2019 Special Travel Issue Texas Lifestyle Magazine

Tuscany p. 16 New Zealand p. 28 London & the Cotswolds p. 10 Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula p.52 Lands of the Midnight Sun p. 24 plus Acapulco p. 34

B R O A D M O O R F LY F I S H I N G | S A V A N N A H | N E W M E X I C O

Each stay helps support the ÀNI Art Academies, a non-profit art school

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A COLLECTION OF PRIVATE RESORTS

FAMILY ESCAPES, MILESTONE CELEBRATIONS, CORPORATE RETREATS

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CON T EN T S

10

10

JET SETTER LONG HAUL

34

JET SETTER MEXICO

46

JET SETTER COSTA RICA

4 Texas Lifestyle Magazine | Special Travel Issue 2019-20

A Great Trip to Great Britain 10 Travel Exclusively to Tuscany 16 Land of the Midnight Sun with Windstar Cruises 24 When Should You Visit New Zealand? 28

The New Acapulco 34 Grand Velas Los Cabos — Pacific Paradise 36 Magical Mahekal Beach Resort 40 6 Reasons to Escape to Heaven 44

Costa Rica: Living the Dream Down South 46

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SPECIAL TRAVEL ISSUE 2019-20

PUBLISHER

Doug Flatt

EDITORIA L TEA M E D I TO R - I N - C H I E F

Julie Tereshchuk T R AV E L E D I TO R

Marika Flatt E D I TO R I A L A S S I S TA N T S

Lisa Davis Cullen Parker Sarah Wilson SOCIAL MEDIA

Callie Pierce CO N T R I B U TO R S

Leslie Barrett Emily Bond Samantha Cook Gabi De la Rosa Sue Durio Heidi Gollub Haven Lindsey Brian Maass Dana Maass Alicia Saba

52

58

A RT & PRODUCTION GR APHIC DESIGNER

Kim Hudson WEB DESIGN

52 80

Sundaram Design

JET SETTER STATESIDE

SA LES & M A RKETING

Exploring Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula 52 Al Fresco Art in Sioux Falls 54 Traverse City, Michigan: Year-Round Playground 56 Ski Colorado: Winter Park & Steamboat Springs 58 The Broadmoor Fly Fishing Camp 62 Telluride: The Ultimate Rocky Mountain High 66 Savannah, Georgia: An A+ in Southern Charm 70 New Mexico Captures the Old Spirit Like No Other 72 Clearwater & St. Pete, Florida 76

ROAD TRIP

Rhonda Jenkins

ADVERTISING, JOBS & IN TERNSHIPS I N FO @ T E X A S L I F E S T Y L E M AG .CO M

LET TERS TO THE EDITOR EDITOR@TEX ASLIFEST YLEMAG .COM

TEXAS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE IS TEXAS-OWNED AND -OPERATED, PUBLISHED BY TL PUBLISHING, LLC © On the cover: Bergen, Norway. Photo courtesy Windstar Cruises

A Little Lubbock Love 80 Rockin’ B Ranch for a Hill Country Wedding Weekend 82

TEXASLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE.COM Special Travel Issue 2019-20 | texaslifestylemagazine.com 5

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

A Great Trip to Great Britain

By Marika Flatt

Looking down on the Thames and Tower Bridge at sunrise.

THE COTS WO L D S A N D LON DON PR OVI DE BE AUT I FUL BAC K DRO P A few years ago, I promised my daughter we’d take a big trip to celebrate her high school graduation. We discussed a few locations, like Australia and New Zealand, but she’s fascinated by London. I crowdsourced ideas on Facebook and the overwhelming majority said we must visit the Cotswolds, too. Hence, the trip of a lifetime ensued.

The Cotswolds is made up of 800 square miles of adorable English villages and towns, each with their own distinct

10 Texas Lifestyle Magazine | Special Travel Issue 2019-20

personality. Back in mediaeval times, the Cotswolds (which means sheep pen), had a thriving woolen industry; wool from Cotswold sheep is still known for its high quality. The unspoilt cottages, bubbling brooks and specialist shops make the Cotswolds a fun destination to explore. However, there’s limited train service so you need to either rent a car from London or hire a driver from the likes of Chirton Grange. (Well worth the investment for ease, comfort and local knowledge.)

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

The Gainsborough Bath Spa is comfortable luxury at its best.

The hotel, which features 99 rooms and, in former times, was both a hospital and art college, opened in 2015. Their NYC-based designer worked wonders, with deep gold and black furnishings in the rooms, full-size high-end chocolate bars as pillow treats and heated bathroom floors. (Our bathroom had two separate showers.)

Having kept the original Georgian design of the old buildings, the “hero of the house” is the Village Spa underneath, where guests can “take the waters.” The bath house circuit starts with a warm balneo pool soak, followed by the cool lymphatic hose, time in the infrared dry sauna (known to kill fat cells), the lavender ice alcove, and finally, floating in the main atrium pool as long as you like.

The hotel’s vintage bar will transport you back to the days of swing dancing and martinis, the perfect cocktail lounge before heading across the hall to a five-star dinner at Dan Moon restaurant, named for the executive chef. The dinner begins with a bread basket, offering the most delicious bread in our three weeks in Europe. A three to seven course dinner follows, highlighting the best locally-sourced produce, meat and fish. Start with sauteed scallops with shellfish risotto, king prawn and seaweed; move on to a roasted lamb with black pudding croquette, and end with a salted caramel tart.

The restaurant at Cowley Manor really impresses, with a blend of gourmet and comfort food. Dinner begins with grain bread, served with asparagus mousse butter. Move on to enjoy a goat cheese salad, artichoke ravioli and steamed broccoli with honey soy and pine nuts.

For breakfast, I recommend avocado toast on the terrace, with an unforgettable view.

Another manor turned into a hotel is Lords of the Manor Hotel in Upper Slaughter. (Lower Slaughter is a mere mile away; the Slaughters are one of several pairs of intriguingly named hamlets in the area, including Lower and Upper Swell, and Great and Little Tew.) Built in 1649 and formerly a rectory, the hotel began in 1972 with 28 rooms, which were recently refurbished. The hotel sits on eight acres and the village is a picturesque walkabout. Dining at the hotel restaurant will span several courses, much like the lords and ladies of the manors would have.

For an absorbing day out, head to Blenheim Palace and tour the overwhelming property that is home to the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Take a self-guided audio tour through the many rooms featuring furnishings from centuries ago. My personal favorite was the long library, housing over 10,000 books, said to be the second largest room in England.

markus leo /unsplash

B AT H -- a 1 hour 20 minute train ride from London -- with its rich history and beautiful architecture is a fabulous jumping-off place to begin your Cotswold journey. When the Romans settled this ancient city they created the now-famous eponymous baths as public spaces around the abundant thermal hot springs of the area.

Make time on your visit for the Savouring Bath walking food tour through town. The tour makes up to a dozen stops at independently owned foodie businesses around Bath. From the eco-baker at Thoughtful Bakery to Swoon gelato, stops might also include a tea shop, Asian cuisine, a chocolatier and more.

With its rich history and beautiful architecture, Bath is a fabulous jumping-off point for your Cotswold journey.

courtesy photo

Head on down the road to Cheltenham and stay at one of the most beautifully manicured properties I’ve ever seen, Cowley Manor (owned by Curious Hotels). Many of the historic Cotswold manor houses, built by the rich merchants and landed gentry of the area, have been turned into hotels, such as this one, which sits on a gorgeous 55 acres. Lewis Carroll visited Cowley Manor many times and is said to have penned his famous “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” on the property, inspired by the setting.

The rooms in the main manor building are spacious with oversized bathrooms (ours had one of the most unique showers I’ve seen) but there’s no air conditioning. However, with a fan and windows open, we slept comfortably. The grounds are a sight to be seen, with colorful hammocks, a lake that cascades down a stone waterway, and various odes adding to the “Alice” feel.

C-Side Spa at the manor is a treat unto itself. Book a massage, which is followed by hot tea in the relaxation area, and leave plenty of time to enjoy the luxurious indoor and outdoor pools. The steam room, sauna and drench showers are also a must, and perfect after a day in the car or walking around the Cotswolds.

Savoring Bath's food tours will leave you feeling full and with a satisfied sweet tooth.

(Continued on page 12)

Special Travel Issue 2019-20 | texaslifestylemagazine.com 11

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul (Continued from page 11)

Tour around the Cotswolds S T O W- O N - T H E -W O L D

TETBURY

Known as the center of the Cotswolds, enjoy antique shops, high tea and vintage pubs here. Have lunch at Old Stocks Inn in their backyard garden. Start with olives and bread (served with honey and poppyseed butter made fresh in their kitchen), paired with a pinot grigio. Then move on to the creamy risotto or pizza from their wood fired oven.

“Have a nose around” (as the Brits say) in a delightful town featuring beautiful gardens, resale and thrift shops, and the Highgrove Shop, an offshoot of Highgrove Royal Gardens, owned by Prince Charles.

The inn has been open 4 years, has 16 rooms plus a 3-bedroom self-catering cottage. When it’s “grotty” (translation: bad weather) outside, watch Netflix on your TV, enjoy goodies complimentary from your fridge, and bathe with their “aromatherapy smellers.”

They have four grades of rooms and be careful of their “wonky” (aka crooked) stairs.

B O U R T O N - O N - T H E -WAT E R This delightful village has a narrow shallow stream running through its center, and on a pretty day, folks will gather on the grassy banks reading books, licking ice-cream or just catching up.

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CIRENCESTER The largest town in the Cotswolds hosts a lovely local market on Friday mornings outside the church in the market square, with a smaller market in the Corn Hall. Cirencester is a thriving town with Roman origins. Visit the award-winning Corinium Museum where you can experience life as a Roman and marvel at stunning mosaics. The town has a vibrant arts center, beautiful abbey grounds, independent shops and an incredible history to explore.

CHIPPING CAMPDEN Nestled in the valley below Dover’s Hill, the town has been at the heart of the arts and crafts movement since 1902. Explore the Old Silk Mill and other museums.

(Continued on page 14)

courtesy photo

blenheim palace

courtesy photo

courtesy photo

visit tetbury

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

Photos: (top left, clockwise) Tetbury is a picturesque town in the Cotswolds with many shops, perfect for an afternoon visit. Highgrove, Prince Charles’ private home with its stunning gardens, is nearby. // The C-Side spa at Cowley Manor is the perfect place to relax during a visit to the Cotswolds. // Bourton House, an 18th century manor house, is an example of the many elegant and historic buildings you’ll discover in the Cotswolds. // Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning gardens and beautiful architecture.

The Cotswolds has long been known for its woolen trade, and herds of sheep still dot many of the rolling hillsides.

Special Travel Issue 2019-20 | texaslifestylemagazine.com 13

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

visit britain/andrew pickett

#LondonLove

From the Victoria Tower at the Palace of Westminster you can see across the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben’s clock tower, the River Thames and Westminster Bridge to the London Eye in the distance.

(Continued from page 13)

We made our way into the big city of London and were told that a couple of days was a drop in the bucket. Little did we know how true that statement was until we hit town! So much to see and do in so little time! After a few test runs, we got the hang of getting around on the Tube (subway). London is a large city so it depends on what part of town you’re staying in as to how long you’ll walk to the nearest Tube station.

(Ours was about a 12-minute walk away.) Those iconic red London buses are also a great way to get around.

The area of East London called Shoreditch was long a downtrodden area, populated early on by workers from the countryside and then immigrants from Europe and beyond who flocked to London seeking refuge. However, in recent years, it has gentrified, becoming hipster central with renovated millennial hangouts, like the dance club under Pizza East, and trendy artistic hotels like CitizenM Shoreditch.

Graffiti is no longer a bad word around this hotel; it’s embraced and appreciated (think: a myriad of Instagrammable spots within blocks). There’s no front desk and everything from check in to check out is automated. Rooms are based on the “tiny house” concept so it’s the most compact room I’ve

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ever seen: the bed is built into the walls so you can only get out on one side; and the toilet/ shower area is a pod design, with the vanity in the hallway of the room. Everything, from the black-out shade to lighting and mood music, is controlled from an iPad next to the bed.

While in Shoreditch, enjoy the four-hour Secret Food Tour, walking you through a tasting of the many cuisines in the neighborhood. Our first stop was at Beigel Bake to enjoy their bagel sandwiches. We moved on from that treat to a chocolatier, a fish and chip shop and a craft beer pub, just to name a few. Our tour guides were full of great stories and lots of laughs.

