March/April 2022 Vol. 10 Issue 2 | $5.99
SPRING AWAKENING
Available in store spring summer 2022
ITALIAN STYLE MODERN
STORIED
1269 Coast Village Road, Montecito CA
ROMANTIC |
CAPTIVATING
805.563.2425 | @allorabylaura | allorabylaura.com
Retreat to Rosewood Miramar Beach’s chic and sophisticated cocktail bar serving handcrafted libations with a story to tell, delectable hors d’oeuvres, and live music every Thursday through Saturday.
LIVE MUSIC BY THURSDAYS Pearls & Cocktails FRIDAYS Brandon Wattz SATURDAYS The Mixtape
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T H E F I N E ST M O N T E C I TO & S A N TA B A R B A R A H O M E S
Cristal Clark
840 TORO CANYON ROAD | SANTA BARBARA Pa nora m i c O ce a n , Is l a n d & Co a s tl i n e V i e w s 4 Be d + O f fi c e , 3. 5 B a th Re s i d e n c e A p pro x i ma te l y 10 Ac r e s o f f e r e d a t $ 5, 3 95, 0 0 0
T H E # 1 B R O K E R A G E I N S A N TA B A R B A R A C O U N T Y w i t h ov e r $ 4 ,0 0 0 ,0 0 0 ,0 0 0 s o l d i n 2 0 2 1
IS PLEASED TO RECOGNIZE...
C R I S TA L C L A R K E A S T H E # 1 A G E N T L O C A L L Y & G L O B A L L Y, Y E A R A F T E R Y E A R * WITH OVER $415 MILLION SOLD IN 2021 7 3 C l o s e d Tr a n s a c t i o n s , R e p r e s e n t i n g 4 3 S e l l e r s & 3 0 B u y e r s
C R I S TA L C L A R K E 8 0 5. 8 8 6 .9378
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Cristal@Montecito-Estate.com
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w w w. M o n t e c i t o - E s t a t e . c o m
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D R E # 0 0 96 8247
©2022 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. *Cristal ranked the #1 individual agent based on sales volume & units in the Santa Barbara MLS & the #1 individual agent worldwide for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices based on production for 2020 and 2021. Based on data as of 12/31/2021.
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TIMELESS CLASSICS FOR THROUGHOUT
THE YEAR
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MARCH/APRIL 2022 Leisure | Corporate | Entertainment
Editor in Chief & Publisher OTTOCINA RYAN Director of Photography SILAS FALLSTICH Art Director JOHANNA SMEDS Deputy Editor & Marketing Manager DELANEY WILLET Graphic Designer EILEEN BETTINGER Writers EILEEN BETTINGER, ANNA CONSTANTINO, SOFIA DEEB, KIM HASHEMI, ELIZA KRPOYAN, ALEXANDRA LEE, EMMA McDONNELL, ALEXANDRA SHAROVA, KARA THOMPSON, CELINE WALLACE Photographers JORDAN DONOHOE, JON PREMOSCH Intern INGRID SIGFSTEAD
ON THIS COVER
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Santa Barbara Life & Style Magazine is published by Santa Barbara Life & Style, Inc. 26 West Mission Street #5, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 For distribution, advertising and other inquiries: info@sblifeandstyle.com santabarbaralifeandstyle.com
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CONTENTS March/April 2022
IN EVERY ISSUE
FASHION
16 | BEHIND THE SCENES
52 | SPRING SHOWERS
18 | KITCHEN RESCUE
60 | BL ANK SPACE
20 | THE ART OF LIFE
68 | KARAT AND STICK
Take a look inside our world.
Convert the kitchen into your happy place with these touches.
Santa Barbara’s flourishing art scene re-enacts vibrant life in the Riviera
Don’t try to rain on our parade.
Spring basics turn bold against Enkay Home’s plush fabrics. A karat (or 24) a day keeps the doctor away.
98 | 48 HOURS
Spring into the weekend with our foolproof schedule.
TRAVEL DINING 22 | GOING DUTCH
The Dutchess Ojai boasts bold flavors, brought to us by The Rustic Canyon Family.
26 | REACH FOR THE FARMS
Satellite’s farm to table and glass concept makes for a bottle-half-full mentality.
30 | GHOST RIDER
When we thought Santa Barbara nightlife couldn’t get better, we decided to see it from the driver’s seat of the Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost.
78 | THE BAHAMAS EXPERIENCE The jewel of the Caribbean offers the royal treatment on pink sand beaches.
84 | EMPIRE STATE OF MIND
New York’s new guard luxuriates at the expansive Hudson Yards.
88 | WAKING UP THE WILD WEST Acme Hospitality dots the American West with their distinct, rich-historied personality.
94 | PEAKING
Vail, Colorado proves the finer things in life are found at the highest elevations.
WELLNESS 40 | HORMONE HOMEOSTASIS Balancing hormones to balance our lives.
44 | BUSY BEE
Take a breath to detach from the busyness epidemic.
48 | REL AXATION STATION
Local resorts are rebuilding their wellness mantras for a healthier you in 2022.
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Spring Showers, page 52
Hotel California
SB LIFE & STYLE snapshots
Impulse Purchase: Heidi Merrick’s Summerland showroom is your fix of California cool.
BEHIND THE SCENES Jet Setting: Take your turn in the fast lane, courtesy of exceptional charter company Sun Air Jets.
Dawn Patrol: On the spring bucket list: seeing more sunrises.
Giving Back: Dreaming of spring cocktails and fundraising for the Dream Foundation.
Follow @sblifeandstyle for daily behind the scenes content, new restaurants, events, getaways, and more...
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Griffin Tax
Tax Planning | Tax Preparation |Tax Resolution 805-965-0068 | alana@alanagriffintax.com
SB LIFE & STYLE covet & crave
Kitchen Rescue
REVIVE YOUR APPETITE WITH THESE TOP-SHELF SUSTAINABLE PICKS by DELANEY WILLET
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Always Pan Multipurpose Cooktop Pan This do-it-all pan is a cult favorite among foodies and novices alike. With the ability to act as a fry pan, sauté pan, steamer, skillet, saucepan, nonstick pan, spatula, and spoon rest, what more could you ask for? FROMOURPL ACE.COM
Gucci Cloche Reveal your delicacies and delight your guests with a flourish of this highfashion culinary touch.
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GUCCI.COM
Simple Feast PlantBased Meal Kits As the year goes on, our home-cooking declarations begin to creep away from us. Hold yourself accountable and keep it easy with a subscription to these restaurant-quality meals made of locally sourced ingredients. SIMPLEFEAST.COM
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iio Retro Refrigerator Iio’s retro design and sleek body make for the perfect update in the heart of your home: the kitchen. Nostalgia combines with firstclass energy efficiency and of-themoment technology to instantly personalize and elevate the way you approach appliances. IIOKITCHEN.COM
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Dry Farm Wines Natural Sparkling Wine Subscription Each natural bottle received within the Dry Farm Wines subscription is lab-tested for purity, free of additives, and sourced from around the globe. The sparkling wine selection makes sustainable imbibing particularly celebratory. DRYFARMWINES.COM
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Messermeister Sustainable Chef Knives The woman-owned Messermeister line began in the garage of sisters Chelcea and Kirsten’s immigrant parents 40 years ago. The high-quality knives are crafted in Ojai and feature engraving and removable handles, allowing the blades the versatility to match any kitchen. MESSERMEISTER.COM
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Angie
SB LIFE & STYLE this season
ART of LIFE
The
SANTA BARBARA’S ART SCENE FLOURISHES WITH FRESH TAKES ON CLASSIC GENRES
Photo by Sarah Prince
by ALEXANDRA LEE
FOR THE LOVE OF ART
Colette Cosentino’s feathery, airy brustrokes sculpt swirling winter whites, splashes of ocean, blooming florals, and starry skies, inviting the viewer to experience their own inspiration. As a native to the area, her work focuses upon the unchanging elements of Santa Barbara’s landscape—the sea, sky, and land. With a 30 year artistic career, Colette’s talent ranges far beyond the medium of painting, including a line of “artful” lifestyle products like ornaments and paperweights, as well as murals, wall coverings, and prints. Colette’s pastel paintings capture the magical childlike wonder often lost in contemporary and modern art—truly a dream on canvas. The atelier and gallery, located on West Anapamu Street, is open by appointment only. colettecosentino.com
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BENDING THE RULES
COVET CONTEMPORARY
Santa Barbara’s freshest selection of contemporary and modern art is on display at Maune Contemporary, the second location of art-collecting couple Heidi and Ramsey Maune’s gallery. Paying homage to Heidi’s past as a UC Santa Barbara graduate, the gallery’s first exhibition is appropriately entitled “Finally Home,” featuring limited-edition fine art by lauded artists from across the globe. Maune blends genres from abstract and expressionism to realism and pop. Mixed media artworks combine painting with neon lighting, sculpture with realism, optical illusion with precision. The gallery offers up not only its unique pieces for the pleasure of the contemporary art lover, but also advisory and curatorial services in an effort to advance the art world as a whole. maune.com
With an unconventional approach to abstract and figurative art, Cassandria’s work is an impressive demonstration of talent, using specialized technique to create distinctive displays of color. Her process, reverse painting on glass, consists of applying paint to one side and flipping the glass over to reveal the final image. The first brush strokes are the first the viewer will see, so there is little that can be edited—a daring and unapologetic approach to art. Cassandria goes beyond this process, shattering her reverse-painted glass and then restoring the image to another version of itself. The result is fissure-like crevices that add texture to every inch of her already detailed work. Cassandria’s abstracts resemble exploding supernovas of bright aqua and fuschia, while her figurative work portrays realistic women in elegant detail. Located on Coast Village Road in Montecito, the gallery’s collection is one for the bold abstract enthusiast. cassandriablackmore.com
