that may be in the way or even prevent you from doing the things you care about. Remember that you have the choice to push past the discomfort, know that you won’t be perfect, learn from your mistakes and always just go for it. The world needs what you have to offer. Homework: List three things you have already subconsciously made choices around. Use an “I” statement. (Ex: “I chose to not allow imposter syndrome get in the way of asking for a promotion that I deserved”). Set realistic goals Remember those New Year’s Resolutions? Well, this is a great time to revisit, replace, and reset your resolutions and goals. For example, if you’ve barely hit the gym, then saying you’re going to go five times a week isn’t realistic. Take the time to really assess what’s going to be realistic and attainable for you. Remember: any action, no matter how big or small means you’re going in the right direction and are closer to your goal than you were before. Homework: Revisit your goals to ensure they are realistic and attainable. Think about what will serve your energy.
(Image: Neha O’Rourke)
Neha O’Rourke is an award-winning Career Coach and Founder of Somewhere In Between Coaching, a coaching company that empowers women around the country and across industries in designing a career and life they love. She has served hundreds of women in avoiding career burnout through her signature 1:1 career coaching programs, research-based blog series, and public appearances. She was recently named “20 on the Rise” in the coaching category by Honeybook and Rising Tide Society. Her work has been featured in The Chic, Yoga Digest, and Fox 32.
15
nashville
nashville ...country music and more
16 www.travelerandtourist.com
May/jun 2020
17
nashville
18 www.travelerandtourist.com
May/jun 2020
DINE & WINE Enjoy dinner at Capitol Grille at The Hermitage - one of the longest running Southern restaurants in the state – for true Southern simplicity and hospitality. In Germantown, grab something sweet at The Cupcake Collection – try one of their daily special cupcakes but if pie is more your style, try a slice at Sweet Creations Pie Bakery where they specialize in pecan pies, but just about any pie is delicious. Consider a slice of pizza at Slim & Husky’s in their laidback atmosphere. In Bellmont/Hillsboro Village, grab some coffee at Fido, and stop by The Grilled Cheeserie for a look at some of the cuisine that makes Nashville so loved. In Wedgewood Houston, sip some whiskey and spirits at the Corsair Artisan Distillery, browse art at David Lusk Gallery, and, of course, taste what happens when scientists meet distilleries at Nashville Craft Distillery. Enjoy lunch at one of Nashville’s most famous Hot Chicken joints, Hattie B’s on Charlotte. A family run restaurant with a few locations in town, Hattie B’s offers heat levels ranging from the mild “Southern” to the “Shut the Cluck Up” spicy insanity. For a coastal-inspired Southern dinner, eat at Henrietta Red for Carolina low-country hospitality that inspires their raw bar, seafood and wood-burning oven creations. Dining spots in Nashville offer a plethora of cuisines and experiences. (Images: Ruksana Hussain)
19
nashville
STAY & PLAY Begin with a visit to Nashville’s Visitor Center for a little introduction to the area before starting out on a Gray Line Trolley Tour of area neighborhoods. Follow it up with the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in the downtown area for state-of-the-art galleries, archival storage, and just a serious deep dive into everything music related to the city. Stroll through the gardens and galleries of Cheekwood - home to 55 acres of charming botanical gardens featuring a sculpture garden and a museum of art. Tour Belle Meade Plantation – an 1853 Greek Revival mansion that was home to English Derby winner Iroquois and renowned as a thoroughbred stud farm (horses like Seabiscuit, War Admiral and Smarty Jones all trace their lineage here). Tour the Frist Center for the Visual Arts, a 24,000-square-foot visual art exhibition center and educational facility located downtown in Nashville’s art-deco former U.S. Post Office building. The Parthenon is the world’s only full-sized reproduction of the Greek Parthenon and houses Athena, the tallest indoor structure in the Western world, and four fine art galleries, including a rotating gallery featuring the museum’s collection of American art. Enjoy a docent-led Architectural Tour providing an inside look at the Centennial Park’s Centerpiece. 20 www.travelerandtourist.com
May/jun 2020
more to do Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is a 1,120-acre National Historic Landmark featuring sprawling grounds and gardens, and over 30 historic buildings including Hermitage Mansion (considered the most accurately preserved early presidential home in the country). The Johnny Cash Museum gives you a chance to see a side of Cash many people didn’t know much about. Featuring authentic and interactive exhibits, the museum tells the story of Cash’s life, from childhood through his entertainment career. In this same building, tour the Patsy Cline Museum, which pays tribute to country music icon Patsy Cline and her short but full career creating music. Pay homage at the historic Ryman Auditorium, regarded as the “Mother Church of Country Music.” The Ryman is a National Historic Landmark renowned for hosting current and rising stars of all musical genres. And if adventure is more your thing then get a birds-eye view of the Fontanel forest at Adventure Works Ziplining, through a canopy course on steel cables which vary in length from 200 to 900 feet. Or cruise along Nashville’s rivers or lakes on a stand up paddleboard with Paddle Up. Plan your visit: www.visitmusiccity.com Left: Lobby at The Hermitage Hotel, above: Parthenon, top: Belle Meade Plantation.