The London Eye is a worldwide tourist attraction beside Westminster Bridge. With 32 pods, it’s the fourth largest ferris wheel in the world, with views over the River Thames. Pop over the day before, or go online, and buy your ticket for the following day. Splurge on the Fast Pass; it’s worth it when the line is hours long!

The Hop-on Hop-off Golden Tours bus is a great way to see a myriad of sights, allowing you to ride many different

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

routes and stop off as you choose. See the likes of Fleet Street (the former beating heart of Britain’s printing and publishing industry), St. Paul’s Cathedral, and many of the WWII bomb sites.

T O P R E S TA U R A N T S : sabrina mazzeo /unsplash

Sketch, where those “in the know” book a reservation months in advance, is the most intriguing spot for afternoon tea, with eye candy and pizzazz galore! From their perfectly plush pink chairs to the trio of string instruments playing catchy tunes, this experience is a delight for all your senses. Every little detail exudes an Alice in Wonderland theme. The beautiful menus walk you through ordering hot teas to be enjoyed with your delicious sandwiches, pastries and desserts. The toilets in the highly Instagrammable bathroom are white pods with fluorescent colored lighting creating their own show.

May Fair Kitchen is a superb spot for a delicious shared meal of the Italian and Meditteranean variety. The environment is chic and the food is A+, including Tomato and Mozzarella Arancini, Burrata Pugliese, Pecorino and Truffle Tortellini, and Wild Mushroom Risotto. The tapas were ideal to share among four, and perfectly paired with a robust cabernet.

visitbritain/tommaso fogliata

For a real treat, dine at the posh Bob Bob Ricard in bustling Soho. The low lighting, the pale pink menus, decor, bow ties and the ambiance are perfect matches for the unique “champagne buttons” at each table. (“Push here for champagne.”) Order scrumptious English and Russian classic dishes such as Egg St. Petersburg, Truffle Potato and Mushroom Vareniki, Chicken, Mushroom & Champagne Pie (does not taste like booze!) or their Beef Wellington. Nosh on sides of Pearl Barley Kasha and Pickled Forest Mushrooms or Truffled Fries. Each course could and should be paired with champagne, a chilled chardonnay or even a fresh strawberry and peach bellini.

visit britain/julian elliot

VISITBRITAIN.COM

Photos: (above) London’s iconic Westminster Abbey is mere steps from the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. // (top right) Iconic London: Taxi cabs, red buses, Union flags. // (bottom right) The Churchill Arms is one of London’s best places to get a delicious meal.

Special Travel Issue 2019-20 | texaslifestylemagazine.com 15

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

Travel Exclusively

Exclusive Resorts Puts the World at Members’ Fingertips

By Marika Flatt

I

t’s the group that all the cool kids want to get into! Exclusive Resorts is a club where members purchase a set number of days per year (an average of 30) and can book up to two years out. (Unlike other clubs that only open up one year at a time.)

Exclusive Resorts has homes all over the world (and are adding more all the time), many in the U.S. and Caribbean -- but think the Amalfi Coast in the summer!

Club members include, among others, CEOs and presidents of companies and the average age is younger than you might think. A typical member might be 35-70 years old, but a lot of young families are also taking advantage of the convenient service. The club sees a wide range in their membership profile, and busy working parents are a popular demographic. Members who purchase a long-term arrangement (such as

16 Texas Lifestyle Magazine | Special Travel Issue 2019-20

a 30-year membership) are allowed to pass the membership on to family members, and members are allowed to gift up to one week per year. (Now that’s a generous wedding gift!)

The ambassador and concierge features of Exclusive Resorts are a big draw, due to the ease of planning a vacation (especially for those high net worth adults with busy jobs and little free time). You’re assigned

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

Are you right for the club?

Exclusive Resorts caters to a certain type of traveler:

exclusive resorts

Do you like to plan far in advance for your vacays? Or, do you fly by the seat of your pants? In order to get the homes/ villas/location you want, you need to plan and get that destination booked many months ahead.

Do you like others to plan your trip and take care of the details? Or are you someone who wants a hand in every pot of planning? Members love that someone else coordinates any and all reservations.

Do you want to invest in experiential travel? People place various priorities on how they want to spend their money.

Exclusive Resorts members are investing in travel that will unfold for years to come.

Do you enjoy traveling with others?

Exclusive Resorts homes tend to be large and in charge. Members often travel with families, other couples or groups of some type. The smallest “rental” is two bedrooms.

Exclusive Resorts lets members choose from a wide variety of accommodations.

an ambassador who really gets to know you and your family. S/he works directly with the concierge at a location to make sure your trip is planned down to the smallest detail.

For instance, a grocery list is emailed ahead of time so your preferred food/drink can be waiting for you in your house/villa when you arrive. Vacationers can choose to cook their own meals or have a personal chef prepare meals and clean up.

Break it down: During a phone call, your ambassador will find out what you hope to get out of the trip, what activities you’d like to do while there, if you’ll be celebrating any type of anniversary or other special time. That information will be passed on to your concierge who will make all necessary reservations during your stay. This might include hiring a driver (a day full of wineries in Tuscany, perhaps?), reserving bikes, scheduling a tour of a nearby

city, or even having a Christmas tree in your home when you arrive. (Already decorated or ornaments ready to be added by you if you so choose.)

Bonus: Exclusive Resorts has a new partnership with National Geographic that offers adventure travel, ideal for couples (who may be empty nesters). This is an entirely new direction for the brand.

(Continued on page 18)

Special Travel Issue 2019-20 | texaslifestylemagazine.com 17

exclusive resorts

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul (Continued from page 17)

Villa Monterotondo welcomes visitors to Tuscany through Exclusive Resorts booking agents.

Crushing on Tuscany Villa Monterotondo on the Casali di Casole Estate T

his Tuscan gem of a villa is just one of the magnificent properties to be enjoyed as a member of Exclusive Resorts. High season for this villa tends to run between late spring and late summer. The villa, which is located a little over an hour from Florence and almost two hours from Bologna, is situated in Tuscany, off the beaten path but close enough to enjoy many of the region’s fairytale small towns and villages.

A restored farmhouse, the main villa features two large bedrooms upstairs with private baths and one smaller room. On the bottom floor, vacationers enjoy a large living room with fireplace, a dining room with an extra long table and a full kitchen. Two separate guesthouses sit apart from the main home.

Each guesthouse features a small sitting area with king bed and spacious bathroom. Did we mention the pool out back overlooking the hills?

Old and new are combined in the most glamorous ways at this property. The location is very remote, far away from any other villas, yet you have Wi-Fi. The kitchen is big enough to feed a large group, and there’s a brick oven for pizza-making outside. The interior of the guesthouses features vintage stone walls and the most plush bedding.

Oh, the places you’ll go…

Spend time in these Tuscan towns, within driving distance of Villa Monterotondo: » Siena, an architectural study in and of itself, is centered around a town square, where you’ll find enotecas (wine shops) and cafés. Everything in Siena is historic; you’ll find little newer than 700 years old. Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, pairing pastas and robust Italian wines.

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» Visit the Antinori Family Winery and make sure to stay for lunch in their fine dining restaurant. As they say, these wines are not complete without food. So play by their rules and enjoy a delicious meal (multiple courses including a fresh olive oil tasting). If you tour the winery, you’ll learn that the sangiovese grape rules in Tuscany and that the property shares space with an abbey of monks who help tend to the garden. (They even grow pineapple sage.) » Florence is a museum in its own right.

Walk the old streets and peruse shops, duck into a cozy café for house-made lasagna and a glass of Chianti classico, or navigate your way to see Michelangelo’s magnificent “David.”

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

Know Before You Go You’ll need a special adapter for electrical outlets in Italy. It’s best to Google which one you’ll need (C, F or L) so you can be prepared.

Go to your bank before you leave to exchange U.S. dollars for euros. You’ll be less stressed for time and get a better exchange rate. However, some banks don’t keep euros stocked and need approximately five business days notice to order them for you.

exclusive resorts

The villa boasts a large living area with two separate sitting areas.

exclusive resorts

Tuscany is worth a visit for any season.

The villa blends an old world charm with updated conveniences.

exclusive resorts

The villa has 3 bedrooms in the main house and 2 one-bedroom houses detached.

exclusive resorts

When headed to Tuscany, you might book a flight into Florence. The airport in Florence is quite small and the runway is short. If bad weather brings in low visibility, you very well might be directed to another airport, such as Pisa or Bologna.

Special Travel Issue 2019-20 | texaslifestylemagazine.com 19

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

Windstar Cruises Brings the World to Life, 180O from Ordinary

By Marika Flatt

Views of the countryside while aboard the M.S. Star Breeze are breathtaking.

Windstar Cruises sail a fleet of oversized yachts, such as the M.S. Star Breeze, so that guests are able to get the full cruise experience (multiple dining options, nightly entertainment, amenities like a spa) without the hassles of being on a large, oversized ship carrying thousands of guests. With just around 300 passengers, guests can engage with the feeling of summer camp on the high seas, having an intimate experience where you have multiple opportunities throughout the day to meet other guests (sitting at group tables for dinner or joining in on a group excursion) and also getting to know the crew (if you make a little effort), who are top-notch and work hard to ensure the perfect vacation.

The Star Breeze is the Goldilocks of size in cruising: not too small that you feel every wave rumbling beneath you, but not too big so that you feel like just another seashell on the shore.

24 Texas Lifestyle Magazine | Special Travel Issue 2019-20

Bergen is a beautiful community surrounded by mountains and fjords.

Lerwick is the main town of the Shetland Isles, and an ideal spot to rent an electric bike to see the sites.

visitscotland

Sail away, sail away, sail away

windstar cruises

I’ve had the good fortune to cruise down the Danube River in Germany and to experience Norwegian Cruise Line’s Bliss, which is like its own city. But, there’s a reason why some people say they don’t cruise; it’s not for everyone. However, Windstar Cruises has found a way to combine all the best jewels of cruising and put them in one shiny jewelry box, shining bright as the cruise line for people who don’t typically enjoy cruises. With “180 Degrees from Ordinary” they are out to create a unique experience for each traveler.

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

Top 10 Reasons to Sail Windstar Cruises 1. All cabins are suite style, offering ample room in your “home away from home.” (We were on board for 10 nights on our "Lands of the Midnight Sun" cruise.) A bathroom with two sinks, a walk-in closet, a separate sitting area with a view out the sliding glass door, and a flat-screen swivel TV provide all the cozy comforts for a long voyage.

2. There’s no better way to see multiple towns and countries in an efficient way than on a cruise! With eight ports in ten days, this cruiser saw four different countries.

3. Windstar Cruises has multiple excursions for each port stop to choose from and they are planned to the tee. A more senior cruiser might opt for a bus tour while a young guest might lean towards the more active options, such as cycling or hiking. It’s as simple as showing up in the lounge at the designated time, gathering into a group and being swept away to your next adventure.

4. Where else can you unpack your bags, get to see so much of our great big world, and not have to repack for a week or more? And, Windstar’s laundry service makes it possible to pack in a carry-on for two weeks away. Simply gather up your dirty laundry, fill out a form and the fairies return it to you in 24 hours, precisely folded.

5. The customer service and friendliness of the staff aboard the Star Breeze make the experience one to remember. From the always-smiling cabin steward to the waitstaff meeting your every culinary need, to the executive team going out of their way to get to know guests and the musicians who bring nightly entertainment to life, parting is but sweet sorrow at the end of the cruise.

It’s like leaving summer camp when you grow to love the counselors and fellow campers and you long to return year after year.

6. Windstar is the only cruise line affiliated with the James Beard Foundation and the dining is a testament to high quality and delicious taste. Starting with breakfast, you can indulge in a buffet of fresh fruit or a more European breakfast of salami and cheeses, or order off the menu. Lunch can be enjoyed at multiple restaurants/cafes. And dinner is a feast, with multiple courses on a carefully curated menu. Fresh fish (the executive chef goes overboard—pun intended—to source local ingredients and highlight cuisine from the region) or decedent pasta is always a winner.