EYE CANDY
Life imitates art by virtue of Andrea Schumacher, accomplished Santa Barbara and Denver-based interior designer. Incorporating artistic style into every nook, Andrea’s enchanting spaces provide no shortage of variety in color, detail, and texture. “My knowledge of design comes from a long, ongoing love of the world around me,” Andrea remarks. “I am a true student of the living, breathing world.” She transforms any dark and neglected corner into a functional and aesthetic space, leaving no blank wall or coffee table uncharacterized. Mixing complexity with simplicity and playfulness with sophistication, personality peeks through just the right amount. Following her expertise and passion for design, Andrea’s first book Vibrant Interiors is set for release in April, teaching us how to “live large at home” through a fearless aesthetic philosophy. andreaschumacherinteriors.com
IMPASTO SYNDROME
The post-impressionist era has returned, courtesy of Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s newest exhibition, “Through Vincent’s Eyes: Van Gogh and His Sources.” Showcasing 20 works by the famous artist, the exhibition also includes 75 other works by artists and authors of the romantic and impressionist eras, in an effort to highlight Van Gogh’s creative inspirations. Over 60 artists, including Claude Monet and Paul Gauguin, are represented in the collection, as well as literary works by writers such as Charles Dickens and Edgar Allen Poe. The show portrays Van Gogh’s devotion to the era, and his avant-garde approach to creating art during the 19th century. The exhibit will be open through May 22. * sbma.net
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SB LIFE & STYLE dining
GOING DUTCH FEEDING OUR SAVORY SENSES AT OJAI'S BURMESE-INSPIRED THE DUTCHESS by ANNA CONSTANTINO Photographs by SILAS FALLSTICH
I
catch a flicker out of the corner of my eye, my gaze drawn to an ancient relic in the wall, my hand grazing a Oaxacan rum concoction. Once a bread oven in Ojai’s first bakery in 1926, now the hearth before which guests dine, The Dutchess is dually the eponym and soul of The Rustic Canyon Family’s newest dining endeavor.
A love-child of bold forces, The Dutchess was born when seasoned restaurateurs Zoe Nathan and Josh Loeb teamed up with Executive Chef Saw Naing and Bakers Kate Pepper and Kelsey Brito, the driving forces behind the Burmese cuisine and bakery, respectively. The space is not only a beautifully-crafted collaboration but an embracement of its farm-to-table ethos, celebrating local farmers and purveyors in Ojai Valley. I survey the scene, a stunning space
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detailed by Hunter & Davis Interior Design, adorned with oil lamps, Turkish rugs, and wooden details sourced from California flea markets and antique stores. My second cocktail of the evening, Smokeshow, arrives concurrently with a mouthwatering array of Burmese finger food: Naan with herbed butter, Coconut Chickpea Curry, and Aloo Puri. The wafting scent alone is enough to make you swoon, but a taste will do you one better. The buttery, flaky paratha drizzled in curry is a bite I will never forget; an allencompassing sensory experience of flavor, fat, texture, and spice. I scoop a spoonful and find a single bay leaf–a sign, according to my mother, of good luck and abundance. I snack and sip on The Pegu, a delightful coupe of gin, angostura bitters, and Ojai tangerines, a distinguishable citrus and emblem of the town’s farming community.
Organic Half Tandoori Chicken and The Pegu Club Cocktail @ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 23
“ONE COULD EXPLORE FOR HOURS, DISCOVERING A TOUCH OF CHARACTER AND WHIMSY IN EVERY CORNER. ”
Two share plates appear, Chris’ Carrots and Ginger and an array of Wooden Skewers: notably, the chicken thigh, meatballs, and beef satay with tamarind glaze. A deliciously understated smoke characterizes each succulent skewer, a result of roasting over coals, Chef Naing’s homage to traditional hawker stands along Rangoon’s vibrant 28th Street. I drag charred carrots through coriander whipped yogurt and pistachio, intermixing bites of breads and curries, a wondrous smorgasbord that quickly vanishes. Just when my meal can’t be more satisfying, two family-style platters of Tea Leaf Salad and Motley Crew Quail decorate the table. Fermented tea leaf salad (lahpet thoke), a prominent staple originating in Burma, is not only enjoyed for its vibrant flavors but for its health benefits derived from antioxidants. Chef ’s modified take on this salad is, simply stated, a party in my mouth. It leaves a crisp zing to be balanced by a succulent quail leg, served with a spicy persimmon chutney and green garlic. I walk off my entrées exploring the countless nooks within the space, adorned with floral accents and decorative umbrellas. One could explore for hours, discovering a touch of character and whimsy in every corner. Alas, to avoid my desserts melting, I dash back to the table. A Passion Fruit Lassi Pie and Kulfi flavored with rose, pistachio, and cardamom are the final endeavor of the evening. Zesty tropical fruit and ginger snap melt on my tongue, intermingling bites of creamy kulfi, a traditional South Asian “ice cream on a stick.” To my own surprise, we manage to leave only a bite or two, an impressive feat considering the breadth of the feast. A sleepy haze lures me to the back bar room, entranced by clicks of pool balls and the rhythm of the bartender’s shaker. I hear chimes of exuberant bar-goers akin to a family giggling over dinner; there is a comfort in knowing you’re in a space where everyone has a place. A perfect stranger locks eyes with me watching their game; “You’re next” they nod with a smile. It seems as though the good time is only getting started. *
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Passion Fruit Lassi Pie
@ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 25
reach for
Baes Bowl
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the farms
SATELLITE’S FARM-TO-TABLE CUISINE REVOLVES AROUND THE EARTH by EILEEN BETTINGER | Photographs by SILAS FALLSTICH
A
bove State Street, rain clouds concoct a luminous cobalt atmosphere, painting the sidewalks blue and giving way to baby puddles. The smell of wet pavement holds a kind of honesty and promise as the night sets in–this is my favorite kind of twilight. Gradually, the song Harvest Moon warbles to us from afar, luring us into Satellite, the retro-hip spot reinventing vegetarian dining with its unbeatable freshness and celebration of local flavors.
“Light from a disco ball cascades around the room like faraway stars and in one corner, where the ‘stars’ glow brightest, the walls seem to fall away into gentle shadow.”
Only a few steps inside the restaurant confirm Satellite as the perfect refuge from drizzling weather. Concrete surfaces, walnut paneling, and brass accents alternate across the room, offset by velvet green upholstery and fern-colored walls. Light from a disco ball cascades around the room like faraway stars and in one corner, where the “stars” glow brightest, the walls seem to fall away into gentle shadow. For a moment, the room expands, breathing life into Satellite’s cosmic decor: a restored astronaut’s suit, conical flask vases, and several vintage space exploration posters. It’s not long before Sommelier and Owner Drew Cuddy leads us to our table. He eagerly presents us each with a Sunshine Spritz, Satellite’s more delicate version of an Aperol Spritz, and a house favorite. Citrus scents lead me into my first sip which is floral and smooth. The natural sweetness sets this Spritz aside from your standard Aperol cocktail, making it the perfect drink for someone who appreciates organic flavors over sugary syrups. It tastes like an invitation, gently nudging my palate awake just in time to receive our order approaching us from the kitchen. We begin by snacking on Marcona almonds coated in Aleppo pepper flakes. A pinch of sumac excites my tongue, the spice of which is only enhanced by a garlic saltiness that follows. A cast-iron kalamata focaccia lands before us. The pie-shaped loaf is amazingly crisp yet spongy,
@ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 27
growing increasingly soft and airy towards the center. Naturally marinated by the olives baked throughout, the bread delivers a sharpness that complements its unexpectedly sweet, spreadable garlic pairing. It’s a flavor profile that makes for an addicting bite.
Sunshine Spritz
We refresh with the beloved Yoga Pants Salad, often referred to as a “farmer’s market on a plate.” Tossed with sweet potatoes one day and sprinkled with blueberries the next, the evolving recipe reminds us that the freshest foods cannot exist year-round, restoring an appreciation for locally-available produce and honest culinary practices. “The dishes aren’t good because of what someone has done to change and manipulate what’s in them,” we’re told. Instead, Executive Chef Emma West designed the menu to highlight the innate flavors of the earth. While I am beyond impressed, the next dish truly showcases the success behind this philosophy; cue my favorite, the Gigante Beans Confit. With very few ingredients–gigante beans and pesto–I figure this one is pretty intuitive. Nevertheless, my expectations are surpassed yet again. The beans, almost like gnocchi, give way in my mouth like melting pads of butter. If I could assign a defining experience to the “melt in your mouth” concept, this would be it. The pesto, composed of spinach, basil, and garlic, delivers a unique spice with the addition of harissa, while the hemp seeds create a delicate crunch that I will miss dearly in other pesto sauces. It’s simple and straightforward–it’s the freshest bite I’ve ever had.