21
plan a vacation
Amtrak Celebrates 49th Anniversary
22 www.travelerandtourist.com
may/jun 2020
For almost five decades, Amtrak has taken America’s passenger rail customers where they need and want to go. Formally known as the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, Amtrak consolidated the services of more than a dozen railroads into a true national system when it first started. And, while it celebrates this anniversary during an unprecedented time in history, it continues to provide a vital service to customers, many of whom are medical professionals and first responders. On the occasion, Amtrak President and CEO Bill Flynn discussed the importance of intercity passenger rail and how they continue to provide exceptional service to the American public during this time of crisis. On May 1, 2020 Amtrak celebrated its 49th anniversary! When traveling next and planning for popular holidays, Amtrak offers some travel tips to ensure a smooth trip during the heavy travel season: Buy tickets early: Tickets will sell out quickly. Travelers can easily purchase tickets using Amtrak.com, or on the Amtrak mobile app. Avoid the Rush, Arrive Early: Travelers are encouraged to arrive 45 minutes before departure. Enhanced Experience: Amtrak trains feature the freedom to use electronic devices (no “airplane mode”), large spacious seats, ample leg room and no middle seat. 2+2 = Free: Amtrak has the friendliest baggage policy in the travel industry. Travelers can bring two bags and two carry-ons, up to 150 pounds for free! Travel with Your Furry Friend: For only $26, cats and small dogs (20 pounds or less) are welcome for trips up to seven hours on most routes. Check Train Schedules: Check holiday train schedules and status before arriving at the station on Amtrak.com, Track Your Train (on Amtrak.com), or using the Amtrak mobile app. Carry Photo ID: Travelers are required to show travel documents and a valid photo ID. Safety First: If you see something, say something. Report any suspicious activity or unattended items to an Amtrak employee or member of the Amtrak Police Department at (800) 331-0008, by calling 911, or by sending a text to APD11 from a smartphone, or to 27311 from a standard cell phone. Travelers can easily connect directly with Amtrak before, during and after their travels: Download the Amtrak app for easy booking and travel updates. To connect with customer service follow Amtrak on Facebook and @Amtrak on Twitter. For real time service alerts, follow @AmtrakNECAlerts for updates within the Northeast Region and @AmtrakAlerts for any other alerts outside of that region. Share your Amtrak experience on all social media channels by tagging @Amtrak and using the hashtag #Amtrak in their posts. (Image: Amtrak)
23
design district
Spruce Up Your Home Sometimes the smallest changes can make the biggest difference. As we begin to see glimpses of summer, we can feel reinvigorated just by knowing that warmer days are right around the corner. Now is the perfect time to elevate our state of mind and infuse positivity, color, and light into every corner of our home, for that which we see, we also absorb internally. This year open up your home to inspiring and unique designs. Transform your interiors by adding pops of color and gently woven textiles. Use these items on a daily basis, build memories with your loved ones, and treasure them for years to come.
For the Bathroom: Sabahar Tana Ethiopian Towel Handmade in Ethiopia using an interlocking warp and weft technique for durability, designer Sabahar has spun, washed, dyed, and woven every towel with special care and skill. The striped pattern is reflective of the contemporary Ethiopian design. Measures 38� x 62�, using 100% locally sourced eco-friendly cotton and dyed with AZO-free color.
24 www.travelerandtourist.com
May/jun 2020
For the Kitchen: VERVE CULTURE Turn your kitchen into the most visited room in your home with artisan tools and tastes that can create memorable experiences with friends and family. The brand’s concept is about culture exploration and is not product specific. Shop from Mexico and Thailand collections for iconic items and traditional tastes.