7. Get the beer and wine beverage package if you enjoy these libations to make it stress-free. From various bars, such as the outdoor Star Bar overlooking the pool and hot tub, and at meals, you’ll be able to sip on a brew outdoors or pair the very best wines the sommelier has chosen, with any meal. Not only does the crew get to know your name but also knows your beer and wine selections.

8. If you are lucky enough to have a sea day (no port stop) on the first full day, book a massage or facial at WindSpa when you get onboard. There’s no better way to get yourself into relaxation mode. The Star Breeze also features a sauna and steam room. (Pro Tip: After you leave the hot tub on a cold day, head to the sauna before going to your cabin to shower.) A popular facial, the BIOTEC Line Eraser, will be the icing on your first-day cake!

9. The nightly musical entertainment is five-star on the Breeze. From listening to Elton John piano ballads in the Compass Rose bar to burning off calories with some hot salsa music in the lounge, it’s another benefit to being on a small ship and getting to dance the night away with familiar faces. Guests have the choice to sit and listen to the talented musicians or be “all in,” making waves on the dance floor.

10. As someone who almost never travels to the same place twice, I’m impressed with the loyal customer base Windstar Cruises has developed over the years. Many of our fellow passengers make Windstar Cruises a part of their annual travel plan. That speaks volumes; they are doing it right and holding on to those who have so many varied options when it comes to spending their travel dollars.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

(Continued from page 25)

The M.S. Star Breeze, along with two other Windstar ships, will go into upgrade mode in October for a stretch and revitalization. There will be new experiences and improved public spaces, in addition to new bathrooms, 50 new suites, a new Spanish restaurant and a new al fresco barbecue restaurant. Plus, a new, larger spa and fitness center and new tenders (the small boats that take you to port) will add to the experience.

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In March 2020, the Star Breeze will sail again, with its inaugural voyage leaving from Miami and enjoying sunny stops in the Florida Keys and the Caribbean.

Photos: (above, top to bottom) The M.S. Star Breeze is the perfect size for a cruise without the hassles of being on an oversized ship. // The beer and wine beverage package is the best way to enjoy libations stress-free while aboard the ship. // Windstar Cruises specializes in top-notch nightly entertainment.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

» Copenhagen’s 8-mile Harbor Circle wraps around both sides of the harbour. It’s connected by six design-savvy car-free bridges.

Visit visitcopenhagen.com for details of self-led cycling tours. » Copenhagen locals are famous for their laid-back attitude but it doesn’t stop them from partying until the wee hours of the

night; some bars are open until 8 AM! Whether you are looking for live music, great craft beer or signature cocktails, you can find it here. Ruby is a nightlife institution, twice ranked in the World’s 50 Best Bars. » Copenhagen’s world-famous son, author Hans Christian Andersen, lived on the equally famous street, Nyhavn, lined with multi-colored buildings along the harbor. One of the more popular tourist sites in Copenhagen is The Little Mermaid statue, based on Anderson’s fairy tale of the same name.

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Our Windstar Cruise, “Lands of the Midnight Sun,” departed from Copenhagen, Denmark. DK Eyewitness Travel Guides helped us easily discover the highlights of this elegant, welcoming city.

Windstar Cruises offers multiple outings for each port stop.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

When Should You Visit

New Zealand?

By Alicia Saba, The Splendid Traveler

New Zealand has four distinct seasons all offering something special, and there isn’t a bad time to visit.

Situated in the far south of the Southern Hemisphere, the country’s seasons are the reverse of those in North America, with the South Island experiencing more pronounced seasonal differences than the North Island. New Zealand is a destination that is all about taking advantage of the spectacular landscapes the country has to offer, and with each of its four distinct seasons offering something special, there isn’t a bad time to visit. Here is a rundown of what you can expect.

Summer (December-February) The New Zealand summer is a time of warm temperatures and clear skies, ideal for relaxing at the beach, or venturing into the country’s magnificent national parks. The cycling and hiking trails are at their driest and long daylight hours mean there’s more time to enjoy them.

The average high temperature in the summer ranges from 70 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the country.

New Zealand’s sun is stronger than many other parts of the world, so it is very important to wear sunscreen year-round, but especially if you visit in summer.

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Summer coincides with peak tourist season, particularly from midDecember to late January, when hotels and luxury lodges can book

up over a year in advance. Prices for both accommodation and airfare are at their highest, and you can expect crowds all over the country.

If you’re hoping to get a permit for any of New Zealand’s major trekking routes, such as the Milford and Routeburn tracks, you will need to book well in advance.

Summer lupines in the dramatic and rugged Milford Sound, located on New Zealand’s South Island.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

Flying over the autumn colors surrounding Moke Lake with Heli Tours

Autumn (March-May)

There are also fewer crowds, and if you are looking for a quieter period on the major trekking routes, then autumn is ideal. If saltwater fishing is on your wish list, autumn is the season to charter a local boat. Orcas and dolphins can be seen on Wellington’s coast at this time of year, and if you’re taking the Interislander Ferry between New Zealand’s North and South islands during autumn, you’ll want to keep an eye out for them.

Keep in mind that the week around Easter sees a sharp peak in demand for accommodation, and many popular destinations get booked out well in advance.

Fall begins in the mountains on the South Island of New Zealand.

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Temperatures start to cool in March, with crisp, clear days gradually getting shorter, leading into chilly nights.

The first snowfall on the mountains, combined with the changing color of leaves, make this one of the most beautiful times to visit. By May, the onset of winter can be felt, particularly in the South Island, but overcast, rainy days are still interspersed with bright blue skies and sunshine.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul (Continued from page 29)

Winter

You will find stunning views of Lake Wanaka on the Roy’s Peak track.

New Zealand’s winter months are marked by cold temperatures, rain, and plenty of snowfall throughout the South Island’s mountainous regions, which draws skiers and snowboarders. There is a variety of accommodation in the popular ski destinations of Queenstown and Wanaka. The Queenstown Winter Festival at the end of June heralds in the snow, when the ski slopes usually open. If you’re traveling to Queenstown or Wanaka, be sure to book your accommodation, ski passes and gear rental well in advance.

For the rest of the country, you will have it largely to yourself, with some great airfare and accommodation deals around. Don’t let the cold weather deter you from hiking. With stunning snow-capped peaks and hot thermal pools, this is a unique and special time throughout the country. Be warned though, some trails and activities will be closed for the winter, such as the Department of Conservation Great Walks.

These premier walking tracks close in the winter and hiking huts are not attended to. If self-driving in the winter is on the agenda, make sure you carry chains and read up on New Zealand winter driving tips.

This is also a great time of year to see the New Zealand national rugby team, the All Blacks, play a home game. The games are very popular, so get those tickets in advance.

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Serene Lake Wanaka in the winter.

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(June-August)

The Hobbiton movie set, one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Zealand.

Spring (September-November)

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Long Haul

With warming temperatures, snow melt, and landscapes lush with green grass and blooming flowers, spring is a stunning time to visit. Spring is the best time of year to take a tour of the Hobbiton movie set as the gardens are at their peak.

Spring is known as New Zealand’s waterfall season, when the country’s falls are roaring. September and October can still see some late snow in the far South Island and the weather can be a bit unpredictable and rainy. But, by November, the skies are drying out and the days lengthening as the warmth of summer arrives.

Crowds are light at the beginning of spring, but with the warmer weather towards the end of spring come the crowds, so booking early is essential.

Toast Martinborough, one of the best food and wine festivals in the country, takes place the third Sunday in November each year. Martinborough is a 90-minute drive from Wellington, the nation’s capital. The popular festival takes place across 8 - 10 vineyards in the region.

New Zealand's waterfall season begins in the spring.

Alicia Saba is the founder of luxury travel agency The Splendid Traveler, creating unique and personalized travel experiences you wouldn’t have known were possible by booking on your own. Follow The Splendid Traveler on Instagram and Facebook.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Mexico

The New Acapulco Fun, Festive and Family-Friendly

R

emember when Acapulco was all about Carlos ‘n Charlies, windsurfing and thick gold chains proudly displayed on tanned, but hairy macho chests? Remember even further back when Acapulco was the go-to vacation and second home destination for the old Hollywood elite? (Think Elizabeth Taylor, John Wayne, Dean Martin.) Well, hold on to your sunnies, because Acapulco has put on a brand new dress, and it is more beautiful, ecological, cultural, and family-friendly than ever before.

As you consider your next vacation with your S.O., girlfriends, or the fam, take a look at what Acapulco has to offer.

Family Looking for a quiet tropical getaway or some good fun-in-sun family time? Then plan to go during the week, as Friday to Sunday is when this city becomes busy with the weekend crowds from Mexico City.

Book your room at the iconic Princess Mundo Imperial in the newer, more

residential and very safe Diamante section of the city, a bit south of the older sections of Acapulco and closer to the airport. The hotel has a gated entrance and is right on the beach with 5 pools (1 is saltwater), swim up bars, al fresco dining and you might even see peacocks, swans, a bilingual parrot named Lola (be sure to say hola to Lola - kids love chatting with her out near the pool) and even a lovely flamingo as you stroll around the lush and welltended grounds. The rooms are large, very comfortable, and have great views, and the staff and service are exceptional.

Perfect for beach bums, the Princess Mundo Imperial Hotel is the place to stay for a luxurious family vacation.

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acapulco destination marketing office

By Leslie Barrett

If you’re a thrill seeker, then you have to check out the XTASEA Zipline. It’s the longest zipline over water in the world.

FUN If all you want to do is bask in the warm Mexican sunshine and sip piña coladas, then by all means, do that, but if you are in the mood for adventure, exploring, sightseeing, and shopping, then check out what else Acapulco has to offer. » La Quebrada Cliff Divers: Take a boat tour through beautiful Acapulco Bay to the La Quebrada cliffs. Pack a lunch and watch the long-standing tradition, oftentimes passed down through generations of these local young men, many who have been diving since before they were teens. The divers will most likely swim out to your boat and give you a little history lesson about the dive and answer any questions you have for them. Please give them a tip they swam all the way out to your boat. As you sail around the bay, you’ll see stunning, colorful hillside homes, and jump in for a refreshing swim. At certain times of the year, there will be dolphins and whales swimming around and showing off their own diving skills. » Cultural Corridor: As you stroll down the street, you’ll notice the walls come alive with fascinating and bold murals from the 2018 International Public Art Festival “El Origen” exposition. There are several new museums to explore for art, culture and history lovers. The Museo de la Mascara (Museum of the Mask) has hundreds of historic, tribal and sometimes creepy-looking masks lining the walls of this museum. Admission is free and the curator will give you the history, tell fascinating stories behind the different masks and you’ll be blown away by the detail of the work.

In the Museo Historico Naval (Naval History Museum) you’ll find finely detailed

acapulco destination marketing office

Fuerte de San Diego was one of Spain’s most important forts along the Pacific coast during the 17th century.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Mexico

FOOD replicas of the ships that sailed into and out of Acapulco starting in the 16th century, when Acapulco was the first port in the Americas and traded goods with ships from Manilla. The director, Marcelo Adano, is an encyclopedia of historical information and built many of the intricately detailed and authentic models on display in the museum. The Museo Historico de Acapulco (History Museum of Acapulco) in the Fuerte de San Diego is a must-see.

First of all, it is a fort, and when you see the model, and how it is situated in the port, you’ll understand why it was hard for any bad guys to get in. » The XTASEA zipline across the exquisitely beautiful Marques Bay is a must, even if you are afraid of heights. You are well secured, strapped and buckled in. First, you fly over the jungle, then you soar over the aquamarine seawater and it is both exhilarating and peaceful. Although it is the longest zipline over water in the world, it is over in less than a minute. » Tres Palos Lagoon is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Rent a small boat from Hermanos Salas and be transported away from the sights and sounds of the city into the quiet mangrove-surrounded lagoon filled with herons, cranes, egrets and many other fish-loving birds. You’ll feel like you are on a NatGeo excursion as you quietly glide through the channels of the tree-lined jungle out into the open lagoon toward a stand of “flor de loto” lily pads floating and supporting the dainty lotus flowers.

On your way south to the Tres Palos Lagoon is Ismirna del Mar in the Barra Vieja section, about 30 minutes from the center of Acapulco, and right on the beach. First, taste a piña colada or a fresh coconut water.

Then order the empanadas de queso and the sopes with black beans. The centerpiece of the family-style meal is the Pescado a la Talla — red snapper marinated in lime juice and a mix of pureed guajillo chiles, tomato, onion and garlic, grilled and seasoned with sea salt, served with Mexican rice and fresh limes.