The Grilled Cheese Sandwich
“HEADING AWAY FEELING nourished AND warm, I’M STRUCK BY THE true life force BEHIND THIS RESTAURANT.”
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We finish up our main meal with the Filet de Hongo, a polenta dish that persuades me to dip my fork back in for “just one more bite” about 4-5 extra times. The polenta is rich against zesty chimichurri, buffering the tanginess of seared shiitake mushrooms without eclipsing their earthy flavor. After one last digestif, Drew’s grandmother’s original hazelnut-studded brownie sends us on our way. As we exit, soft tungsten light spills across the sidewalk, the energetic atmosphere lingering momentarily before dissolving into the night. Heading away feeling nourished and warm, I’m struck by the true life force behind this restaurant. Satellite’s farm-totable approach returns dining to its roots in a way that is down-to-earth, creative, and sophisticated. The experience, in turn, is truly a labor of love, from the small kitchen now 30 feet away, from my community, and from the land that I live on. *
• NON GMO SEEDS ORGANIC EGGS • GARLIC HOUSE MADE JAMS •
SWEET WHEEL FARM FRESH PRODUCE Organic & Pesticide Free 2285 Lillie Avenue Summerland Open Daily 10 - 5 PM sweetwheelfarms.com 805 770 3677
CARROTS • SPAGHETTI SQUASH • BERRIES • HERBS • HEIRLOOMS • CITRUS • CELERY
• AVOCADOS
• TORTILLAS • HOMEMADE SALSA • TORTILLA CHIPS • TOMATOES •
• LOCAL HONEY • LETTUCE • ARTISINAL BAKED GOODS • PEACHES • @ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 29
GHOST
SANTA BARBARA’S STARRY NIGHTS BURN BRIGHTER UNDER THE ROOF OF THE ROLLS-ROYCE BLACK BADGE GHOST, IDEAL TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM THE CITY’S EQUALLY OPULENT HAUNTS
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RIDER by DELANEY WILLET Photographs by SILAS FALLSTICH
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Lucky's Martini
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2022 Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost
F
or a town that is often mixed up in the synonyms of quaint, relaxing, laidback, and understated, Santa Barbara possesses a certain charm from its glamorous history that it carries into the present, a je ne sais quoi that is unmatched in any other seaside city, this continent or otherwise. Such quiet prestige calls for a coach worthy of these storied streets, providing an elegant complement to palm-lined boulevards. Enter the Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost, a sleek bodied machine perched at the high end of an already top-of-the-line brand. The Black Badge Ghost is created for the night, to “live after dark.” The model may clock in at nearly 600 horsepower, but we are in no rush as we cruise the back streets of Montecito, scouring Santa Barbara’s chic nightlife scene in utmost style.
In a car that begs to be chauffeured, allowing passengers to gaze at the starry night roof (replete with shooting stars) and prod at the unfolding touch screens in the back seat, Lucky’s old-world service to match screams as an obvious segue into the night. Appetizers lavish the table; escargot only felt fitting. The richness of our bites mirrors our transportation’s polish. Rather than cleansing the taste buds, an entree course composed of a truffled chicken pot pie enhances the decadence of the evening, pulling me deeper into an extravagance-induced stupor. Lucky’s Spicy Margarita, topped with a searing habanero tequila, refocuses the flavors to balance the bounty, allowing me to savor each bite a bit longer than the last. Longing to be back behind the wheel of a work of art, but allowing our better judgment to surpass desire, we allow the valet to hold the Black Badge Ghost awhile longer as we head next door, seeking adventure. Sushi by Scratch Restaurants, tucked into the southern corner of the storied Montecito Inn, has been my premier Santa Barbara recommendation to locals and visitors alike since my first meal opening week. To see the concept evolve from the
“THE BLACK BADGE GHOST IS CREATED FOR THE NIGHT, TO ‘LIVE AFTER DARK.’”
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Santa Barbara Spot Prawn at Sushi by Scratch Restaurants
intimacy of ten seats around a sushi bar has been as exciting and nuanced as each individual meal. The restaurant’s team has expanded in its four years, recently welcoming Chef Nate, who acts as master of ceremonies during our cherished hours on the receiving end of the bar. The pairing, which aligns itself in the sushi’s flavor profile every few bites, gifts us with seven different sips of top-shelf sake, wine, house-mixed cocktails, beer, and (finally, and surprisingly) matcha, that enliven our palates and conversation. As guests of the night’s last seating, we delight in conviviality with the restaurant team, staying long past our welcome and reveling in every moment. No evening of exorbitance is complete without a nightcap at The Manor Bar at Rosewood Miramar Beach. Their expertly-crafted literary menu features libations not only named after books, but concocted to incorporate their plots, taking one’s imagination and appetite through an odyssey. Manor Bar’s deep wood paneling and mirrored, art deco bar insinuates a cocktail program laden with whiskey, perhaps refreshments mixed to make your face sour. In reality, the menu is diverse, full-bodied, and nuanced, introducing me to flavors I would have never before considered mixing, much less enjoying. The menu is formatted like a novel, each page telling
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2022 Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost
@ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 35
2022 Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost at Rosewood Miramar Beach LAPOINTE duster, Allora by Laura Nili Lotan camisole, Allora by Laura RtA pants, Allora by Laura Saint Laurent shoes, The Webster 36 | MARCH/APRIL 2022
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“THIS IS THE POWER OF THE ROLLS-ROYCE: MAKING A STATEMENT BY SAYING NOTHING, CALLING ATTENTION TO ITSELF BY SIMPLY EXISTING.”
the story of a different concoction. Guests are encouraged to pluck these compendiums from the walls, as one would in a stately library. The cocktails evolve as you drink them, like the Crime & Punishment, a riff off the White Russian that changes from chalky white to a moody grey as you sip, thanks to an activated charcoal foam. The Monk, based on a romance novel written in 1796, features the very Chartreuse made by the monks of which the story tells, a recipe which remains a mystery to this day. With such an extent of personalization and formulation going into each drink, the list can look daunting at first, perhaps unfamiliar. Rest assured that, no matter your liquor preferences, this is an experience in which caution must be thrown to the wind. It is not often a bar menu is constructed in which every single cocktail is a musttry, unique from anything I have tasted before and unlike any other beside it. The best advice for a Manor Bar meetup? Bring friends, try everything, and stay for the sultry live music. The Rosewood valet pulls the Ghost around once the night signals its impending end. The Black Badge model floats into the driveway with a supernatural ease, mimicking the magic carpet-like drive behind the wheel. With what seems to be an invisible flourish, the car is put into park, immediately inducing the request for photoshoots from strangers waiting alongside me. They marvel at the shark-like body, shining even in the inky light. They tenderly touch the lush carpet that cushions the feet of each passenger, a welcome reprieve after a day in heels. Some even snap photographs with the exterior, claiming their loved ones will “lose their minds” over such a sight. This is the power of the Rolls-Royce: making a statement by saying nothing, calling attention to itself by simply existing. Much like the reputation of Santa Barbara, both earn respect on their own merits, for moving stealthily, quietly, with utmost integrity and the highest quality. *
Marching Men Cocktail at The Manor Bar LAPOINTE duster, Allora by Laura Kai Linz rings & bracelet, Allora by Laura
rolls-roycemotorcars.com
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SB LIFE & STYLE wellness
Hormone
HOMEOSTASIS HORMONE HAPPY: YOUR CHEAT SHEET TO A HEALTHIER YOU by KARA THOMPSON
i
f life is like a rollercoaster, my hormones have led me to the front seat of the fastest, steepest one. I know there are many women out there who can relate. It’s talked about constantly—”My hair is falling out,” “I have acne,” “My periods aren’t regular,” “I get mood swings.” All of these unwelcome yet eerily common symptoms can be traced back to hormonal imbalances.
After going off birth control pills for the first time in seven years, and having almost all of my pesky symptoms go away, I felt obligated to dig deeper and learn more about how our hormones function best. Because all bodies and needs are unique, it’s smart to talk to your doctor to get your health on track. However, these insights from Dr. Jennifer Salcido, ND and founder of Santa Barbara Integrative Medicine, will empower you to take control over your hormone health—and hopefully see brighter, less brain fog-filled days. Wait, what are hormones? Truthfully, until now, I didn’t really understand what hormones are, let alone how much they impact our bodies. Unfortunately, many young women are handed the pill at their first gynecologist visit without more than a simple “this might help your breakouts” or “this should make your periods lighter,” never to be told how synthetic hormones can affect us in the long run. Salcido simplifies all that hormones do: they’re chemical messengers that provide signals to our bodies to perform various tasks. They regulate our metabolism, growth, reproduction, brain function, digestion, and more.