Dance Hall Queen Salt and Pepper Shaker Set Baughaus’ salt and pepper shakers are a nod to the dance hall queens of Jamaica. Handmade using porcelain and 18k gold. Only food-safe glazes are used. With free shipping throughout the US, 54kibo’s home decor collection includes contemporary African design pieces for the home that are handmade and one-of-a-kind.
For the Living Room: TEEMA BLANKETS Nothing cozies up your living space like an incredibly soft blanket. Teema offers a quality twist on the traditional blanket with flat woven Turkish textiles. All blankets are made by independent generational weavers in small mountain towns located in western Turkey. Drape this beautiful authentic blanket over any piece of furniture and watch the room come to life.
(Images: Provided by respective brands)
25
design district
Gabi Ethiopian Throw Blanket Wrap yourself in lightweight luxury on a chilled summer night. Sabahar throws elegantly evoke traditional Ethiopian geometric textile designs while maintaining a contemporary and minimalist aesthetic, subtly contrasting twocolor combinations on each throw blanket. This lightweight intricately woven cotton throw is skillfully hand-spun and loomed by local artisans in Ethiopia.
Wewe Blue Pillow 100% cotton cover with 100% duck feather inner. Velvet backing. Bring a splash of blue and a dash of character to your interior with this lush banana leaf print design. Reminiscent of the Aburi Botanical Gardens in Ghana, this nature-inspired print will give your interior a dose of summer all year round and will add a pop of color to any sofa or loveseat.
For the Home Office: Eggtronic Wireless Charger Uncomplicate your life with cables and reach for the wireless charger that also beautifies your space. Simply set your phone on the stone for fast, 10-watt charging capabilities. The simple elegance of genuine stone meets smart technology. Made with real stone: black marble, white marble and travertine options available.
26 www.travelerandtourist.com
May/jun 2020
Diani Natural Basket An elegant storage solution. Handwoven in Kenya, this natural fiber basket is made from locally sourced sisal and can be used as a beautiful and functional accent piece in any room of the home for storage, but also light enough to transport, making it a great accessory for a day at the beach. Measures 15” x 15”, using natural fibers and tan leather rim and handles.
For the Bedroom: Sea Witch Botanicals A healthy world starts at home, and no company understands this better than Sea Witch Botanicals. Purify your space with all-natural incense. For those who love a smoky, sensual mystique in the room, incense varieties are just as clean burning. They feature charcoal and nonGMO essential oils. Presenting a complete line of all-natural, essential oil-based, air-purifying incense that won’t cause migraines.
For the Entrance Way: Kazi Feel right at home soon as you walk through the door with home décor from Kazi. The company is on a mission to create the world’s most beautiful home décor, handmade for you by master craftsmen in rural Africa. Not only does Kazi add life to your space but it empowers artisans to weave a better story for themselves.
27
carmel by the sea
28 www.travelerandtourist.com
May/jun 2020
Pure Inspiration by the Ocean: Carmel by the Sea (Images: Ruksana Hussain)
29
carmel by the sea
STAY & PLAY Hofsas House Hotel The Bavarian inspired property is owned and operated by the Theis family and located within walking distance of everything you will be doing while here – the beach, restaurants, art galleries, shops and tasting rooms. Park here and you will probably not use your car again unless you are planning on taking a short drive over to Monterey, Pebble Beach, Big Sur or Pacific Grove. The rooms have some unique amenities such as fireplaces, private balconies, wet bars, kitchens and patios. The heated swimming pool and decks with views are a great addition. The welcoming mural painted at the entrance by Maxine Albro is one you cannot miss. For an additional charge, you can also arrange to have in your room: wine, champagne, chocolate or cheese pairings, as well as take advantage of special rates at local spas and golf courses through Hofsas House partnerships. Unplug by the sea by disconnecting from everything else. Start the day with a slow walk along Carmel Beach, relax along the scenic Bluff Path, or head for the Mission Trail Nature Preserve. Take a mindful break at centrally located Devendorf Park or Piccadilly Park, discover the hidden deck at First Murphy Park or savor the natural beauty of Lost Hills Park. There is always the Carmel River State Beach to slip away to for some me-time and focus on the inner self.