The other restaurant that you’ll want to save for a late dinner and very special dining experience is Zibu. Most Mexicans eat dinner around 10pm, so take an afternoon siesta and make a reservation at Zibu for around 8:30 or 9:00 to beat the crowds. The view is one of the best in the city and this cliffside spot will leave you wanting more. The chef/ owner, Eduardo Palazuelos is a master of MexThai fusion cuisine. Order a tamarind or mango margarita, they are small and not very strong, but the flavor of the chili-lined glass and the fresh ingredients inside will be a perfect start to your meal. Then order a variety of appetizers for the table and take in the view; be sure and have at least one of the Carpaccio de Pulpo. When you are ready for your main course, there are a variety of fresh seafood, chicken, beef and vegetarian options.Try the Pescado Fusion. Then don’t forget dessert; anything with ice cream and fresh fruit will leave you a very happy traveler.

Acapulco has evolved into the kind of destination you’ve been hoping for. It’s clean, safe and full of the warm Mexican spirit that travelers have been seeking and returning to for thousands of years.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Mexico

GRAND VELAS LOS CABOS All-Inclusive Luxury in Pacific Paradise

By Dana Kent Maass and Brian Maass

Imagine yourself in the most luxurious beach resort possible, fully escaping from reality and surrounding yourself with the panoramic beauty found at the tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula. Ideally situated between the capes, or “Los Cabos,” of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose Del Cabo, Grand Velas Los Cabos is one of the region’s newest all-inclusive five-diamond resorts in the luxury travel category.

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Lined with bright flowering bougainvillea, each private patio has an ocean view.

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(Continued from page 37)

EASY ACCESS AND A WARM WELCOME Most major airports in Texas now offer convenient two-hour flights into the San Jose Del Cabo airport, a short half-hour ride from the resort. Arranging round-trip transportation to and from Grand Velas Los Cabos is just one of the many attractive perks offered by this full-service establishment.

On the open-air veranda you’ll find beautiful pieces of modern art, while the most cordial and professional Grand Velas staff promptly offer glasses of sparkling wine, a variety of fresh caviar samples, and a relaxing massage for your weary neck and shoulders. Instantly, you know this picturesque place is special, and ready to wash over your soul like waves onto the nearby sandy shores.

FIVE-DIAMOND SERVICE With each spacious suite of at least 1,100 square feet overlooking the azure Sea of Cortez, you will have plenty of room and opportunity to rest and relax. Feeling like brunch overlooking the ocean or maybe watching the sunrise, without leaving the room? Order a complete meal and fresh coffee with Tequila creme, delivered by your own personalized 24-hour butler concierge.

Take a dip in your private patio plunge pool, at the perfect temperature, requiring no acclimation. After a full day at the resort, freshen up for dinner under your spa-like rain shower, or sink into a warm and generous jacuzzi, located right in your bathroom. The Ambassador Suite is fully stocked with a mini bar, all included. A bottle of premium Mezcal is available to mix your own drinks.

Guests wanting to create more of a spa experience may opt for the Wellness Suite, complete with fitness equipment, organic snacks and freshly squeezed juices. Outside these suites, you can enjoy the spacious fitness center overlooking the ocean and burn off a few calories.

place in the afternoons. Interested in golfing, or traveling with a golfer? Three world-class golf courses are easily accessible from Grand Velas, and the views are no less than spectacular.

One key feature of Grand Velas is their high staff ratio, with three staff members for every guest. You won’t have to wait more than a minute for someone to politely offer you a drink, a table, or assistance for the smallest of daily requests. Your butler provides you with a mobile number for questions or emergencies, 24/7.

DRINK AND DINE ALL DAY

Central to the property are three pristine infinity swimming pools, all with a view of the deep blue ocean delivering the sound of soothing waves. One of the pools is reserved for adults only and includes a swim-up bar.

These oceanview pools are ideal for spending time in the water, since the undertow of the ocean is too strong at the property for safe swimming. If going into the sea is your goal, only a mile away you can find calmer waters for taking a dip.

The grounds of Grand Velas resemble a lush garden, with perfectly manicured palm trees, vegetation, and bright pink bougainvillea with the sweet aroma of plumeria along the walkways. Hammocks and cabanas invite you to lounge, catch a nap, or breeze through a few chapters in your book.

Bringing the family along? Special suites are available to accommodate those traveling with children. Kids and Teen Clubs on-site offer plenty of supervised and age appropriate activities, while the adults may opt for aquaaerobics, yoga or pilates classes. Pingpong, darts and horseshoe tournaments often take

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With six restaurants and four bars on-site, Grand Velas has no shortage of both fine and casual dining. Azul Cocina International is open for breakfast and lunch, with an attractive spread of organic cuisine in a buffet-style presentation. Around 11 am, the lunch dishes begin to emerge, so you might choose this golden hour to enjoy the best of both worlds.

What better way to sample the freshest catch of the day than stopping by the Cevicheria?

Ready for a more formal dinner of seafood and steak? Velas 10 delivers the finest selections from land and water, amidst serene ocean views, marble floors and lush tropical vegetation. Offering eight to ten courses with wine pairing nightly, Cocina de Autor is the resort’s finest dining establishment, with creative culinary selections to stimulate all the senses in a single meal. (Soon after opening, Cocina de Autor was named among the best new restaurants by CNN.) Each dish is an artful masterpiece and a feast for the eyes, as well as the palate.

The food experienced here is reflective of the resort’s emphasis on art. Before dinner, be sure to stop by the art gallery. Complementing the resort’s million dollar art collection on show throughout the property, the gallery features fine Mexican art.

After perusing the gallery, step into Tequila

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Mexico

& Mezcal bar for the finest of distilled agave and more. Here, you can sample some impressive Mexican wine in a customized flight. A beautiful red blend of syrah, grenache and mourvedre can be found in a bottle of D’Poncelis, hailing from Valle de Guadalupe and bearing the namesake of Don Pedro Poncelis, master sommelier at Grand Velas. Developing his craft over several decades, he poured us a glass of his vino while sharing a contagious passion for the vineyards of Mexico. Two other on-site dinner options are Lucca, for family-style casual Italian, and Piaf, where classic French food is served in a more formal setting and children must be at least twelve years of age.

SE SPA: RELAX AND REFRESH The 35,000 square-foot aquatic mecca on the exceptional grounds of Grand Velas exceeds all expectations, SE Spa’s hydrotherapy journey includes a series of optional steps. A personal spa valet will guide you through the process, which lasts for about an hour before your scheduled treatment.

Step into the generous indoor central pool, as you sit on a carved-stone chaise lounge.

At the push of a button, built-in jets will massage your tired leg and back muscles.

Drift through the peaceful water to explore other subtle buttons and activate the pulsating water jets.Then, try out the polar pool for an invigorating blast of cryotherapy. Turn up the temperature on a heated lounger, scented steam room, or soothing sauna. Guests are strategically scheduled at staggered times, to minimize noise and distractions.

While not included with the nightly rate, the spa package is strongly recommended.

Consider the ancestral stone massage, which incorporates ancient grains and therapeutic minerals into your treatment. Hot stones will balance the energy of your chakras, with a nod to practices developed by pre-Hispanic cultures of Mexico. Used to make tequila, the blue agave can also help you unwind with a candle massage consisting of hot wax.

OFF-SITE ADVENTURES AND ART Whether diving into the ocean or into the towns of San Juan Del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, you can personalize your own adventure on land or in the water.

Contact your concierge to arrange a snorkeling excursion by the famous stone arch, located at the tip of the peninsula.

We enjoyed our boat ride to the arch with Rancho Tours, conveniently providing transportation to and from the resort. Our private tour guide hopped into the water with us and pointed out various fish and sea animals while we snorkeled. Holding a puffer fish was an unforgettable moment, as much as touching the bottom of the ocean ten feet below us in the refreshing cove.

Cabo Adventures is the place to book your day trip to travel a little deeper, including swimming with dolphins, catapulting down a zipline and more.

If you are in search of the quiet, more artsy side of Cabo, catch an Uber into San Jose Del Cabo. At the center of town is a beautiful church, reminiscent of the city’s history as a mission. November through June, you can attend a Thursday evening Art Walk, the perfect opportunity to experience this community of gifted artisans. Dozens of small shops line the narrow and charming streets, where shop owners are often the artists, eager to discuss the details of the art and jewelry with customers.

Photos above: (left to right) Featuring French cuisine, wine pairings, and a luxurious atmosphere, Piaf is one of several fine dining options guests can experience at Grand Velas Los Cabos. // Make sure to visit the El Arco Del Cabo San Luca ("The Arch"). Get up close to the landmark with a boat or snorkeling excursion. // Grand Velas Los Cabos features extensive wine selections with labels from all over the world. Order fine wines at each restaurant, or try a Mexican wine flight at the Tequila & Mezcal bar. // Lose yourself in shades of blue at one of three infinity pools while casting your gaze over miles of ocean. // All photography Brian Maass.

Dana and Brian Maass are married and living in Round Rock, Texas. When not traveling, writing, and taking photos, they can be found exploring the Hill Country, serving the community, following sports, or catching a live performance. Follow them on Instagram at @dana_maass_adventures and @brian_maass_adventurer.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Mexico

Mahekal Beach Resort A Magical Mexican Experience

Relax and recharge at this magical Mexican retreat.

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courtesy Mahekal Beach Resort

By Heidi Gollub

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Mexico

Photos: (left) The only thing missing? Some Coronitas, chips, and house-made guacamole. // (below) Guests relax to the soothing sounds of ocean waves when staying in Mahekal’s ocean-view palapas. // All photography courtesy Mahekal Beach Resort

Lying in a hammock under a jungle of palm trees—Mexican beer, chips and guacamole to my right and turquoise Caribbean waters to my left— it’s hard to imagine the rest of the world still exists.

This is the magic of Mahekal.

F

rom the moment I arrived in the open-air lobby of Mahekal Beach Resort, inhaling the fresh ocean air and exhaling the 45-minute drive from Cancún International Airport, I was captivated by the bohemian seaside paradise. An oasis of Tulum-style palapas, the Mahekal property is a delightful maze of thatched roofs and lush greenery, bordering Playa del Carmen’s longest stretch of white, sandy beach.

Mahekal, or “magical” in ancient Mayan, is aptly named. A Caribbean hideaway along the Mexican Yucatán Peninsula's Riviera Maya, this unique resort boasts 100 beachside bungalows whose rustic dried palm

rooftops belie the luxury within. With one of the resort’s signature passion fruit mojitos in hand, I wound through a labyrinth of towering trees to discover gardens, fountains, pools and, eventually, my own little casita by the sea.

A well-appointed Tulum-style palapa, my beach hut was cozy and elegant, with special Mayan touches throughout. The single-room building provided a welcome respite from the Mexican sun, with its stone floor, air conditioning, ceiling fan and crisp, cool sheets. Lying on the bed, I could hear the nearby ocean waves. It was that sound that lured me back outside again.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Mexico (Continued from page 41)

After ordering a blackberry margarita from the poolside bar, I leisurely drank in the serene surroundings. It was early May, the tail end of high season. But this pool—one of four at the resort—was practically empty. It was lovely to be in this peaceful jungle setting as the sun began to set.

I strolled next door to Fuego, Mahekal’s newest oceanfront restaurant. With no walls to hinder the ocean view, and live music to accompany a feast of Mexican and Latin American cuisine, this was a candlelit meal to remember. As with all four of Mahekal’s onsite restaurants, Fuego’s ingredients are locally sourced, cooked fresh, and served with artistic flair. Every course was as beautiful as it was delicious.

In fact, every bite I took at Mahekal turned out to be a delight to my senses.

I couldn’t get enough of the local fruits, fresh-squeezed orange juice, green smoothies, and even Fuego’s unique breakfast pizza served with an egg on top.

When staying at Mahekal Beach Resort, there is very little reason to leave.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Mexico

Photos: (left) At Playa del Carmen, the sun is hot but the berry margaritas are cool. // (center) At Mahekal, there are four luxurious pools to choose from. // (below) Mahekal's oceanside villas are located directly on the beach, steps from the Caribbean Sea. // All photography courtesy Mahekal Beach Resort

When staying at Mahekal Beach Resort, there is very little reason to leave. From yoga on the beach to ceramics painting to fire pit relaxing, it’s effortless to fill your days. I only ventured off the property twice in three days. The first time was for a bucket list-worthy adventure: a guided snorkel tour in an underground cenote.