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How do birth control pills impact our hormones? The hormones in the pill are synthetic and suppress our body’s own production of hormones. Most birth control pills contain a combination of progestin (synthetic progesterone) and ethinyl estradiol (synthetic estrogen), or progestin alone. “Because of side effects, such as blood clots and strokes, I recommend birth control with the lowest amounts of hormones in them,” Salcido says. Ask your provider for recommendations that are low-dose, or have your hormone levels checked before deciding on a pill. What else can impact our hormones? Oral contraception isn’t the only factor that can contribute to changes in hormone levels Hormones can also be heavily affected by diet, medications, toxins, and overall lifestyle. What are some signs of hormonal imbalance? Signs of hormone imbalance include PMS, anxiety, irritability, water retention, breast tenderness, acne, facial hair, hair loss, and fatigue. “Thinning hair can be due to lower production of hormones like estrogen and increased production of cortisol,” Salcido explains. “Angry skin can be due to a compromised liver that is struggling to break down hormones.” To achieve optimal hormone levels, our bodies need a proper balance between hormone production, utilization, and breakdown. How can we check our hormone levels? It seems like a no-brainer but is worth mentioning: You
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can’t test your hormone levels and expect accurate results – Exercise enough to sweat. This helps discharge toxins that if you’re taking oral contraception. In order to really find can disrupt hormones and helps keep body fat at a healthy out what your body needs, it’s best to be off the pill for at level. This is important since fat cells actually produce least three months before proceeding with hormone testing. estrone, the most risky form of estrogen. When it comes to testing methods, Salcido says – Address constipation as this allows toxins to be reabsorbed she prefers saliva tests because they reflect the free and disrupt hormone balance. active levels of hormones in the body rather than those that are bound to protein. The test checks three – Cut out excess alcohol. The liver cannot metabolize different types of estrogen, which should be in proper hormones optimally if it is too busy breaking down alcohol. balance. It also measures progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, and four cortisol levels, according to Salcido. How can I support my hormones if I’m on birth control? Birth control pills deplete the body of key nutrients like B vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, magnesium, selenium, What practices can support healthy, balanced hormones? and zinc, so getting good amounts of these nutrients in – Eat plenty of fiber, which can bind excess hormones and your diet or supplementing is important. “Blood clots and carry them out of the body. stroke as mentioned before are an increased risk for women – Avoid chemicals as much as possible since many of them taking oral contraceptives, so eating well and exercising are endocrine disruptors. Two common examples include regularly are good ways to decrease the risk,” Salcido adds. plastics and synthetic fragrances, which contain phthalates that can stimulate hormone receptors and cause imbalance. Another aspect to keep in mind is that the liver has to break down the synthetic hormones in birth control – Limit dairy consumption because it’s notorious for (as well as the hormones we produce), so keeping your increasing estrogen. Cows that produce milk need liver healthy is crucial. You can achieve this by eating high levels of hormones and this is passed onto the plenty of vegetables, especially cruciferous vegetables, as well as avoiding alcohol and synthetic chemicals. * consumer—even if the dairy is organic.
8 Hormones You Should Know About:
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THYROID
DHEA
Regulates temperature, metabolism, and hair growth.
E ST R O G E N
Has anti-aging, energizing, and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s a precursor to other hormones, especially testosterone.
Crucial for a healthy brain, breasts, bones, and skin. Estrogen also prepares the uterus for implantation of fertilized eggs.
Balances calcium in the body.
P R O G E ST E R O N E
G R OW T H H O R M O N E
Supports calming aspects in the body, balances estrogen, and prepares the body for pregnancy.
Improves muscle mass, promotes fat loss, and stimulates tissue repair.
T E STO ST E R O N E
OXY T O C I N
Important for a healthy brain, bones, muscles, and libido.
Secreted when people are in love, during orgasm, labor, and breastfeeding. It also promotes bonding.
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Photo by Jacqueline Pilar
BUSY bee ESCAPING THE BUSYNESS EPIDEMIC by CELINE WALLACE
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e live in a world where hustling and being busy are glorified. The busier you are, the more successful you must be, right? While this has been true in the past, being busy is now being worn as a badge of honor, but often without purpose and productivity behind it, often resulting in burnout.
and gathering, with no off switch for our nervous systems. Centuries ago, our human biology evolved to hunt and then rest. In today's world, we are always “hunting” in the form of being on our phones, emails, social media, and absorbing the constant stream of information coming at us.
Have you encountered a friend, partner, or maybe even yourself, constantly stating, “Gosh, I'm so busy!” endlessly yet never getting ahead? You might even wonder what keeps them “busy.” This label is often associated with rushing syndrome, which gives us a sense of identity and purpose. We feel that by being busy, we're accomplishing something, which takes us back to our primal nature of hunting and gathering. Since we have genetically evolved to hunt or, in today's world, execute tasks, completing to-do’s releases dopamine (the happy hormone, which is a big part of our human ability to think and plan).
This busyness or rushing syndrome has been heightened with COVID-19 because being productive offers a sense of normality and control while the world is upside down. Our nervous systems are trying to make sense of the discord and find a way to keep us feeling safe. Checking things off our to-do list gives us a little boost, and we get addicted to chasing that dopamine hit. But the changes in our biochemistry that result from high cortisol (stress hormone), lack of sleep, and sedentary habits lead to long-term health issues, like adrenal fatigue, burnout, insomnia, anxiety, depression, gut health issues, and IBS, to name a few.
So, what’s the issue if busyness stems from seeking the next dopamine rush, a natural chemical in the brain? The problem is, our bodies are put under continuous stress, as if we are always hunting
The good news? It's not just you; everyone is feeling the world speed up, but the responsibility is yours to take charge of your physical and mental health. Turn the page for five strategies.
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BE INTENTIONAL WITH YOUR TIME Take a step back and figure out what your most important tasks are. Are you purposeful when you work, or easily distracted? Have a list of your top three daily tasks and focus on those. We are far more productive with a short list of achievable tasks than a long list of little things.
TAKE BREAKS Our brains are not designed to be in total concentration for hours on end. Every so often (research says about 4050 minutes), find ways to meaningfully detach from your work. Some of my favorites include taking a nature walk, doing a few yoga poses, writing in my gratitude journal, or making tea. Resist the urge to scroll social media, which can suck you into a much longer break than intended.
CREATE A HAPPINESS ROUTINE Starting your morning with a joyful ritual (I love gratitude journaling and matcha) can help you get into the zone. Begin the day with the mindset you want to maintain because that will be the lens you view everything through. Take the time to curate space for yourself in the morning to set that up, so you can relax and ease into your tasks with a nourished and refreshed mindset.
RELEASE PERFECTIONISM One of the ways that our nervous system attempts to regain control during a state of frenzied busyness is by making sure that everything is flawless. Chasing perfectionism in even the most mundane tasks (should I use an exclamation point or an emoji in this email to my colleague?!) can eat up a massive portion of your schedule. Put your best effort into your work but keep in mind that perfect doesn't exist.
5 HAVE BOUNDARIES AROUND TECHNOLOGY We are all guilty of reaching for our phones when we first wake up and last minute before bed, but looking at our phones upon waking or sleeping damages our brains long-term. When you first wake up in the morning, your brain switches from delta waves, which occur in a deep sleep state, to theta waves, which occur during a daydreamy state. The brain then moves to produce alpha waves when you are awake but relaxed and not processing much information. Now, by grabbing your phone first and immediately diving into the online world, you force your body to skip the critical theta and alpha stages and go straight to being wide awake and alert (also known as the beta state). Alternatively, looking at your phone before bed stops your brain from producing the sleep hormone melatonin as the blue-ray light from your screen prevents the brain's circadian rhythm from thinking it's nighttime, hindering the development of this essential sleep hormone. To help your body's natural cyclical rhythm and stress response, have healthy boundaries, like no screens an hour after waking or an hour before bed. By implementing this simple boundary you’ll watch your health improve as your nervous system slows down and your body adjusts to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. *
relaxation station W
ellness is endemic to the culture of a spa, particularly at a seaside resort. Yet where the treatment stops, most hotel spa experiences end. As the American Riviera continues to burgeon into the world-class destination it has always been, our sumptuous hotels are stepping up their approach to health, relaxation, and mindfulness to create immersive experiences for guests and locals alike.
ROSEWOOD MIRAMAR BEACH Sense Spa at Rosewood Miramar Beach is unparalleled in its range of meticulously plotted, articulate, and exclusive offerings. Immediately, the lobby’s playful, pink-splashed decor notifies me that this will be unlike any spa experience I have had before. I’m greeted by not one, but three inviting women, who are caring and warm where one might expect the colder, silent reverence typical of a wellness setting. CBD-infused tea is set before me as we discuss what I look to gain from today’s treatment, the Sage Purification Ritual. As my last sip of tea drains, I realize I would hardly like to leave, preferring the company of these lovely women all day. Yet, relaxation calls.