30 www.travelerandtourist.com
may/jun 2020 For an active session, whether run, walk or hike, you can find an option for any degree of fitness among the many trails, paths and loops here. Recommendations include Mission Trail Nature Preserve, Point Lobos State Reserve, and Asilomar State Beach. Within a short drive are a few other attractions: Carmel Mission Basilica, 17-mile Drive at Pebble Beach (a favorite and highly recommended for that magical sighting of bunnies and deer), Carmel Valley and Monterey Bay Aquarium. The 17mile drive in Pebble Beach is considered one of the most scenic drives in California. You can use the app online for your own guided tour but some highlights include The Inn and Links at Spanish Bay, Seal Rock picnic area and Pescadero Point.
31
carmel by the sea
DINE & WINE The Wine Walk is an ongoing self-paced, self-guided tour to 14 of the
local tasting rooms. You can get a passport to use across all the venues and 10 of the 14 provide wine walk flights as a perk. The best part is the passport does not expire so you can use it across months if you like. Consider stopping by Blair Estate Wines or Scheid Vineyards for a sip. Dining options here are plenty but beware no known chain restaurants are in the area so you might have some competition vying for your attention with several local restaurants offering signature preparations. At Village Corner Carmel Bistro, outdoor seating and cozy décor calls for a relaxed dining affair. Mediterranean-inspired fare here features pastas and soups but also meatloaf and lamb chops from the fired grill. For picnic lunches or a little mixed bag of goodies, 5th Avenue Deli and Catering Co is a cute neighborhood spot with an array of ready-to-eat options made in-house as well as packaged gourmet products. A handy basket of sandwiches, fruit and cookies should keep you company on the beach. For a touch of the area’s European influences, head to dinner at Lugano Swiss Bistro where you can enjoy Swiss, German and French delicacies, including fondue, pastetli, schnitzel and more. The décor gives you the rustic mountain café feels, and staff are around to encourage you to try the signature dishes on the menu, some of which cannot be found for miles around. A completely unexpected surprise and somewhat under the radar location is Aabha Indian Cuisine, where the lunch buffet welcomes the weekend masses. The avocado kale chaat and chipotle chicken tikka are perfect fusion dishes as are the walnut chicken korma and mint masala salmon. Elevated dining is what’s promised, and they deliver all the way.
32 www.travelerandtourist.com
may/jun 2020
INSIDER INFO History buffs be warned, there is plenty to pique your interest here and this could mean a longer visit. Here’s a sampling: The City Hall was originally a church, the Carmel Bakery and Coffee Company was built in 1899 but has always been a bakery, and the Fire Station originally built in 1937 remains a fire station to this day. You can find an interactive map and complete historic timeline online here if you’d like to plan your stops ahead. There are more than 40 charming courtyards and secret passageways dotting north and south of Ocean Ave that would be any photographer’s dream to discover as you walk around the area. And while at it, take note that none of the streets have addresses. Homes have names instead and it’s considered bad luck to change those. Another claim to fame for the area was that Clint Eastwood was once the mayor here and introduced many ordinances to bring the community together, so they do have that entertainment industry connection of sorts. And if you go to City Hall, ask for the high-heel permit! (Free of cost but wouldn’t that be a fun memory)
33
travel trends
Explore and Dream with Expertly Curated Travel Literature Website Built and maintained by seasoned travel expert Alan Josephs, A5 Travel Books offers hundreds of curated travel-writing selections from a wide array of authors. Entries are conveniently categorized and range from classic favorites like Mark Twain and John Steinbeck, through travel-writing icons like humorist Bill Bryson and the legendary Paul Theroux. The site also features an extensive Best Travel Guides section, conveniently sorted by world location to help future travelers plan their own bucket-list explorations. Take a pick from these choices! Classics: Titles like curator-favorite, Travels with Charley by John Steinbeck. The famous tale follows Steinbeck and his faithful poodle companion Charley on an illuminating trip through 1960s America. Exploration and Adventure: Stories like the nail-biting firsthand account by best-selling writer Jon Krakauer, Into Thin Air. Poignantly relive the May 1996 tragedy that saw five climbers dead in one day on the unforgiving frozen slopes of Mount Everest. Funny: Books like chef legend Anthony Bourdain’s candid, hilarious and exceptionally written A Cook’s Tour: Global Travel Novels (Fiction): Travel-themed fiction is far older than the novel and has stood the test of time. Examples include Yann Martel’s popular 2001 book, The Life of Pi; telling the tale of a 16-year-old Indian kid and a 450-pound Bengal tiger together in a lifeboat while lost at sea. Travel Books for Kids: Kids are explorers at heart, a fact famously celebrated in the beloved Dr. Seuss lyric classic, Oh, the Places You’ll Go. Begin your own literary world tour HERE, spending stay-athome downtime exploring dozens of entries in an enormous collection of curated explorers. (Images:Allyson Josephs)