Cenotes Sac Actún, located near Tulum, is the world’s largest known flooded cave and, at 215 miles, the longest surveyed underground cave system in the world. With life jackets and snorkels in place, guests plunge into 72-degree water and swim with a guide through dimly lit chambers. Stalactites and fruit bats loom above, while limestone caverns full of fish dip below. Being able to see both worlds through a snorkel mask is an incredible experience.

My second off-property excursion was a walk down Playa del Carmen’s bustling Fifth Avenue, followed by dinner at the palatepleasing Amate 38. With a blend of traditional dishes from the Yucatán peninsula and those inspired by Lebanese cuisine, this menu is a masterpiece. Savor the guacamole, empanadas, kibis, fresh fish and Mayan chaya cream soup, all prepared with natural ingredients and served alongside tortillas cooked tableside. When you’re full and happy, it’s only a five-minute walk back to the resort.

For one final relaxing experience at Mahekal, don’t miss the intimate Mayan-inspired Revive Spa. Start with a glass of champagne, unwind in the Jacuzzi, then feel your cares melt away with an organic facial or chakra massage.

Mahekal Beach Resort is the perfect destination for weddings, romantic getaways and family vacations. With direct flights to Cancún from Austin, Houston, Dallas and San Antonio, it’s an easy trek from Texas. Make plans to visit from December to March for the best weather, and treat yourself to some genuine Mexican hospitality.

Heidi Gollub travels the world with five kids in tow, most recently to Australia and New Zealand. The founder of Free Fun in Austin, Heidi believes you can find adventure everywhere—even in your own backyard. Follow her on Instagram @heidi.go.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Mexico

6 Reasons to Escape to Heaven A luxury getaway weekend to a new oasis in Cancun.

By Kim Hudson

From the minute guests arrive at the Haven Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa to their departure, they are treated with exquisite first class service. This all-inclusive resort opened in October 2018, making it the newest addition to the “Golden Mile” of luxury hotels on the coast of Cancun. Haven Riviera has given the term ‘all-inclusive’ a whole new meaning. They offer an oasis for adults to escape to with an allinclusive concept but all the amenities and service of a luxury resort.

LOC AT IO N Visiting Haven Riviera is a perfect getaway weekend for adults. It’s a hop and a skip away for Texas residents with a short two hour flight and 15 minute drive from the airport. Other resorts in Cancun have an average commute of one hour from the airport, and up to two hours with traffic. Getting to Haven is a breeze and a fantastic way to start a relaxing vacation.

P R OPERTY From the flora and fauna throughout the property and pristine grounds, no detail is left untouched. The unique Mexican contemporary design of the hotel is unlike any others in the area. The horizontal beachfront design provides ocean views from over half of the guest rooms and public spaces. The entire resort is elevated, providing a unique infinity view from anywhere in the resort. The personnel is continually cleaning and polishing every nook and cranny, discreetly using wicker baskets to conceal their supplies—yet another detail to preserve the impressive, yet charming, ambiance of the property. The property utilizes underground pathways so that employees can stay out of sight.

4

Haven Riviera is unique in being a very walkable resort while still being a very large resort. Guests can easily walk from one end of the resort to the other in a few short minutes. Almost all entertainment and dining areas are conveniently located within the same main building.

This means there is very little time or confusion with navigating to different activities and can also help keep you dry during bad weather.

A M EN IT IE S Haven Riviera has numerous highly sought-after luxury amenities. It first features three enormous pools, including two swim-up bars with food service, along with countless lounge chairs and umbrellas ideal

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Mexico

for the tranquil moments that await. If you’re an active person, you will not be short on activities either. The resort includes a luxury fitness gym, swimming in the ocean, kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, a basketball and tennis court, ping pong and much more.

If you’re looking to relax, Haven Riviera has an amazing spa experience. The resort has rooms to enjoy a personal or couple massage with one of the many experienced therapists.The spa also provides reiki sessions, hydrotherapy treatment, or you can just relax in the sauna and steam room.

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ACCOMMODATI ON S Every room in the hotel is a suite and has a variety of different floor plans. Many of them offer balconies with private jacuzzis or swim-out pools. They come with many other options as well, such as; 24/7 finedining room service, mini bar customization, 24-hour butler service, aromatherapy, and a pillow menu for the perfect night’s sleep. Haven Riviera also offers a Serenity Club for guests that are looking for exclusive VIP services and premium amenities.

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DINING There are many different options for dining, sharing a variety of flavours from the Mexican Caribbean. You’ll find three fine dining fusion restaurants, including contemporary Tex-Mex, Asian steakhouse and Mediterranean with Spanish roots. In addition to the fine dining, there are buffet-style restaurants, snack bars and a coffee shop strategically placed throughout the property.

A DVEN TU R E

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There is plenty of things to do on the property but if you’re looking for a off-site jungle adventure, Selvatica is your answer. The adventure park, approximately 30 minutes away from the resort, offers zip-lining, ATV tours, a jungle coaster, swimming, bungee jumping and so much more. The full-day experience is truly unforgettable. Haven Riviera offers multiple other excursions throughout Cancun, including transportation.

Nothing is overlooked at Haven Riviera. The property is gorgeous, the staff is very attentive and the food and drinks were delicious. If you are looking for a romantic getaway to a serene oasis, Haven Riviera Cancun is the place to go.

1. Haven Riviera Cancun features three enormous pools, including two swim-up bars with food service. // 2. Relax in the hydrotherapy pool at the spa. // 3. Enjoy fine dining at Olios, Haven Riviera Cancun’s Mediterranean restaurant. // 4. Indulge in a dish at Agua Bendita, a contemporary blend of traditional Mexican cuisine and hospitality with a classic steak house.. // 5. Enjoy room service on your balcony overlooking the ocean. // 6. One of the many ziplines at Selvatica, a jungle adventure park only 30 minutes from Haven Riviera. // 7. An exclusive Serenity Club Oceanfront Suite. // 8. The main pool is at the center of the resort.

Kim Hudson is a graphic designer and travel writer for Texas Lifestyle Magazine.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Central America

Living the Dream Down South

By Samantha Cook

Las Catalinas and Recreo offer a different way of life in Guanacaste.

1. Is it walkable? 2. Does it maintain privacy? 3. Does it optimize the use of the land? The view corridors of this hill town are amazing!

A direct three-hour flight from Houston, the Liberia airport is easy to navigate and a quick drive to either Las Catalinas or Recreo, two totally different Costa Rican experiences. With some Texans reluctant to travel to Mexico’s beach resorts, Costa Rica is becoming the new jewel down south.

Currently (as of February 2019), approximately 10 families, six with children, live in Las Catalinas and the rest of the housing is rented out. In this resort-based economy, the goal is to have 40% full-time residents in this first phase, called “Beach Town.”

The plan is to build a town that lasts for centuries, a timeless tropical theme using hyper local materials. The design has to meet three criteria:

Take a dip in the pool while watching the sun descend into the Pacific Ocean at Las Catalinas.

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It is not uncommon for visitors to come to Las Catalinas for a two to three week holiday. Visitors realize that, with that length of stay, you really get to experience the town, almost like a sabbatical from the so-called real world. Wi-Fi is optional in each apartment or villa so you can work and stay connected to whatever degree you choose.

Make sure you fully experience the beauty of the environment in Las Catalinas by stopping by the outfitter Pura Vida Ride, where you can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, snorkel equipment and mountain bikes for one of the best mountain biking experiences in the country.

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Las Catalinas, on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, was started in 2010 as the vision of an Atlanta businessman. While the town sits on 1,200 acres, only 20% of that acreage will be built on; the rest will be left as virgin tropical forest. Las Catalinas’ architects have designed a diverse walkable village with a unique community that folks visit and don’t want to leave.

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Central America

LAS CATALINAS DINING

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andrea martínez on unsplash

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You can always shop at the local market, Copper & Stone (although it’s pricey), and cook in your villa or you can dine at one of the town’s restaurants.

Beach Club is a small outdoor eatery overlooking the town pool.

Enjoy appetizers of fresh guacamole and salsas while sipping on a cerveza and sample an array of gourmet tacos (they serve five different varieties of chicken, beef and pork).

Limonada is an outdoor cafe on the sandy beach between the town and the cove’s beautiful water. Seated at wooden picnic tables, you can order fresh seafood, likely caught that day. Start with ceviche as you sip a margarita on the rocks and gaze over the peaceful waterscape. Ask for the catch of the day, which will likely be served with rice or quinoa alongside the freshest of veggies.

For the ultimate dining experience (I recommend saving this for your last night), head up the hill to Sentido Norte. This is the restaurant attached to the town’s adults-only boutique hotel, Casa Chameleon. Muy importante: arrive prior to sunset! The restaurant offers the most spectacular viewing of a sunset! A blood orange sun will set beyond the edge of the infinity pool into the Pacific Ocean.

A guest is chosen to hit the gong once the sun has fully set. Then, you’ll want to enjoy a delicious three-course dinner paired with your favorite wine or cocktail.

Photos (top to bottom) A view over the treetops of Las Catalinas town. // Officially declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Guanacaste National Park and its wildlife are astounding. // The walkable village of Las Catalinas offers incredible accommodations and features Spanish and Mediterranean inspired architecture.

(Continued on page 48)

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Central America (Continued from page 47)

STAYING IN RECREO

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The main buildings on the property are the villas themselves so if you’re not interested in relaxation, the amenities to keep you busy would be a tennis court with basketball hoop and a small gym. Most importantly, though, it’s about a half a mile away from a beautiful secluded beach which boasts Instagrammable sunsets.

Recreo Villa Options: Casa 2: Three bedrooms with queen beds and one bedroom with two single beds. This two-story home has an amazing porch that overlooks a private plunge pool.

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Recreo is a hilly, simple property about an hour and a half northwest of the Liberia airport. Recreo features six very different casas, depending on what size group you have in tow. Twelve years ago, this property was developed and offers a great environment to submerge yourself in the local culture.

Casa 7: Four bedrooms (three with a view of the ocean) and a massive concrete dining table for entertaining.

Casa 6: Two bedrooms with a super funky floor plan; hotel-like entrance for the bedrooms. The hero of the house is a wraparound pool.

Casa 20: A private one-bedroom home for a couple to celebrate their honeymoon or anniversary. Enjoy the 100 steps that it takes to get up to the house!

Most of the tourists that come to Recreo are from the United States and this is a great property to really sink into the local culture and enjoy the beauty that is Costa Rica. To learn more about the beloved “house mama” option that really makes the experience, read my article in Austin Food Magazine.

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Casa 19: Featuring five bedrooms, this is the party place. With four one-bedroom cabanas flanking the large pool and one bedroom in the main house, the outdoor space is the centerpiece of this home.

Photos: (top clockwise from top right) The villas at Recreo boast luxurious rooms influenced by a connection to the surrounding outdoors. // This wraparound pool is the hero of the house at Recreo. // Take in views of the grassy hills and deep blue ocean surrounding Recreo from your own private villa.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Central America

OUT & ABOUT IN GUANACASTE Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Guanacaste

Guanacaste National Park Officially declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Guanacaste National Park and its wildlife are astounding. The dry forests in this northern part of the country are well-known as prime hiking grounds, although birding and observing the various monkey species are the main attractions. A variety of species including jaguars, tapirs and sloths can also be seen migrating through the park towards the Cacao volcano.

The park is also home to the Orosí Volcano.

One of the most exotic beaches on the Costa Rican Gold Coast, Playa Conchal is ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

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Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Guanacaste is a must-visit. At over 34,000 acres, this gem of a park is home to two volcanoes, 32 rivers and streams, and an incredible variety of flora and fauna. Enjoy swimming in hot springs, hiking, horseback riding and more.

Recommended eco-friendly adventure tour operators in Guanacaste include: Samara Adventure Company, Hacienda Guachipelín and Sensoria.

The volcanoes at Rincón de la Vieja are breathtaking from above.

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The famous Playa Flamingo lies on Costa Rica’s Gold Coast. For blue crystal waters, sparkling white sand and a spectacular sunset, Playa Flamingo is the beach to visit. It is also the starting point for many ocean-going excursions, including surfing, snorkeling and scuba diving.