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SANTA BARBARA’S RESORTS BOAST WORLD-CLASS WELLNESS FACILITIES THAT ARE REDEFINING THE WAY WE SPA by DELANEY WILLET
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It is no secret that Rosewood is the destination for leisure, a playground for adults and families alike. This reputation is cemented in their wellness facilities. The spa includes multiple wings of treatment rooms, replete with couches, ensuite bathrooms and showers, and the most sumptuous fabrics available. An outdoor observation deck complements the multiple communal spaces within the spa, where guests may sip champagne and nibble chocolate strawberries from the comfort of their robes and slippers. Again, I muse that I may spend my day here, reclined in this silken chaise, reading last month’s issue of SBLS that was readily on hand in the common area, and I may have never been happier. Though, when Rosewood says spa with us, the answer is nothing but a resounding yes. The Sage Ritual, also known as ninety minutes of practically melting into the massage table while an expert kneads my muscles back into the putty state for which they have always been destined, capitalizes on the rich holistic mechanisms of sage that grows endemically. Kerstin Florian oils and scrubs lavish me, so deftly I cannot determine which product is being applied to which maneuver, only knowing that what I am currently experiencing is profoundly restorative. The ritual ends as my masseuse rouses me (likely a few more times than she is used to) and I refuse to leave this nirvana state. As Rosewood intended, I am cleansed and reborn. I treat myself to a lengthy shower in the stunning marble bathrooms and another cup of tea, feet kicked up on my ottoman as if I have nowhere to be for days on end. And maybe I don’t. The ritual purified me of the semblance of a belief that I should be anywhere but Rosewood Miramar Beach, at any given time, on any given day. With that realization, I change out of my robe, with a new lease on life, and saunter downstairs to The Manor Bar, deciding to savor this a bit longer.
Rosewood Miramar Beach
“AS ROSEWOOD INTENTED, I am CLEANSED and REBORN.”
THE RITZ-CARLTON BACARA The sanctuary constructed at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara is more wellness wonderland than spa facilities. The spa engulfs a dedicated wing of the property, showcasing a health-forward food and beverage menu to be enjoyed poolside. The serene pool flanks the spa’s entrance, welcoming me into the private retreat. Spa Director Haywon Kim explains, “Excess is no longer the key to success. In keeping with the values of the RitzCarlton culture, our highest mission is the care and comfort of our guests, made possible by entirely customizable treatments and programming.” Bacara practices a robust definition of wellbeing on-property, situated atop Santa Barbara’s most breathtaking bluffs, depositing guests closer to the natural healing characteristics of the surrounding nature than nearly any other resort along the coast. Kim continues, “The land speaks the story of who we are, so we connect that to our services. A hike opens your heart in the same way hearing the waves crash during our Bacara Body Melt treatment may. I get goosebumps just talking about it.”
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara
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Services are set to expand this spring to further express The RitzCarlton’s full-bodied wellness philosophy, connecting guests to the local flora and fauna, as well as to themselves. Creative classes are in development, available to locals and visitors alike. Journaling and meditation are simply a few ticks on the list of myriad self-discovery
trails one may choose to take during their stay. Just as Santa Barbara has a host of offerings, as does this coastal wellness hub. Don’t limit yourself when booking your next experience. Instead, treat mind, body, and soul; begin your day with a sound bowl meditation, bookended by Bacara’s Signature Massage featuring local products, and seal in your healing with a eucalyptus steam. Depart transformed and ready to schedule your next stay!
El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel
“BELMOND’S WELLNESS programming UPLIFTS and INSPIRES, stirring creation in its many BRILLIANT guests, the new guard of the artistic scene.”
El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel
Photos by Meadow Rose
EL ENCANTO, A BELMOND HOTEL The Riviera would be remiss without the heralded and historic presence of El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel. The oasis engulfs me in citrus groves, panoramic ocean views, and a distinct feeling, owed to their decades-long tenure on these vibrant, well-manicured grounds. There is a certain glamour to the Belmond that other Californian properties lack, rooted in its infancy as a Hollywood retreat, a symbolism in El Encanto’s philosophy that remains substantial today. Belmond’s wellness programming uplifts and inspires, stirring creation in its many brilliant guests, the new guard of the artistic scene. Multiple onsite experts, including facialist Linda Ross, artist Renate C. Hume, and healer Cristy Candler, lead guests firsthand on a journey of recentering and replenishment, focusing on the intersection of beauty, mindfulness, and wellbeing. A rich fitness schedule adds balance to days lounging around the property and removes mental blocks in the psyches of visitors. Indigenous plants are carried throughout each facet of the resort’s health-conscious construction, from the subversive and swoon worthy cuisine, to the botanicals and local brands featured on their treatment menu. Beyond their intoxicating list of native ingredients, El Encanto features organic loose leaf teas from Ojai’s Magic Hour (a personal favorite haunt of mine). Refined indulgence is personified at the Belmond, harkening back to the golden age, which they are now ushering into its new era–for the community, the city, and each individual that crosses their threshold. *
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SB LIFE & STYLE fashion
SPR RNG showers
Photographs by JON PREMOSCH | Stylist DELANEY WILLET | Model MORGAN CHELF with Two Management Hair RILEY HOLGUIN | Makeup COLLEEN KONOWITZ | Property listed with PACASO pacaso.com
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Kat Maconie shoes Kai Linz necklace, Allora by Laura
Versace sweater, The Webster Hunza G swimsuit Versace bracelet, MARCUS Kai Linz necklaces, Allora by Laura @ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 53
Christian Dior bucket hat, The Webster A Golde leather shirt, MARCUS Kai Linz necklace, Allora by Laura
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Fendi dress Kat Maconie shoes Kai Linz necklace, Allora by Laura @ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 55
Heidi Merrick jumpsuit Manolo Blahnik heels 56 | MARCH/APRIL 2022
Versace swimsuit, The Webster Gucci sunglasses, MARCUS Versace bracelet, MARCUS Kai Linz bracelet, Allora by Laura
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LHD dress, The Webster Gucci sunglasses, MARCUS Kai Linz jewelry, Allora by Laura
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Versace swimsuit, The Webster Gucci sunglasses, MARCUS Versace bracelet, MARCUS Kai Linz jewelry, Allora by Laura
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BLANK _______ SPACE
Photographs by JORDAN DONOHOE | Stylist DELANEY WILLET Model STAV BEN ZUR wih L.A. Models | Hair & Makeup JA'NICE RAMOS
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Chanel top, The Webster Alexander Wang trousers, The Webster Kai Linz earrings, Allora by Laura Olivia Rüst bracelet
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Extreme Cashmere set, Allora by Laura Nili Lotan vest, Allora by Laura Solios watch Enkay rug, enkay.com
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Dior sweater, The Webster Olivia Rüst bracelet Kai Linz earrings, Allora by Laura Enkay pouf, enkay.com
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Assouline Diamonds, assouline.com Assouline Buccellati: A Century of Timeless Beauty, assouline.com Olivia Rüst necklaces Enkay pillows, enkay.com
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Scotch & Soda blazer & trousers, Whiskey & Leather Kai Linz necklace & earrings, Allora by Laura Solios watch Whiskey, flaviar.com Ice cube made with True Cubes tray, truecubes.com
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RtA suit, Allora by Laura Kai Linz earrings, Allora by Laura Nili Lotan tank top, Allora by Laura 66 | MARCH/APRIL 2022
Norma Kamali jumpsuit, Allora by Laura Spinelli Kilcolin rings Olivia Rüst necklace Enkay rug & pouf, enkay.com
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A KARAT
&stick
Photographs by SILAS FALLSTICH Models EILEEN BETTINGER & ALEXANDRA LEE Laykin et Cie ring & bracelets LAPOINTE sweatshirt, Allora by Laura Sweet Wheel Farms eggs
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Laykin et Cie ring Sweet Wheel Farms eggs
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Laykin et Cie ring
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Rabbit available for adoption at BUNS, bunssb.org Laykin et Cie brooch @ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 71
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Anne Sisteron rings & bracelets Karina Brez Horse LUV necklace LAPOINTE top, Allora by Laura Andersen’s Danish Bakery French Waffle
Anne Sisteron rings & bracelets LAPOINTE top, Allora by Laura
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Laykin et Cie citrine
Laykin et Cie necklace Sweet Wheel Farms eggs
Karina Brez Bit of LUV ring (on ring finger) Anne Sisteron rings & bracelets Sweet Wheel Farms snapdragons
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Vacheron Constantin Égérie Self-Winding 35mm Pink Gold Watch Laykin et Cie rings
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SB LIFE & STYLE travel
BAHAMAS EXPERIENCE the
ELEVEN EXPERIENCE’S BAHAMA HOUSE IS AN IDYLLIC HOME BASE FOR DISCOVERING PINK SAND BEACHES, CARIBBEAN CUISINE, AND DESERTED ISLANDS by OTTOCINA RYAN
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arm wind whips through my hair as we speed across crystal clear water, passing deserted white sand beaches inhabited only by tamarind trees. A pristine sandbar of paper-white ripples comes into view amidst ankle-deep Caribbean water. Captain Kristano beaches the boat, allowing my friends and I to wander freely. As if in a dream, we effortlessly spot sea stars and giant shells, popping with vibrance against the pale canvas.