34 www.travelerandtourist.com
may/jun 2020
Flying Embers Hard Kombucha is a delicious, sparkling probiotic tea, handcrafted with an adaptogen root blend of turmeric, ginger and astragalus. The dry fermentation process gives the hard kombucha a perfectly balanced natural sweetness with zero sugar, and all the amazing flavors are certified organic, gluten-free and vegan. Flying Embers is also the world’s first shelf-stable probiotic hard kombucha featuring live probiotics and native kombucha bacteria. Enjoy these cocktails you can craft at home or request at venues. Recipes by Mixologist Jonathan Stanyard. (Images: Flying Embers)
Crafting Cocktails with Kombucha
Booch Buck 1.5oz Bourbon/Rye .5oz Lime Juice Angostura 2oz Ginger & Oak Flying Embers Kombucha Lime/mint/ginger garnish optional 35
liquid inspiration
Bee’s Blossom 1.5 ozs Ocho Plata ½ oz 1:1 Honey Syrup (equal parts honey and water) ½ oz Fresh Lime Juice ¼ oz Aperol 2-3 ozs of Flying Embers “Lemon Orchard”
Kombucha Mai Thai 1.5oz Silver Rum, 1oz Orange Juice Sink .5oz Grenadine into bottom of glass *Ace ice and shake* *Pour over ice*
Float the following: 2oz Pineapple Chili Flying Embers Hard Kombucha .5oz Amaretto and .5oz Dark Rum Garnish with Pineapple Slice and Luxardo Cherry with stem
Combine all ingredients except Hard Kombucha in a shaker tin, add ice, shake vigorously and strain into an ice filled highball or pint glass. Top with Flying Embers “Lemon Orchard” and garnish with a fresh peel of orange (orange twist style).
36 www.travelerandtourist.com
Kombucha Paloma 1.5oz Tequila or Mezcal 2 dashes Grapefruit Bitters *Ace ice and shake* Rim glass with salt *Pour over ice* Float 2oz Grapefruit Thyme Flying Embers Hard Kombucha Garnish with thyme sprig
may/jun 2020 Fermented 75 1.5oz London Dry Gin .5oz Lemon Juice .5oz Earl Grey Tea Syrup 2oz Lemon Orchard Flying Embers Kombucha 1oz Champagne Lemon twist garnish optional
Kombucha Mule 1.5oz Vodka, 2 dashes Angostura Bitters .5oz fresh lime juice *Add ice and shake* Float 3oz Ginger and Oak Flying Embers Hard Kombucha Garnish with pinch of cinnamon, dehydrated lime wheel, and mint spring **Serve in copper mug with metal straw.
Booch Bramble 1.5oz Bourbon/Rye .5oz Lemon Juice .75oz Simple FLOAT of 2oz Ancient Berry Flying Embers Kombucha Raspberry/lemon garnish optional *Served on the rocks in a low ball
Kombucha Smash 1.5oz Burbon/Rye .5oz Lemon Juice Muddle Mint (or just bruise it with ice) 2oz Lemon Orchard Flying Embers Kombucha Mint/lemon garnish optional *Served like a Whiskey Smash.
37
cancun, mexico
Cancun Charms with culture and cuisine 38 www.travelerandtourist.com
may/jun 2020
39
cancun, mexico
The mention of Cancun might conjure images of white sandy beaches and blue ocean waters. Much like the ads you see for it everywhere. And that much is certainly true. If there is one part of the city you will undeniably fall in love with, it’s got to be the beaches. Cancun is a central destination from where you can opt to head for other areas or stay put and simply cherish the beauty of the ocean views all along the coastline. When it comes to ecotourism and nautical activities, you have the pick of the party right here. Add to that more than 15 golf courses, and you are in as good a place as any to enjoy your vacation. No wonder then that this is where the majority of international traffic flocks to in the country, aside from Mexico City. Archaeological zones here, for those so inclined, include Tulum, Muyil, Kohunlich, El Meco and El Rey. Also stop by the Cancun Mayan Museum for a significant collection of Mayan artifacts regarding the state, the civilization and other exhibits. For local trips, choose from Isla Mujeres or Perto Morelos. The former is considered one of Mexico’s natural and cultural treasures, and a perfect combination of the beauty of the Caribbean and the heritage of the Mayan civilization in a lush tropical forest. The latter is a quiet fishing village that’s about a 20-minute drive from Cancun. As the coast is part of the National Marine Park, it’s a great setting for scuba diving, snorkeling and fishing. Swimming in cenotes is pretty popular here. The downtown or city area (ciudad) gives you a few options for leisure including modern hotels, gastronomic experiences, bars, malls, handicrafts markets and more.