The waters off the shoreline are teeming with marine life.

La Cangreja waterfall in Guanacaste is both stunning and serene.

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Playa Flamingo

Panache Sailing offers snorkel tours as well as catamaran sailing in the morning or during sunset time.

Playa Conchal Considered one of the most exotic beaches on the Costa Rican Gold Coast, Playa Conchal is located in the north of Guanacaste on the shores of the Pacific. The crystalline waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, while the sands are special, comprised of the silky remnants of millions of crushed conch shells.

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Bouti ue Hotel | Farm - To - Table CafĂŠ | Private Events

9601 Bee Cave Road Austin, Texas 78733 info@waybackaustin.com

waybackaustin.com @thewaybackaustin 512.520.9584

EXPLORING ALASKA’S KENAI PENINSUL A

By Sue Durio

I

f the call of the wild – as in breathtaking national parks, sparkling rivers and lakes and abundant marine life habitat – is speaking to you, then consider Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula for your next adventure vacation. You’ll also be treated to quaint main streets, meet interesting locals and learn a thing or two about Alaska’s rich history.

Seaside Seward About three hours of breathtakingly beautiful drives south of Anchorage deposit you in the seaside community of Seward. Located on Resurrection Bay, which doesn’t freeze in winter, Seward is home to the first railroad bringing goods and people between Alaska’s interior and Seward’s busy seaport. First established in the 1790s as a trading post by the Russians, it eventually was settled by the U.S. in the early 1900s. Today, this bustling town of 3,000 boasts a community college, impressive sea life center, and a diverse economy bolstered by its proximity to Kenai Fjords National Park.

The harbor is activity-central, where you can book a fishing charter for some salmon snagging, or a full day of halibut fishing.

Or spend a few hours alongside all manner of sea life on a Kenai Fjords tour. Bring your camera, warm clothes and Dramamine if you are seasick-prone. On our tour, we encountered two pods of breaching orca whale, spotted Steller sea lions and seal pups sunning on ice chunks, watched puffin and marveled at the Holgate Glacier, an actively calving tidewater glacier.

Get your land legs back at any number of seaside or downtown eateries. Listen to the day’s fish stories over fresh catch at the U-shape bar at Ray’s Waterfront, or stroll down Main Street for a meal of locally sourced foods at The Cookery.

Then work off those calories with a walking tour of historic Main Street. Must-see stops include the Alaska SeaLife Center, an aquarium and marine research and rescue center; the Chugach Museum and Institute of History and Art; and the Resurrection Bay Historical Society.

Exploring Exit Glacier Seward offers a variety of accommodations, from harbor-front hotels to hostels and cabins.

Our goal of an off-grid cabin that would accommodate four guests proved hard to come by. But our cabin in the woods was a perfect alternative – and the perfect jumping-off spot to take in Exit Glacier and Kenai Fjords National Park. Its Marmot Meadows Trail is a good choice for a strenuous hike past waterfalls, across streams and alongside prolific wildflowers in bloom.

The view of Exit Glacier from the top of the trail is worth the sore muscles.

Looking for more adventure? Try a guided glacier hike complete with crampons and helmets. Or test your marathon legs on Marathon Mountain, the site of one of Alaska's most popular and challenging foot races. As with all Alaska hiking, always hit the trail over-prepared. During our

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visit, two cruise line passengers got lost on Marathon Mountain with no food, water or bear protection and were lucky to be rescued uninjured by Coast Guard helicopters after a night on the mountain.

Homer the Halibut Capital On the opposite side of the Kenai Peninsula and at the end of the Sterling Highway lies Homer, known as the Halibut Capital of the World. While the destination is beckoning, don’t rush the drive. From Seward, the road takes you through the Upper Kenai region, along the turquoise Kenai Lake and Upper Kenai River. Along the way, you’ll pass through Cooper Landing, steeped in gold mining history, but nowadays visitors are drawn to the area’s abundant outdoor adventures.

During summer salmon season, you are likely to see crowds of fly fisherman along the route angling to stock up on salmon on the Kenai, Russian and Cooper Rivers. You’ll pass through Soldotna, a good spot to refuel and stretch your legs with a stroll through the old pioneer part of town near the visitor center. As you round the bend to approach Homer, the views open up to reveal the sparkling Kachemak Bay that awaits.

On the Water Rooms and cabins for rent abound in Homer proper, or continue across the Homer Spit to find the Land’s End Resort, aptly named for its location at the end of the 4.5 mile spit.

Our waterfront condo was the perfect spot for our last few nights in Alaska. Rooms sit

ryan glanzer

Grewingk Glacier Lake.

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

No trip to Homer would be complete without some halibut fishing. On our day out, we each hauled in our limit of large halibut along with cod and rockfish. Local fish processors will package and flash freeze your catch for shipping home commercially or, as we did, to take on the return fight.

Sea kayaks offer another way to get on the water and close to wildlife, and one that we couldn’t pass up. In fact, we voted our paddle, hike and dine day as one of the trip highlights. A water taxi transports kayakers to Peterson Bay where kayaks await for a morning of paddling. Drift alongside eagles distractedly feasting on their fish catch.

Watch sea lions lazily sunning from just feet away. Hold one of the multitudes of colorful starfish hanging out on the shoreline rocks.

Air, the perfect bookend treat for our last day in Alaska. The hour-long flight on Wes Head’s deHavilland Beaver took us over the Homer Spit and across Kachemak Bay to open up vistas just not possible from the ground. Our seasoned pilot shared tidbits of history and geography before treating us to an unexpected glacier lake landing, smooth as proverbial glass.

Saying Goodbye by Air

Visitors with more time can opt for guided or unguided bear viewing flights. And couples looking for a truly unique wedding venue might consider a remote mountain lakeside wedding, officiated by pilot Wes, who will whisk you to your remote honeymoon retreat as well.

Seeing the Alaska landscape up close – on the water and on the trail – is unforgettable.

But seeing it from the air in a float plane provides an altogether unique experience.

The Homer/Beluga Seaplane Base is just four miles from Homer Spit and blocks from downtown Homer. We scored a lastminute morning flight time with Beluga

When he landed us back at seaplane base, it was time to say our goodbyes - for now - to Alaska. There’s little doubt we will be back.

With its natural beauty and nearly limitless recreation options, the only question is whether we can resist the tug of the Kenai again - or break new tracks in another of Alaska’s many treasures.

maureen beckett

At midday, your water taxi returns to deposit

you around the bend at Kachemak Bay State Park, Alaska's first state park, with a promise for a late afternoon pickup. In the meantime, you are on your own to explore the trails leading to Grewingk Glacier Lake. The four-mile Glacier Lake Trail rewards hikers with beachside views of the glacier. After the somewhat rigorous return hike via Saddle Trail, your group will be ready for dinner at the Saltry Restaurant at Halibut Cove, and a water taxi ride back to the harbor.

Before turning in, stop by The Salty Dawg Saloon—a fixture since 1957. Be sure to add your autographed dollar bill to a wall.

ryan glanzer

directly on the ocean, from which you can watch sea otters lazily floating by as fishing boats come and go from the harbor.

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Trail markers document how much Exit Glacier has retreated over the years.

Hikers board their water taxi at Kachemak Bay.

In summer, Alaska is awash in wildflowers like the Lupine, a cousin of the Texas Bluebonnet.

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south dakota department of tourism

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

Al Fresco Art & the Perfect Getaway Weekend in

Sioux Falls

By Haven Lindsey

For most busy Americans, a weekend getaway is often more restorative than a long vacation – it requires less planning and tends to be easier to get away from busy schedules for a few days than for a week or more. If you’re looking for a place that checks everything on your ‘Weekend Getaway List,’ then check into Sioux Falls.

South Dakota’s largest and most diverse city (60 languages are spoken in the local high school), Sioux Falls embodies small-town friendliness with big-city possibilities. Perhaps the most enchanting thing about this jewel of a city, that rests on a large outcropping of pink-colored rock known as Sioux Quartzite, is the wealth of outdoor art, music and culture.

year-round. The annual exhibit changes its sculptures each year.

In its latest addition, Sculpture Walk has unveiled a permanent, signature piece that is sure to elevate its respected art reputation to one of national prominence. The Arc of Dreams is a massive stainless steel sculpture that spans the width of the Big Sioux River.

The sculpture is nearly the length of a football field and pays tribute to dreamers everywhere.

Art Al Fresco

In addition to its active outdoor art scene, Sioux Falls is home to Washington Pavilion, a worthy destination on its own. Located in a renovated high school, the stately building with its impressive windows and pink Sioux Quartzite exterior is home to off-Broadway productions, presentations, galleries, children’s workshops and a preschool to encourage and inspire discovery and creativity.

In 2004, the city of Sioux Falls decided to embrace the notion of ‘Al Fresco Art’ to add artistic pizzazz to its historical district and introduced Sculpture Walk. Visitors are welcome to see, touch, photograph and pose with more than 50 original outdoor sculptures displayed

In keeping with the al fresco theme, Sioux Falls is also home to Levitt on the Falls, a new outdoor music venue that offers 50 free concerts a year. The enterprising city doesn’t stop with the arts; it also hits the mark with all things on the culinary checklist.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

Cuisine Aplenty

America’s Pinkest City

Whether you prefer to start your day with pastries and coffee or a more downhome meal of bacon and eggs, Josiah’s Coffeehouse and the Phillips Avenue Diner are great morning choices. A great lunch of “cheffed-up sandwiches” can be had at Bread & Circus, run by childhood friends Barry Putzke and Jordan Taylor.

In operation just two years, their Schnitzelwich sandwich (pork tenderloin, horseradish and poppy seed slaw with Dijonaise on Texas toast) was recently designated as one of the nation’s best.

Sioux Falls has been referred to as America’s pinkest city due to the pink-colored Sioux Quartzite in everything from the sidewalks to building exteriors. The hard rock is known as being almost unbreakable. And that bodes well for this community, which has likely watched similarly-sized American cities crumble and fade away. Sioux Falls is tickled pink about its future.

south dakota department of tourism

World Champion Pastry Chef ? Yep, Sioux Falls has that, too. Other than the lack of French accents, you might think you just stepped off the Champs-Élysées when you walk into CH Patisserie. The quaint shop specializes in French sweets and Chef Chris Hammer’s macaron confections render the most talkative group quiet as they quickly become focused on the delightful treats. There are many dinner choices in this vibrant city and you’ll find one of the best at Parker’s Bistro, a restaurant so devoted to fresh food they have fish flown in twice a week for their specials.

south dakota department of tourism

Sioux Falls offers hotels for every budget and preference including large high rises and smaller chains. A new luxury option is the upscale boutique Hotel Phillips. Located in a 100-year-old bank building, the hotel lobby has the original vault with its 16-ton door and a bar a few steps away aptly named The Treasury.

Photos: (opposing page) South Dakota-based sculptor Dale Lamphere envisioned an arc that represented the leap of faith that anyone with a dream must take for their dream to come true. // (above) Sculpture Walk is the largest and most recognized annual exhibit of public art in the U.S. The sculpture of the saxophone player seems to be serenading patrons coming and going from the Phillips Avenue Diner // (left)The Falls of the Big Sioux River are located in a 123-acre park and an easy walk from downtown.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN A YEAR-ROUND PLAYGROUND

By Gabi De la Rosa

Sleeping Bear Dunes are a must-see while visiting Traverse City, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Traverse City, a beautiful northern paradise tucked away on the banks of Lake Michigan in the upper peninsula of the state, is the culmination of outdoor fun, good food and relaxation. Delightful during all four seasons, a direct flight from Texas can get you there any time of year.

The Great Outdoors Beautiful vistas are just part of the attraction in Traverse City – you can snap a good photo from just about anywhere, but nothing is as stunning as getting up high and catching a glimpse of the Great Lakes.

Sleeping Bear Dunes is the perfect spot for doing just that, along with hiking, dune climbing, camping or getting out on the water with a kayak or canoe.

If relaxing on a coastal beach is more your style, there are miles and miles of gleaming beaches to experience. One of the enjoyable differences about a beach along the Great Lakes is that the water is fresh water as opposed to salt water – no salty residue to worry about when you’ve had your fill of the many water activities. Pro

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tip: Camping in the parks and beaches surrounding Traverse City is so popular that campgrounds book up nearly a year in advance, so don’t wait until the last minute to try snagging a prime spot.