We never would have found this uncharted fantasy without Eleven Experience’s seasoned guides. Not being much of a planner myself, I enlisted the adventure travel company to curate a thrilling and unforgettable Bahamas trip. Having previously experienced their unparalleled lodges in other parts of the world, I had no doubt we would be in good hands. The Bahama House hotel on Harbour Island would serve as our home base, guaranteeing the ideal balance of luxury and excitement. Captain Kristano helps us back on to Eleven Experience’s sleek 35’ Scorpion RIB. Our day of island hopping continues with turtle swimming near Grandfather’s Beach, snorkeling Cistern Rock, anchoring for fresh fish tacos at Sandbar Cafe, sunbathing on Man Island, and cliff jumping into the Sapphire Blue Hole—an azure pool in a limestone sinkhole on the neighboring island of Eleuthera. Throughout the day Captain Kristano offers tidbits of island history and culture, adding color and context to each stop.
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Eleven Experience's Bahama House
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Still laughing from the eventful day, we dock at Harbour Island alongside fishing boats and mega yachts. A quick twominute walk, and we’re back at Bahama House. Stepping through the property’s white gate feels like arriving at a friend’s home; one whose bougainvillea-enveloped peach colonial house embodies the lively, laid-back spirit of the island. Shell-framed mirrors adorn the walls, and every surface is piled with stacks of coffee table books. The stairwell is lined with sepia images depicting the owners’ family frolicking around the island—straight out of an Abercrombie campaign. There are enough plush couches to accommodate far beyond the occupancy of eleven rooms, and to cushion our fall from an unforgettable, adrenaline filled day. Après is a nightly occurrence, beginning around 6 when the sky becomes an impressionist painter experimenting with sorbet hues. The spin on happy hour is practiced at all the Eleven Experience properties; inspired by après ski, it translates perfectly to watching a glowing island sunset with a pina colada in hand. Tonight, drinks and appetizers are served on the upper deck, where the vantage point is unmatched for the wonder to come. Puffy clouds turn orange as we snack on conch fritters and lobster spring rolls, while sipping on Goombay Smash cocktails crafted by Robert, “The Doctor” (don’t think of calling him the bartender). Exhausted from the day’s activities, we opt for dinner in. We polish off a family style spread of traditional Bahamian dishes, from plantains to fried chicken, and barely leave room for the famed guava duff dessert. Steps away, I retreat to my room, amazed at all we did in just 12 hours. What would otherwise have been a whirlwind day, was effortless and exciting. When the logistics are handled by experts, energy can be reserved for the real fun. Prior to our arrival, I had a detailed call with the Experience Manager Giorgia, who crafted an itinerary aligned with my group’s preferences (from dietary to athletic ability). Best
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of all, she handled everything from the required health visas to securing secluded beach spots and reservations at the island’s most notable restaurants. At 9 a.m. I’m surprisingly first to breakfast. I help myself to the spread of yogurt, granola, fruit, and freshly baked pastries, and order today’s special: pillowy sweet potato pancakes with a side of bacon. Today is a leisure day. While Eleven Experience is known for their bespoke adventure-forward trips, they do relaxation just as well. We spend the morning lounging by the pool, and in the afternoon traverse the three-mile-long island in our rented golf cart. Sandy roads lead us past bright pink, purple, and orange colonial homes where chickens roam freely in yards. We pass by shops selling straw bags and other island-life essentials. We arrive at Eleven Experience’s remote stretch of Pink Sand Beach. We sunbathe and swim in the warm water, fascinated by the sand’s faintly pink hue (don’t let the fuchsia filtered Instagram posts deceive you). The hotel delivers lunch—mine
Eleven Experience's Bahama House
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“STEPPING THROUGH THE PROPERTY’S WHITE GATE FEELS LIKE ARRIVING AT A friend’s home; ONE WHOSE bougainvilleaENVELOPED PEACH COLONIAL HOUSE EMBODIES THE LIVELY, laid-back SPIRIT OF THE ISLAND.”
WHAT to PACK BAHAMIAN BLISS BASICS
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L* S PA C E S W I M S U I T TOP: $125 BOTTOM: $99
Give Bond Girl mentality in this not-so-basic black and white number. The universally flattering V-shape cutout and high-waisted bottoms will have you longing for your next morning (and afternoon, and evening) plunge. lspace.com
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After dinner we’re craving nightlife, and so, per various recommendations we wind up at Daddy D’s nightclub, a favorite for karaoke. Rainbow disco lights set the mood for strong drinks and stronger pitches. With each sip of my cocktail, I slip into the groove of the club, belting out Whitney Houston with the best of them. The scene is the epitome of a lively island watering hole—everyone is enjoying the local revelry, from regulars to tourists, and an off-duty Giorgia, whose twirls rule the dance floor. I sink into bed with a smile on my face. The itinerary detailing tomorrow’s lineup and weather rests on my nightstand, and after the last few days, it gives me full confidence that everything will go off without a hitch. For a trip with zero-planning, it may be the best one yet. * elevenexperience.com
$145
While the Bahamian sun is a blessing, its rays can be mercilessly harsh on skin. Don’t sweat it with Dr. Barbara Sturm Sun Drops, which are designed to shield against UVA and UVB rays, and infused with soothing and moisturizing properties. Its lightweight feel is perfect for sensitive skin…sayonara, sunburn. drsturm.com
is a salad with fresh caught mahi mahi—and makes sure we never run low on rosé. Who needs rose-colored glasses when reality is this good? Tonight, après is held in the rum library, where “The Doctor” leads an engaging and lively rum tasting. For dinner, we opt for the deck of Da Vine Sushi & Wine Bar, run by Nobu alums. Cult favorites like the Spicy Tuna Sticky Rice and Miso Cod, and rolls incorporating conch and other local seafood, have us ordering more and more even once we’re full. It’s the kind of place where taste exceeds the allure of a decadent menu.
D R . B A R B A R A ST U R M SUN DROPS SPF 50
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SHOO FOR GOOD CAMELLIA WRAP $140
Pesky mosquitoes invading your sunset stroll? Say goodbye to insect spray with this collection of super-soft scarves, wraps, and throws with built-in bug repellent technology. Focused on giving back, Shoo for Good donates a percentage of proceeds to Nothing but Nets, a UN campaign dedicated to fighting malaria. shooforgood.com and Field + Fort
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A M A N U L E AT H E R CORD WRAP SANDAL $250
No sandal could be more deserving of a tropical vacation than this deep emerald wrap pair. With a black sole that will stay looking pristine, they’ll take you from point A to point B in the most understated luxurious fashion. amanustudio.com by ALEXANDRA LEE
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Equinox Hotel 84 | MARCH/APRIL 2022
EMPIRE state of mind ARCHITECTURAL AWE, SKYLINE DINING, AND HIGH END SHOPPING AT HUDSON YARDS by ELIZA KRPOYAN
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lot happens when you leave New York City for any length of time. “What’s different?” You’ll ask yourself. You’ll muse, was there scaffolding on this building that’s come down? Or in the case of Hudson Yards an entirely new neighborhood materialized. Spanning two zip codes, the $25 billion private real estate development is a masterwork of engineering. The development is built on two platforms atop 30 active Long Island Railroad train tracks. Manhattan’s newest neighborhood is 28-acres of residences, offices, public art, restaurants, shops, and more. Ahead, where to stay, dine, and wander.
The 212-room hotel features a 24th-floor restaurant, Electric Lemon, where you can dine al fresco on the terrace and take in views of the Hudson River and Hudson Yards. Or opt for in-room dining, which comes from the Electric Room kitchen. The menu is heavily weighted with healthy options including super food bowls, a staple avocado toast with functional ingredients including spelt bread and a seed crumble, and a brain fuel smoothie blended with date, flaxseed, ashwagandha, orange blossom, and almond milk. You can go the opposite direction and enjoy chicken fingers with fries from the comfort food section. I recommend both.
If you’ve watched Succession, 35 Hudson Yards may sound familiar. That’s because the 90th floor penthouse belonged to Kendall Roy. In real life the penthouse is available for just under a casual $50 million. Adjacent to the residences is first of its kind five-star, Equinox Hotel. Similar to its residential counterpart, a doorman greets you on the first floor. After you check in at the 25th floor lobby, you go in and out as though you’re a resident, and not a guest.
The property also boasts the largest Equinox Fitness Club ever built. It features a 25-yard indoor saltwater pool, plunge pools, an outdoor leisure pool, and The Spa by Equinox Hotels. Technologyforward treatments include Cryotherapy Full Body, Infrared Sauna, and Quantum Harmonics Brain and Body Boost that aim to deliver three hours of sleep in a 30-minute sound therapy session. In ‘the city that never sleeps,’ I’ll take it!