40 www.travelerandtourist.com
may/jun 2020
STAY You will find that almost all hotels are located along the Zona Hotelera or Hotel Zone in a row, and the only difference is pretty much going to be the brand and amenities that you opt for, plus the beach views. At least 50+ hotels are situated here. Recommended spots are Hotel Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun, Hotel Haven Riviera Cancun and Hotel Reflect Krystal Grand Cancun. Hotel Fiesta Americana Condesa is an all-inclusive resort where all your activities can be addressed onsite. Whether the ocean or the poolside, you can lounge around endlessly. Their breakfast spread is quite the morning event to look forward to and entertainment programming both indoors and out is among the best on offer. Most hotels also give you excursion options to choose from so read ahead for some of those highlights.
41
cancun, mexico
42 www.travelerandtourist.com
play
Head for an excursion at the Nizuc Reef Tour–Aqua World where a cruise through the mangroves takes you to the colorful reef where you can snorkel or see the reef on board the Subsee Explorer and admire underwater sculptures. At The Westin Resort & Spa, you can experience a temazcali experience, which is a traditional Mayan steam bath. It is done outdoors, in a dome-shaped structure and involves a coal fire in an enclosed space so where it might be claustrophobic for some, it can be equally cleansing for others. Follow the instruction of your shaman and you will enjoy the hour or so-long time spent within the enclosure, a metaphor for a mother’s womb where you enter with all our worries and leave them behind when you return to the world, cleansed and renewed. There is some chanting involved and also rubbing certain plant-based substances over your person but an experience you might not have had anywhere else. Another option for an excursion is Xenotes where you are on a guided tour to four cenotes that include other activities like kayaking, snorkeling, rappelling, ziplining, tubing and more. This is a fullday event with lunch provided and a bus load of jolly strangers to boot. All care is taken to accommodate every level of active visitor, and every effort made to include you in the water-based activities even if water isn’t your best friend. At the La Isla Shopping Center, you can ride La Gran Rueda Ferris Wheel, that gives you great views of the city, especially if you happen to be there around sunset. A short ride over is Luxury Avenue with some of the top luxury brands in-house. Definitely stop by the jewelry stores here for the range of offerings catering to local and international buyers of gold and silver.
may/jun 2020
dine While all hotels offer dining options aplenty catering to most any palate preference, one gastronomic experience that you must set aside time for is Tora/ Rosa Negra where just the dÊcor as you enter will convince you that you made the right choice to dine here. The interiors are tastefully done to prep you for the dining experience that’s about to impress. The quality of food and the presentation are a class apart. A tribute to Latin American cuisine, each course is a treat to the senses and the staff ensure every morsel is one you will cherish long after you leave.