Shop ‘Til You Drop When you are ready to take a break from the great outdoors, shopping is just the thing to keep you going, and luckily Traverse City has an abundance of charming shopping destinations. The Village at Grand Traverse Commons is a century-old building that used to be the state-run mental hospital and has since been converted into a mixed-use community of shopping, dining and living space.

The historical integrity of the building was kept intact when it was renovated in the early 2000s, and as you shop or dine, it is easy to see what the building looked like in the 1800s.

The downtown area is also a great shopping destination with treelined streets, quaint shops and unique dining spots. Don’t forget to pick up some Traverse City cherries for the best you’ll ever taste.

Traverse City is known for its craft brewery scene.

Drink Your Fill Michigan is the fourth largest wine growing state in the country, and Traverse City is located on the 45th parallel, which lines up with some of the best wineries in Europe. In addition, the proximity to Lake Michigan protects the vineyards from snow in the winter which means an abundance of wineries to explore and many varieties of local wine to taste. Book a wine tasting tour or just grab a map and head out on your own – but a designated driver is smart.

Most wineries are open year-round, so it is easy to pair up your wine experience with a festival or two. The largest wine festival in the city is Traverse City Uncorked with a host of wine-themed events, tastings and dinners.

If you’d rather get a little hoppy, there are also many craft breweries to try. The beer craze that created Beer City, USA two hours away in Grand Rapids has also swept up Traverse City, and beer aficionados couldn’t be happier. Want to have a flight or two at several breweries?

traverse city cvb

traverse city cvb

Taking a kayak out on the lake is one of the best ways to experience Traverse City.

The beautiful cherry blossoms that bloom each spring make for absolutely stunning landscapes.

Book a Kayak, Bike and Brew tour or hop on the Brew Bus. If you only have time for one, pop in to Rarebird Brewpub for some craft brews and delicious fried cheese curds – sassy balls of cheesy goodness.

Resort Style Filled with charming accommodations from luxury to basic, there is something for everyone at every price point. If you are looking for a hotel with dining, shopping and activities for children as well as adults, the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa has it all. The hotel is large with spacious rooms, great views and good food in their five restaurants and lounges.

There are two indoor and two outdoor pools, complete with water slides, as well as several hot tubs. Tennis courts and a very large fitness center make it easy to get in a workout. There is also a complimentary shuttle that will take you to and from the airport – they truly make staying there a breeze. Their spa was named one of the Top 10 Spas in America, and is perfect for massage, facial or beauty services.

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traverse city cvb

traverse city cvb

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

Ski Colorado WINTER PARK AND STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

By Marika Flatt

We love to bring you a Colorado ski suggestion in each of our issues, because, let’s face it: Texans love to ski in Colorado! On this trip, we’re taking you to Winter Park and Steamboat Springs, two resorts known for pow-pow, epic shredding and snowboarding.

WINTER PARK

Winter Park Resort is only about 3 or 4 miles from Winter Park, the town. If you’re traveling during busy season, accommodations at the resort might be booked up but it’s an easy alternative to stay

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near town. There’s a bus shuttle that runs about every 30 minutes called Lift Rider (download the free app onto your iPhone), which makes it easy to hop-on/hop-off between the two.

Creekside Condos offer comfortable two-bedroom options with spacious living areas and fully stocked kitchens. They are individually owned so you can book through VRBO. The only thing missing is a hot tub. (But we lucked out with a steam shower for thawing off post-skiing.)

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It’s winter in Winter Park far into Texas’ springtime. Turn Spring Break into winter break with a visit to this popular ski town west of Denver. A road trip is approximately 16 hours from Austin or you can fly into Denver and take the Winter Park train that leaves early in the morning, getting skiers into town in time for the lifts to open at 9am. (8:30am on the weekends!)

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

WINNING AT WINTER PARK » Secure your ski rentals the afternoon/ evening before you want to hit the slopes.

Winter Park Rentals has two locations at the resort, open until 8pm. And, they offer a ski valet at no extra charge so your skis and poles can be stored overnight, which is especially helpful if you’re staying in town and commuting on the shuttle. » Winter Park offers over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain. You’ll find an ample supply of green runs for those more conservative or new skiers; and an equal amount of blues for the intermediate among us. The blues range from easier (almost like a green) to a little more challenging, longer runs. (And, of course, black runs for those advanced skiers.) » There’s a tubing hill at the resort that you can reach by way of the Cabriolet lift next to the Vintage Hotel. Make reservations for the one-hour session as walk-ups are a gamble during busy times.

EATS » On mountain, Sunspot Dining Room offers a calm setting for a hearty lunch or, in the same building, try Provisions cafeteria for a lighter, quick lunch. At Provisions, you can choose from soups, chicken fingers, burgers and the like. » For après ski, Hernando’s Pizza Pub has been a staple in Winter Park since the '60s. Along the way, guests started decorating with dollar bills, which are hung on the walls. To date, there’s approximately 36,000 dollar bills adorning the place. When you’re through looking at the decor, start out with cheesy bread and then share pizzas among your group. You can select from a wide range of options, from BBQ to Mediterranean.

Photos: (opposing page) Sunspot offers hearty food and a sunset. // (right, top to bottom) Winter Park offers plenty of winter activities off the mountain, including a tubing hill and an ice skating rink. // Winter Park is a great option for families looking for a fun skiing and snowboarding vacation in Colorado. // Located west of Denver, Winter Park is Colorado’s longest continually operated ski resort. // All courtesy photos.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

STE AM BOAT S PRIN GS (Continued from page 57)

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Always a popular ski and snowboarding destination, Steamboat is high on the list for winter adventurers. Whether you’re traveling as a family or with a group of friends, Steamboat has the mountain and the small town to keep you busy.

Trailhead Lodge is an ideal place to stay, with condos offered in a hotellike setting. You take an elevator up to your floor, follow the hall to your unit, and your own doorway opens up into a spacious kitchen with dining table and living room, flanked by two separate bedrooms. This layout can easily sleep a group of six, with each bedroom having a king bed with separate bathrooms and the foldout sofa in the living room sleeping an additional two.

You’ll love the three-tiered hot tubs and heated pool offered on the ground floor, off the fitness center; and kids will also love the game room that features both traditional games and video gaming. Either of these offer the perfect way to wind down after a day on the mountain. But what you might love most about Trailhead Lodge is the ease of walking right out the front door and catching the gondola up to the ski resort. It really doesn’t get any easier!

STEAM IT UP AT STEAMBOAT

steamboat ski resort/larry pierce

Steamboat is an exceptionally family-friendly mountain, and its ski and snowboard school is known as one of the best in Colorado.

steamboat ski resort/larry pierce

Located just a gondola ride away from the mountain, the Trailhead Lodge is an ideal place for families to stay while visiting Steamboat.

Head over to Timber & Torch across from the gondola for apres-ski drinks and live music

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» At “gondola center” (top of the gondola), you’ll be in the middle of the resort, where you can pick up your rental equipment at any Steamboat Ski & Sport location. Make sure to pick up your rentals upon arrival so you are ready for skiing in the morning. You’ll also want to purchase your lift tickets and Outlaw Mountain Coaster ride vouchers at any ticketing location. » Steamboat has produced a record amount of winter Olympians and their special training facility hosts competitions that can be seen from the lifts. Enjoy perusing U.S. Olympic history through photos and written stories at the mid-mountain cafeteria. » Activities abound at Steamboat, including Old Town Hot Springs, Strawberry Park Hot Springs (a little off the beaten path), art installations, museums and plenty of boutiques. » Steamboat Springs has its own small airport, Hayden Airport. You might choose to fly into Hayden versus flying into Denver Airport and driving over.

EATS » Start a full day of skiing with a hearty breakfast at Timber & Torch at the base of the mountain. An array of eggs Benedict, omelettes or avocado toast will be exactly what you need to fuel a day in the powder. » On the mountain, you’ll find a few cafeterias to choose from where you can take a break with a hot bowl of chili or a slice of pizza. Anyone skiing all day appreciates a lunch break mid-mountain! » After a full day of skiing, no one wants to cook. Salt & Lime is a spicy Mexican café where you can either dine in or (my recommendation), call in your order, pick it up and eat in the comfort of your condo.

You can choose from an array of burritos, tacos and don’t forget the fresh guac! One of the most helpful assets of Trailhead Lodge is the hop-on/hop-off shuttle that can take you to any of the town’s restaurants. Simply call ahead and they’ll arrive to drive you to dinner.

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

VISTA VERDE R AN CH

Owned by a family, the ranch has existed since the ‘70s but, in the ‘90s, the luxury cabins were added to the expansive ranch. In 2006, the beautiful main lodge (where nightly entertainment and three meals a day can be enjoyed) was added, along with a horse arena.

If you want to introduce your kids to snow and the mountains, but you’re not quite ready for a ski vacation, Vista Verde Ranch is an idyllic setting for a vacation that combines traditional activities with laid-back living. All meals are included so guests are treated to delicious dining at their fingertips.

The cabins feel like home with separate bedrooms. Our cabin had two bedrooms downstairs (a king and a queen) and two upstairs (each with two single beds). A luxury kitchen stocked with plenty of beverages and snacks will beckon, yet you don’t have to actually cook in it! A private hot tub sits on your deck, overlooking a large horse

pasture, providing the perfect afternoon setting.

The diversity of programming really sets Vista Verde Ranch apart. In the winter, guests are offered guided activities such as a horsemanship clinic, trail rides, snowshoeing, off-road Nordic cross-country skiing, tubing and ice fishing. Probably the most unique winter activity is snoga, where you snowshoe to a homestead cabin, participate in a yoga class, then snowshoe back.

Kids get to choose whether they want to participate in activities with their families or with other kids through the Adventure Program.

They might choose the Adventure Program for their morning activity and then spend the afternoon with their family. Regardless, every guest gets to choose their own adventure. The ranch also offers indoor workshops, including cooking classes and beer or wine tastings.

We extended our stay at Vista Verde as long as possible and would love to return for a summer experience, at some point. During the winter season, the ranch has a three-night minimum. In summer, guests arrive on a Sunday and depart the following Sunday for a full week’s stay. Vista Verde Ranch is unspoiled terrain enjoyed on a spoiled vacation.

VISTA VERDE BY THE NUMBERS Average January low temp

Average July high temp

Average annual snowfall

Number of sunny days

9.4° F

77° F

297"

241

Vista Verde Ranch features luxury cabins and extensive amenities for families visiting the Steamboat Springs area.

Marika Flatt is the Travel Editor of Texas Lifestyle Magazine and the voice of the “Weekend Trip Tip” on the statewide NPR show, Texas Standard. You can find her travels chronicled on Facebook and Instagram.

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About a 40-minute drive from Steamboat is a luxe dude ranch that you really must experience. Imagine a scene from a Hallmark Christmas movie, with blankets of untouched snow covering wide open spaces.

What you’ll find at Vista Verde Ranch is just as heartwarming as a Hallmark movie but without the drama.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

An Authentic Colorado Fly Fishing Experience Discover The Broadmoor Resort's private fishing retreat

By Doug Flatt

As a chilly Colorado morning breeze sweeps through the mountains and over the river, the water starts teeming with life. Sunrise means fishing time at The Broadmoor Fly Fishing Camp.

the broadmoor

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Approximately 75 miles west of The Broadmoor resort in Colorado Springs lies The Broadmoor Fly Fishing Camp, nestled in the Rockies along the Tarryall River, a tributary of the South Platte. The luxe camp offers a private escape into the wilderness, pairing world-class fly fishing with exceptional accommodations, dining and the level of service expected from The Broadmoor brand.

Offering a great way to try fly fishing with zero risk and no upfront investment, the camp provides everything an angler would need, including rods, reels, waders, flies and—most importantly—local knowledge of the Tarryall and surrounding fisheries.

Fly fishing can be daunting for beginners, but The Broadmoor Fly Fishing Camp ushers you into the sport, gently. “Over 75% of guests have either never picked up a fly rod, or did it with their parents when they were young and now have a ten-year-old that they want to teach to fish,” says General Manager Scott Tarrant.

The guides go above and beyond to make sure you have a memorable experience during your stay. Before the trip, guests fill out a questionnaire so the guides can create a personal experience for each angler (women included). If there’s a specific skill that you want to learn, like fishing with streamers, learning new knots or learning to tie flies, the camp is fully equipped, with expert guides to teach new skills on the water.