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From your room, you’ll get an aerial view of Vessel. The public landmark is a spiral staircase of 154 interconnecting flights of stairs. This work of art is among the architectural astonishments in the area.
Alternatively you can choose to enjoy the views from the highest outdoor observation deck known as Edge. Perched on the 100th floor is a 7,500-square-foot outdoor viewing area that extends 80-feet out. The deck features a glass floor delivering breathtaking views of the city. And if you look up from Edge, you can watch City “Climbers” lean back into the sky, while you’re enclosed in 9-foot tall angled glass.
“Perched on the 100th floor is a 7,500-square-foot outdoor viewing area that extends 80-feet out. The deck features a glass floor delivering breathtaking views of the city.”
A third way you can take in the views from 30 Hudson Yards, and the one that speaks to me the most, is by dining at the building’s 101st floor restaurant Peak. Here, executive Chef Christopher Cryer, who previously held the same title at Seamore’s, offers American fare. Dishes range from beef short ribs, black truffle bucatini, and Atlantic scallops. And those were merely the appetizers. For mains there’s filet mignon, celery root wellington, Maine lobster, and halibut.
Electric Lemon Avocado Toast
There’s also The Shops and Restaurants at Hudson Yards designed by the acclaimed Elkus Manfredi Architects (behind The Grove in Los Angeles; Americana in Glendale, and The Shops at Columbus Circle at Time Warner). Here, you can shop designers to the likes of Dior and Cartier. Or drop in for a casual bite at Blue Stone Lane, an espresso at Blue Bottle, or a Spanish fixe at one of Mercado Little Spain’s eateries. Do not leave Hudson Yards without trying a maple cruller from Daily Provisions. The deep-fried decadent breakfast pastry is shaped like a donut, and tastes similar to a churro. It’ll undoubtedly have you going back for more, possibly every day. While you’re there try one of the city’s most notable egg sandwiches too. Fortunately, if you’re staying at nearby Equinox Hotel, you’ll have plenty of ways to burn it off (not that it’s necessary). * hudsonyardsnewyork.com | equinox-hotels.com
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Equinox Hotel pool
Photo by Matt Taylor Gross
Another amazement is 1300-foot-tall 30 Hudson Yards. Ever dreamed of scaling a 101-story skyscraper? I haven’t either. But if you’re an adventure seeker whose palms don’t get clammy from the thought of it, then you should add City Climb to your bucket list. Touted as the highest open-air building ascent in the world, guides lead small groups through a series of open-air platforms and stairs along the perimeter of the skyscraper.
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Waking up the
WILD WEST
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GALLIVANTING GOLD COUNTRY AT ACME HOSPITALITY’S HISTORIC BOUTIQUE HOTELS by ALEXANDRA LEE
GALLIVANTING GOLD COUNTRY AT ACME HOSPITALITY’S HISTORIC BOUTIQUE HOTELS by ALEXANDRA LEE
Holbrooke Hotel @ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 89
S
itting atop my private balcony at the two-story Holbrooke Hotel (the tallest building in sight), I imagine the road below filled with outlaws, cowboys, and rebellious youth that once pulled up stools at the saloon across the street. I’m in the Wild West, though the complimentary wine I’m sipping has put me in a rather serene state. I’m holed up in the Presidential Suite, which, I later learn, has actually slept five presidents. Psychics, ghost hunters, and gold rush junkies alike share my fondness for this destination, in search of all that is peculiar about these unforgotten Gold Rush towns.
Santa Barbara’s very own Acme Hospitality recently undertook an authentic remodel of its two historic boutique hotels, the Holbrooke and National Exchange, respectively located in Grass Valley and Nevada City, California. These charming towns appear to have jumped out of a Western movie set, but in reality they’ve barely changed since the 1850s. A walk through old town is a fortuitous juxtaposition of scenes from the present and past. Crystal shops stand next to gluten-free bakeries, the antiquated Del Oro theatre presents the latest Spiderman flick. Usually a sunchasing traveler, I embrace a newfound appreciation for the poetry of crisp air, tall trees, and lights glowing brighter against a gray sky. The Holbrooke Hotel is designed with painstaking attention to century-old details, without skimping on modern luxury. History quite literally seeps from the exposed brick walls—a QR code setup is being planned for visitors to enjoy self-guided tours through the properties. Lucky for us, we get a personal tour from resident historian Anthony Jones. “We’re docents first, everything else second,” he remarks as we stroll the halls, stopping to point out everything from Mark Twain’s old room to where multiple ghost hauntings (beware Room 15!) have occurred. Acme’s three-year remodel has produced an environment more authentic to the ethos of the era than perhaps the era itself. The wooden frame of the Golden Gate Saloon, imported from Italy, predates the Golden Gate bridge. Black and white photographs of stallions with their owners hang in the Purcell Carriage House, which formerly sheltered the horses of Wells Fargo Bank. These are the stomping grounds of a young President Hoover, who pushed ore carts as a teenager in the mining town.
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Golden Gate Saloon at Holbrooke Hotel
“ACME’S THREE-YEAR REMODEL has produced AN ENVIRONMENT MORE AUTHENTIC to the ETHOS of THE ERA THAN perhaps THE ERA ITSELF.”
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The Holbrooke’s menu is nuanced, crafted with Mexican flair. To embrace the masculine, rugged spirit of the hotel I stray from my usual fruity cocktail and opt for a Winter in the Rye. It’s strong and bold, like the Wild West. Mouthwatering birria with achiote rice provides hearty flavor, paired with a local pear salad and flavorful side of warmed olives and almonds. Dessert is a decadent, spongy slice of tres leches topped with an intriguing layer of tangy maroon dust. “Is it raspberry?” we ask the waitress as she returns. We’ve never had anything like it. “Hibiscus powder” she winks. Last at the Golden Gate Saloon bar, we toast champagne to the rediscovery of NorCal’s roots.
“Adorned with luxurious golds and dark florals, this property is a nod to the frisky yet enigmatic side of the Gold Rush’s female figures.”
Photo by Ingrid Nelson
Downstairs libations pour a-plenty at the Iron Door, a former speakeasy whose thick metal doors functioned to keep stragglers out of the gold mines. My mind wanders…could my own precious discovery lie buried on the other side? Post tour we take a siesta on the balcony, cheersing North Yuba 2020 Cecelia and testing chocolates as a light appetizer.
enigmatic side of the Gold Rush’s female figures. The hotel is quite literally regarded as a “dame,” evident in regards to the red velvet upholstery and moody lighting that accompanies quirky portraits of 1850s theatre women. The goal with respect to the National’s spirit is notoriety rather than esteem, a celebration of those who dared to be different…consider Lola restaurant’s namesake: provocateur Eliza Gilbert, alias Lola Montez.
Lola’s daring persona is embodied in the plush deep teal of the dining room and dark allure of the National Bar, crafted from golden radiators that equipped the original rooms. Our decadent French-inspired feast is nothing In the morning we pack our bags, the soft light begging short of exquisite. We dip our rolls in French onion soup, us to pull up one last stool for a helping of Chorizo and smear radishes with salted butter, and spy profiteroles Potatoes, and the chef ’s take on Huevos Rancheros with on the dessert menu. Standouts include the buttery thin refried cranberry beans. All of an eight-minute drive Beef Carpaccio, as suggested by the chef—dotted with later, we’ve arrived at our next Gold Rush town, our tangy mustard seed, rosemary cream, and pomegranate, lingering hours before check-in naturally spent with a the dish is a gastronomic delight. Ricotta pappardelle tasting at Nevada City Winery. Mindful to save room with fresh sage is followed by Coq Au Vin Blanc, an for dinner, we polish off our glasses and arrive at the umami pleasure with flavors of chanterelle, lardons, Holbrooke’s Victorian sister, the National Exchange. pearl onion, and sweet potato in a light white wine sauce. Figuring one dessert is insufficient, the chef emerges During our next rendezvous with tour guide Anthony, with three plates. Chocolate tart, cheesecake, and he explains that the hotel is dubbed the “exchange” profiteroles wash down easily with a glass of Lillet Blanc. for its past lives as both a post office and bank, and now operates in an exchange with the public as a More cocktails are downed at the National Bar, where historical museum. Adorned with luxurious golds and I imagine locals of Nevada City’s Gold Rush stopping dark florals, this property is a nod to the frisky yet for a drink or a drag at their favorite watering hole. Egg
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The Grand Lounge at National Exchange
white foam tops the Hawthorne, a refreshing cocktail of lemon and ginger rum. We warm up with a Queen Anne, a tea-infused brandy drink that could cure any winter blues. We tuck away to our room, sneaking past the golden opulence of the Grand Lounge. Morning arrives a little too quickly, signaling the end of our stay. Tricking myself into the necessity of consuming more rich food, the only natural choice for breakfast is the Croque Madame, drowned in the best béchamel I’ve
ever had. Fingerlings with aioli and a glazed blueberry scone with lemon curd escort our main dishes until they, too, have disappeared. My definition of a perfect morning. The mischievous heart and spirit of the Wild West, we’ve learned, belongs to everyone. It’s a place where prospectors once became rich, and where the modern-day adventurer can no doubt reinvent themselves as they cross the threshold of the saloon. Until next time, Gold Country. * thenationalexchangehotel.com / holbrooke.com @ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 93
AN ESCAPADE TO THE SUMMIT OF SPLENDOR IN VAIL, COLORADO by ANNA CONSTANTINO
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EAKING I gaze out the window, a dreamlike blanket of snow sweeping the mountain tops, my unadulterated enthusiasm heightening as we descend over Colorado. A smooth flight amidst the Rockies lands us on the outskirts of Vail, which envelops world-class skiing, postcard worthy mountains, and the best hot cocoa in existence. Flurries from above grace our arrival as we hop into a taxi and head towards Vail’s charming alpine villages.