(Images: Ruksana Hussain)
43
special focus
World Photography Organisation Announces Overall Winners in Prestigious Sony World Photography Awards 2020
44 www.travelerandtourist.com
(Image: Conor Luddy|Unsplash)
may/jun 2020
Image Name: VI - Of the Formalism I series Photographer Name: José De Rocco Year: 2020 Image Description: Series Name: Formalism I Series Description: As a graphic designer, I’m drawn to bold colours and shapes. Formalism I is the result of three years walking the streets and searching for beauty in places that most people pass by. I tend to take a record shot when I spot something interesting, and then return repeatedly until I get what I need. Form is the main theme for this series, but colour is really important too. Most of the pictures were taken in Argentina, except one that was made in Uruguay. Copyright: © José De Rocco, Argentina, 3rd Place, Professional, Architecture, 2020 Sony World Photography Awards
Image Name: Arena Tower - Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Photographer Name: Jonathan Walland Year: 2020 Image Description: Series Name: Structures Series Description: For me, minimalism is a way of enabling clarity. I approach modern architecture in a way that eliminates distraction, keeping the viewer focused on the purest elements of photography: form, light, texture and the way that these components amalgamate. This body of work required rigid consistency in order to document the structural forms of each building and demonstrate the different and unique way in which light interacts with each structure.   Copyright: © Jonathan Walland, United Kingdom, 2nd Place, Professional, Architecture, 2020 Sony World Photography Awards
45
special focus
The World Photography Organisation’s overall winners in the prestigious Sony World Photography Awards 2020 are announced and the images from across the globe are stunning. The Photographer of the Year title is awarded to Pablo Albarenga (Uruguay) for his series Seeds of Resistance. Also announced are the ten category winners of the Professional competition alongside 2nd and 3rd place as well as overall winners of the Open, Student and Youth competitions. Winning photographers in the Professional competition are selected by a panel of expert judges for submitting an outstanding body of work of five to ten images, ranging from personal subjects and observations to headline news and little known but critical issues. Categories included architecture, creative, discovery, documentary, environment, landscape, natural world and wildlife, portraiture, sport, and still life. Other awards included Open photographer,
46 www.travelerandtourist.com
Image Name: Alexei N Photographer Name: Álvaro Laiz Year: 2020 Image Description: <p>Alexei N, a Chukchi reindeer herder, poses for a long-exposure portrait at a reindeer herder camp in Chukotka, Russia. Alexei N is one of the descendants of a small group of hunter-gatherers from Central Asia who, 15,000 years ago, stepped into the unknown equipped with little more than furs and bone-made bows, following herds of mammoths and reindeers.</p> Series Name: Atlas from the Edge Series Description: “Can a man sell a piece of his motherland? Can a man sell a piece of his body? Even for the highest price? No, he cannot! Or he will cease to be a human being.” Yuri Rytkheu The Chukchi have lived along the Bering coasts for thousands of years. Their traditional lifestyle has evolved according to their mode of subsistence, showing how inhabitant and habitat are not two different entities, but in fact different sides of the same entity. This series explores the concept of natural symmetry, and reflects on the human ability to create fictions, and how these fictions (or myths) explain and modify the objective world in sophisticated ways. It also raises questions about the Anthropocene era and how humans relate to themselves and other species. Copyright: © Álvaro Laiz, Spain, 2nd Place, Professional, Environment, 2020 Sony World Photography Awards
may/jun 2020
Student photographer, Youth photographer and Outstanding Contribution to photography. Produced by the World Photography Organisation, the internationally acclaimed Sony World Photography Awards is one of the most important fixtures in the global photographic calendar. Now in its 13th year, the free-to-enter Awards are a global voice for photography and provide a vital insight into contemporary photography today. Image Name: Chantal Photographer Name: Denis Rouvre Year: 2020 Image Description: <p>My name is Chantal, I am 30 years old and I live in South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo. I was harvesting cassava leaves when I saw them. They were about 20, dressed as soldiers. One of them started to take my clothes off. He laid me down on the ground. He didn’t even spread a loincloth. I saw the man take off his pants. This man got on me and got into my vagina. When he started raping me, I started to cry. As he was coming out of me, I saw another one undressing. He also penetrated me and started raping me. The others were still standing, spinning their weapons. When he was finished, another one started taking his clothes off. When I realised what they were doing, it sent me crazy. I lost myself. I saw with my eyes, but my brain was no longer there.</p> Series Name: Unsung Heroes Series Description: Unsung Heroes is a project about violence against women around the world. In 2019, with support from international humanitarian association Médecins du Monde, I visited five continents and met more than 100 victims of violence. The women agreed to testify, their faces uncovered, in front of my camera. Some subjects had suffered violence linked to displacement following the war in Syria and in Colombia, others had survived domestic abuse, or the use of collective rape as a weapon in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Still more had faced moral violence, sexual exploitation, or discrimination against gender identity in Nepal, Cameroon and Uganda. The women I met are shadows that enter the light. The bruises and creases on the surface of their skin tell a story. Added to this are the voices, the words, the intimate experiences of violence that were shared. I wanted to show the suffering experienced by these women, but also their strength and resilience – in short, their ability to get up and fight again.
For both established and emerging artists, the Awards offer world-class opportunities for exposure of their work. The Awards additionally recognise the world’s most influential artists working in the medium through the Outstanding Contribution to Photography Awards; previous recipients include Martin Parr, William Eggleston and Nadav Kander. The Awards showcase the works of winning and shortlisted photographers at a prestigious annual exhibition at Somerset House, London. The World Photography Organisation is a global platform for photography initiatives. Working across up to 180 countries, the aim is to raise the level of conversation around photography by celebrating the best imagery and photographers on the planet. They build lasting relationships with both
Copyright: © Denis Rouvre, France, 2nd Place, Professional, Portraiture, 2020 Sony World Photography Awards
47
special focus individual photographers as well as industryleading partners around the world. The World Photography Organisation hosts a year-round portfolio of events including the Sony World Photography Awards, one of the world’s leading photography competitions, and PHOTOFAIRS, leading international art fairs dedicated to photography.
Some of those award-winning visuals are shared here for you to enjoy our world through the lens of these talented professionals. The entire collection is available for the public to view on the World Photography Organisation website.
Image Name: Senegalese Wrestlers 3 Photographer Name: Ángel López Soto Year: 2020 Image Description: Series Name: Senegalese Wrestlers Series Description: Wrestling has become the number one national sport in Senegal and parts of The Gambia. It belongs to a larger West African form of traditional wrestling (known as Lutte Traditionnelle) and is more popular than football. Senegalese wrestlers practice two forms of the sport: Lutte Traditionnelle avec frappe and Lutte Traditionnelle sans frappe (international version). The sport has become a means of social ascendance, making some athletes millionaires. Fights have been known to attract audiences of around 50 thousand in a stadium. For many, it’s a slice of African life, tradition and culture, in which there is a mix of animist and Muslim beliefs. These pictures show wrestlers training on a beach in Dakar. Copyright: © Ángel López Soto, Spain, Category Winner, Professional, Sport, 2020 Sony World Photography Awards
48 www.travelerandtourist.com
may/jun 2020
Image Name: Ice Fishing Hut XIV Photographer Name: Sandra Herber Year: 2020 Image Description: Series Name: Ice Fishing Huts, Lake Winnipeg Series Description: Winters in Manitoba, Canada, are long and often bitterly cold. When the temperature drops, and thick ice forms, lakes and rivers in the province play host to some amazing folk architecture in the form of ice fishing huts. These huts, shacks or permies (as they are called in Manitoba) must be transportable, protect their occupants from the elements and allow access to the ice below for fishing. Once these requirements have been met, the owners are free to express their personalities in the shape, structure and decoration of their huts - they are large or small, decorated or plain, luxurious or utilitarian and everything in between. I captured these images on Lake Winnipeg in December 2019. My hope for this series, which is a continuation of work I started in 2018, is to showcase the quirky charm of these huts by presenting a select few in a typology. The typology - showing the huts framed in the same, minimalist style and in the same lighting allows the viewer to notice similarities in function and uniqueness in form, as well as to display these utilitarian structures as beautiful works of art. &nbsp; Copyright: Š Sandra Herber, Canada, Category Winner, Professional, Architecture, 2020 Sony World Photography Awards
49
shelf esteem
shelf esteem Additions to your reading list as you dream up your next journey
(Images: Sarah Baxter and Amy Grimes)
50 www.travelerandtourist.com
Wander off the beaten track to uncover the world’s most secret destinations: discover an ancient gateway to the Mayan underworld, a mysterious underwater monument sunken off the Ryukyu Islands in Japan or a prehistoric village covered for centuries by a huge sand dune in the Orkney Islands. Travel journalist Sarah Baxter’s evocative words (and illustrations by Amy Grimes) instantly transport you to 25 of the world’s most obscure places. From remote locations that visitors must trek and wade just to catch a glimpse of, to forgotten cities only recently revealed and places purposefully hidden as sanctuaries from persecution, each destination has a very human story at its heart. Savor a moment to delight in the serenity and seclusion of the secret escapes collected in this beautifully illustrated guide, full of surprise, wonder and sights otherwise unseen. Hidden Places in the USA and CAN include The Green Mill, Havasu Canyon, Plymouth Church of the Pilgrims, and Spirit Island. Other books in the Inspired Traveler’s Guide series include Spiritual Places, Literary Places, and Mystical Places.
Click here
may/jun 2020
to subscribe to the magazine and enter to win our fabulous monthly giveaway filled with travel goodies!
51 (Image: Drew Hays| Unsplash)
Š Traveler and Tourist may-jun 2020