A craving for the cold–rather, a longing for snow, sparked this “cabinweekend” despite my relative inability to ski without tumbling and lack of warm garments living in my closet. Nevertheless, my agent at Santa Barbara Travel Bureau reassured me that if there was a time to go to Vail, it’s now; the ski season is at its prime, and an incoming storm would promise pristine powder (even for a novice). The taxi twists and turns up the hills approaching Homestake Circle, arriving at our home away from home: a dreamy contemporary five-bedroom chalet on the Vail Golf Course. The property is listed with Pacaso, a real estate company that offers impeccably decorated split-ownership second homes in the most desirable destinations. We step through the doors and up the staircase, which pours us out into the panoramic living room. The warm hearth blazes beside a gargantuan wood centerpiece. The wow-factor is unparalleled. I set @ S B L I F E A N D S T Y L E | 95
Pacaso Property
out a charcuterie plate to graze on while lounging in an irresistibly soft Tibetan lambskin chair, as my friend Ottocina and I play a game of backgammon. I make myself a cup of tea, then draw a bubble bath in the egg-shaped soaking tub. I feel right at home.
“GOLDEN LIGHT FLOODS THE ROOM, AWAKENING ME. I’M MESMERIZED BY THE BIRDS HOPPING BETWEEN TREE BRANCHES AS I PEEK OUT OF THE DUVET. ”
A pink dusk sweeps the sky as we venture A shopping spree downtown and a stroll out on the town. What starts off as a alongside picturesque Gore Creek fills brisk walk soon evolves into a bar crawl the morning. Everything within town is beginning with moscow mules at La Nonna easy walking distance from our home. and ending with several spicy margaritas a Come afternoon we pack up, wanting to block over at El Segundo. We’re enveloped make an offer on a remaining share of the in the buzzing après-ski (minus the ski). Pacaso property, and make our way to the We land at Lancelot, a steakhouse and local Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail. favorite, for delicious comfort food from roasted cauliflower to maple glazed salmon. The hotel’s stunning guest rooms and suites intermingle with 22 private residences equipped with hot tubs, stocked bars, and Golden light floods the room, awakening magnificent mountain-views. We are greeted me. I’m mesmerized by the birds hopping by champagne and strawberries upon arrival between tree branches as I peek out of the duvet. I am lured downstairs by to our suite, the perfect afternoon snack to the scent of breakfast wafting up the accompany my entrancing balcony-view of stairwell, soon to be enjoyed by the fire. skiers and boarders flying down the mountain.
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A desire to explore beyond Vail’s quaint villages for sunset brings us to the valet, where our trusty steed–a tundra-white Mercedes G-Class house car–awaits us. We wind through towering red rocks, pit-stopping along the way to explore Glenwood Springs and make friends with a hospitable raft of ducks. We catch the changing sky on the road and return in time to squeeze in a jacuzzi session before dinner at on-property steakhouse Flame Restaurant.
Four Seasons Vail
I sip a St. Germain elixir, awaiting an array of appetizers. The first to arrive is the 7X Ranch Wagyu Beef Fat Candle, a show for the eyes and taste buds. Chef Marcus Stewart’s signature is torched and melted down accompanied by huckleberry jam and spiced salt, which I promptly mop up with steaming butter rolls. I continue the play on sweet and salty with the Charred Fall Squash soup, with hints of asian pear, sage, and mole marshmallow atop. Our starters are swapped for a seafood feast consisting of Crispy Tempura Ahi Rolls, Pan Seared Scallops with dashi butter, and Seared Halibut. We end on a sweet note, the favorite dessert of the evening being the Goat Cheese Cheesecake with fig ice cream and pistachio crumble–or as I like to call it, a cheese boardturns-dessert. We sip tea by the outdoor fire pits until slumbering in preparation for a day of skiing.
Haut Chocolat at Four Seasons Vail
A knock on the door–ah yes, my favorite sound. The indisputably wonderful thing about room service is being able to devour a plate of s’mores waffles in nothing but a bathrobe without people giving you a “look.” I pour a copper pot of the resort’s renowned Haut Chocolate over a fluffy marshmallow, plunging it into the pool of chocolate shavings in my cup. I nod out of my food-coma when Vail Sports arrives for our in-room ski fittings, a far more convenient alternative to trudging through the snow for rentals. We walk off breakfast in the village and suit up at the Four Seasons Ski Concierge; there’s nothing left to do but beeline straight for Gondola One. I stand before the mountain in awe–a force to be reckoned with to say the least. Boasting a long season and endless terrain including seven back bowls, one could ski or board for weeks and only discover a fraction of the mountain. A picturesque ride through the aspens takes us to chairlift 14, bringing us to the summit. I stand before a panorama of landscape dotted with pines and nothing but a sheer drop below me. The scene takes my breath away–literally and figuratively. After all, we’ve reached eleven-thousand feet. I click into my skis, preparing myself physically and mentally to plunge, adrenaline rising. I look both ways, a pause of hesitation. I dial back in and thrust myself downward, the cool air skimming my face, sunshine sparkling through the trees. I glide through the powder, an ethereal groove overtaking my body–there’s no feeling like it. I suppose it’s all downhill from here. Pacaso.com | fourseasons.com/vail | sbtravel.com
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48 HOURS
DAY 1 BREAKFAST
Fuel your morning with an Avocado Rillette and espresso from quaint artisanal cafe Merci Montecito. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, opt for the lemon cake or zucchini bread. @mercimontecito
SHOP
Stock up on home essentials at The Gatehouse, one of Rosewood Miramar Beach’s many upscale boutiques featuring an array of oneof-a-kind clothing, home accessories and toys curated by James Perse. @rosewoodmiramarbeach
ZOO
DAY 2
Chilean flamingos, African lions, Masai giraffes–oh my! Stroll throughout the enthralling Santa Barbara Zoo, a 30-acre park home to more than 146 species of mammals, reptiles, birds, and insects. With sweeping views of the Pacific and Santa Ynez
Start the day at Santa Barbara’s first plant-based market, Plnt Pwrd in Montecito, for a diverse selection of vegan foods and healthy drinks. @plntpwrdmrkt
Get a bird’s eye view of the American Riviera’s natural beauty with Eagle Paragliding. Admire glistening waters, terracotta roofs, and mesmerizing vistas from an elevated vantage point–an experience sure to spark inspiration. @eagleparagliding by KIM HASHEMI 98 | MARCH/APRIL 2022
mountains, the attraction features a 26-foot rock climbing wall, Zoo Train, and the Ridley-Tree Animal Kitchen (a behind the scenes look into the food-prep for the Zoo’s 500+ animals). Be sure to make a reservation for the new Australian Walkabout exhibit to get up close with the kangaroos. @santabarbarazoo
DINE
Toast to a memorable weekend with a glass of chardonnay and savor a hearty Macho Salad at The Honor Bar Montecito situated on Coast Village Road. @honorbarmontecito
LUNCH
MARKET
PARAGLIDE
in Santa Barbara
GIFT
Peruse Montecito Mercantile, sister store to Bainbridge Island’s cherished Salt House Mercantile. Stocked with housewares, gifts, magazines, and apothecary from heritage and emerging brands as well as local artisans, you’re sure to find a keepsake to display in your home or gift to a loved one. @montecitomercantile
Keep your senses heightened with a half dozen fresh oysters and a renowned lobster roll from Broad Street Oyster. With strong roots in Malibu, the newly opened State Street restaurant immerses visitors in riveting coastal flavors. @broadstreetoysterco
DINE
Delight your taste buds with handmade pasta and a glass of Rosso Di Montepulciano at Aperitivo. The hole in the wall highlights Santa Barbara’s seasonal ingredients crafted into authentic Italian dishes and wine pairings
STAY
Check-in to Martyn Lawrence Bullard’s jewel box, the idyllic oceanfront Hotel Californian charmed with Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and Moroccan influences. Bask in an enchanting sunset from your private Juliet balcony and end the evening with a blissful swim overlooking the ocean. @hotelcalifornian
expertly selected from Italy’s 20 regions. If you’re longing for more, consider Aperitivo’s Pasta Vino Club–a weekly shipment of handmade pasta with ready-to-use sauce made in-house, paired with wine. @aperitivo_sb
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