The camp has the highly regarded designation as an Orvis Endorsed fly fishing lodge. One of the most important factors Orvis considers when endorsing lodges is the quality of the fishery. Tarrant’s background is not in hotel management, but in fly fish guiding, fisheries and wildlife management. He takes a simple approach to managing the resources he is entrusted with, and lets the rich biomass that exists in the river help build a healthy trout fishery.

From delicious meals to rustic but comfy lodging, this camp specializes in offering trips that you’ll never forget. During your stay, all meals are provided. The food is nothing short

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

of delicious, and their wagyu steaks might just be the best meal you’ll eat all year. Perhaps even better than the food is the camaraderie with other guests. All the meals are shared family-style, so it’s a great way to meet people and swap fish stories.

The authentic feel from the moment you step on the property is real because the entire operation is run by fly fishermen who are passionate about what they do.

Whether it’s your first time with a fly rod in your hand or you’re a seasoned angler, put your trust in the guides. If there are fish to be found, they will find them. If you follow their direction, you will be much more likely to net a fish. These guides spend most of their waking hours on the water. They know what the fish are keying in on and the best techniques to use. They are eager to share their passion for fly fishing.

Tarrant’s background is not in hotel management, but in fly fish guiding, fisheries and wildlife management. He takes a simple approach to managing the resources he is entrusted with, and lets the rich biomass that exists in the river help build a healthy trout fishery.

Fly fishing is often perceived as a difficult sport to learn, but the guides are there to demystify this perception and introduce it in a way that’s fun, educational and experiential.

Fly fishing is a sport for the whole family, including wives, sisters and daughters. Women tend to be more intuitive and, more often than not, pick up fly fishing much faster than their male counterparts.

The sport of fly fishing is also a great teacher of patience and perseverance; you become skilled in being observant and learn how to be present. The connection to nature, the river and the beautiful fish can be a life-changing experience for every angler. The star attraction at The Broadmoor Fly Fishing Camp is the incredible fishery, but the world class service that comes standard with The Broadmoor brand will bring you back to cast again.

Photos: (clockwise from top left) A view of the Tarryall River in Colorado on a bright sunny summer day. // A gorgeous rainbow trout caught on a streamer by a fly fishing camp guest. // Clouds mirrored on the surface of the Tarryall River above the Tarryall Reservoir. // A crisp Colorado evening with the fly fishing camp lodge in the background. // The Broadmoor Fly Fishing Camp main dining area is where all meals are served family style. // All photography courtesy The Broadmoor.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

Telluride The Ultimate Rocky Mountain High

By Emily Bond

The gondola above Telluride and the valley below, awash with the golden colors of fall.

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visit telluride/ryan bonneau

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

A

Rocky Mountain town brimming with history and present-day cool, Telluride, Colorado is a place of awe-inspiring beauty and otherworldly atmosphere. Historically known for mining, outlaws, and surprising technical innovations, Telluride is now most often compared to a mountain resort in the Swiss Alps.

It’s easy to see why: the town is surrounded by the San Juan Mountains and engenders a quiet, walledgarden feeling of being hidden and protected.

Telluride has the same eclectic vibe as Austin, with a few high-end touches you’d expect from Houston or Dallas; but tempered with the relaxed Western tempo of the town.

Getting to Telluride is simple and comfortable with the new jet service to Telluride Regional Airport (TEX), only 15 minutes outside of town and available on Denver Air Connection (partnered with United Airlines). Another option, and perhaps the more economical one, is the Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), 65 miles from Telluride. Pro tip: Opt for a transport company like Telluride Express to get you to and from the airport reliably.

Once there, Telluride is an extremely walkable city as the historic downtown is only six blocks wide and twelve blocks long. Take immediate advantage of North America’s first and only free gondola up the San Juans that connect you to the neighboring town of Mountain Village. You’ll get the lay of the land and begin this adventure with an exhilarating yet unhurried climb through the mountains.

Stay at The Hotel Telluride - a chalet-style boutique hotel that exudes an aura of Rocky Mountain high. Travelers of all sizes and breeds (the hotel is very dog-friendly) can indulge in the amenities of an upscale hotel in the rustic and relaxed vibe of a well-appointed ski lodge. In the

hotel lobby, you’ll see a massive elk antler chandelier high in the wood-beamed ceilings, a rustic stone fireplace and deep leather couches flanked by gorgeous Southwestern-patterned chairs. Chess boards, local newspapers and a help-yourself coffee bar balance the grand room’s bolder presentations.

This 59-room boutique hotel has stately rooms, custom-made mattresses (you’ll never want to leave), and a friendly and incredibly helpful staff.

Did you forget sunscreen, sunglasses, or maybe even a breast pump? They’ve heard it all and will not only guide you to Sunshine Pharmacy, but let you in on the must-have local goods like Tim’s Trauma Balm made with CBD oil. During the fall, book the Mountains and Morels package, an offering unique to The Hotel Telluride. (The experience is available from August until the first frost, and must be booked 14 days in advance.)

If you’d rather look up than down, then book their Wings Over Telluride package (available through December 20, 2019). Telluride is best seen through the eyes of a local and the hotel has done a phenomenal job in making sure guests have the insider’s experience.

Walking into Telluride’s Historic Downtown is an easy ten-minute stroll. Or, grab one of the hotel’s cruiser bikes for a bit more speed. Telluride has an impressive stretch of bike paths, one that even leads straight to the Telluride Brewing Co. where you can try micro-brews made from the snow melt off the Rockies.

Colorado Street is the main downtown drag, lined with Victorian homes and other architectural marvels. Local restaurants and eclectic shops sit like picturesque bookends to Bridal Veil Falls. Known for its winter sports due to the highest concentration of 13,000-foot peaks in the Rockies, the town has a supremely unpretentious ambience year-round, and much more to offer than just hitting the slopes.

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A mule deer fawn at Miramonte Reservoir, just one example of the abundant wildlife around Telluride.

eric hynes

Stroll or grab a hotel bike for an easy ride to historic downtown. Telluride has an impressive stretch of bike paths.

the hotel telluride

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Grab a bite from The Grilled Cheese A La Cart - the brie and apricot is as good as everyone says. From there, indulge in some local shopping at the Telluride Trappings and Toggery and Hook for souvenirs. With happy hour fast approaching, saunter towards the gondola and ride up to Allred’s. Sitting pretty at 10,000 feet, order a Spiced Mule and take in the most jaw-dropping view. Feel underdressed? Remember, layers. A cashmere sweater can go far in this town, but keep your hiking boots.

When ready for dinner, ride the gondola back down and ease your way to Cosmo’s.

The restaurant is, oddly enough, well-known for its seafood. Try the Lobster Corn Dogs and the Wild Blueberry Pie. Wrap up the night with a cocktail at There...Telluride, a cocktail bar off Pacific Avenue.

French Toast with fresh orange zest is on the menu at the hotel’s breakfast buffet, then sit by the roaring fire with your coffee in the lobby. Grab a copy of the local newspaper - bear sightings and the police report are particularly entertaining. Soon the hotel manager will hand you a packed lunch for the day and Eric Hynes will flutter in for your birding tour. Hynes, of Field Guides, Inc., meets with birding newbies to twitchers (experienced birders) for full or half-day excursions. The guide has a knack for spotting feathers from afar and the San Juan Mountain region is filled with them.

On our first outing, we spotted a peregrine falcon (the fastest creature on earth), several bald eagles and all manner of sparrows and finches.

the hotel telluride

The West End Bistro at The Hotel Telluride offers a memorable dining experience in an intimate setting.

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After several hours of mountainside birding, you’ll need a pick-me-up. In town, head to The Butcher and the Baker. It’s a foodie haven with homemade pastries and midday fare. Telluride is teeming with festivals, so be sure to get lost walking around Elk Park and in and out of shops while catching live music or performances downtown.

Have dinner at 221 South Oak. Try and snag a table in the somewhat hidden back garden and try the local Rocky Mountain Elk T-Bone with Huckleberry Mostarda.

Grab a late night cup of Willie Nelson’s CBD-infused coffee at La Cocina de Luz and call it a night.

the hotel telluride

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

The next morning calls for donuts and chorizo breakfast tacos at Baked in Telluride, then it’s back to the hotel for mushroom hunting. San Juan Outdoor Adventures' guide Tara Butson meets guests in the hotel lobby with a few mycology goodies (a mushroom-cutting knife and mushroom-foraging book), before setting off in her SUV. Butson points out famous peaks, former mines and the Ames and Smuggler-Union Power Plant, made famous by 19th century electrical pioneer Nikola Tesla, on the way up to Lizard Head Wilderness Area.

At dog-friendly Hotel Telluride, travelers of all sizes and breeds are very welcome.

the hotel telluride

Many of the local chefs in town also take advantage of the abundance of edible fungi and you'll find other foragers along the trails who have respectfully taken only what they need; or a King Bolete ravaged by a hungry mountain goat. Butson’s secondin-command, Lindsay Red, who will soon rock climb her way to the top of the San Juans for her wedding, points out the difference between the poisonous and edible before foragers begin their hike. The trek stays at a slow and steady pace, as foraging for mushrooms requires a certain amount of patience. (It’s the Where’s Waldo of fungi.)

But once you spot a chanterelle in the wild, you’ll feel like a highlander combing the mountainside.

With your bag filled with morels, porcinis and wild garlic, you’re ready to present your bounty to The Hotel Telluride’s Chef Zamora of The West End. The Mountains and Morels package includes a private three-course gourmet dinner incorporating the harvested mushrooms and wine pairings.

After a lengthy day of playing “spot the morels,” or “peeking at peregrine falcons,” soothe your muscles with a massage back at The Hotel Telluride - opt for the CBDinfused oil add-in. If you’re short on time but still need to relax, check out the salt cave inside Pure Beauty Wellness and Spa. At only 45 minutes, the salt cave treatment provides a quick detox and rejuvenation, and supposedly all manner of health and beauty benefits. End the night at Hotel Telluride’s hot tub, directly outside the bar window for easy access to all your prosecco needs.

Indulge in the amenities of an upscale hotel set in the rustic and relaxed vibe of a wellappointed ski lodge at The Hotel Telluride.

Dress Code Leave the heels at home. Telluride has a supremely relaxed dress code. Unlike other more high-end Colorado towns, you’re more likely to see a multi-millionaire going to 221 South Bistro in a pair of Keens and jeans. Make sure you pack a pair of hiking boots, a few more layers (you never know when that first frost will hit), and sunglasses. Pull out some vintage L.L.Bean outdoor wear stuffed away in your closet to bump up your mountain chic cred. At night, don a black cashmere sweater for bar hopping and prAna water-resistant hiking pants with a pair of Merrells for the day, and you’re good to go.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

Savannah, Georgia

S

Where Tradition & Sophistication Marry for an A+ in Southern Charm

By Marika Flatt

ome places you don’t want to leave and others, like Savannah, don’t leave you. As #VisitSavannah says, “There’s something magical about this place. Your actual magic may vary.” Intimacy and access to history are key in this Southern staple.

It is the 25th anniversary of both the long-time bestselling book, “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” and the release of the uber-popular movie, “Forrest Gump,” both of which take place in Savannah.

Savannah’s superpower, that makes it ideal for Hollywood’s movie industry, is its grid structure that was created in 1733, a revered city design called the Oglethorpe Plan. This Southern charmer has 22 parks, also known as squares. Back in the day, these squares encouraged interaction between people of different walks of life, promoting inclusion and socialization.

The most popular of the parks is Forsyth Park, designed by Alexander Olmstead who also designed New York City’s Central Park. You’ll recognize Forsyth Park as the one with the large fountain featured in so many popular images of Savannah.

It is in these parks that you can do some of the best people watching to spot some of Savannah’s local characters, or you can watch a one-person yoga session happening right beside you. And for a real treat, Savannah Picnic Company can prepare a picnic in the park for you, complete with table, linens, food and drink, as you sit on cushions with a view of a splashing fountain.

A Luxury Collection Hotel Where Style Resides

Perry Lane Hotel, A Luxury Collection, is the new chic kid on the block in Savannah. (The term “lane” in Savannah is an alleyway where, in the past, deals were made.) This hotel, which opened in June 2018, and features 167 rooms, is the epitome of purposeful design.

Each room, with its immaculate detail, makes you feel like you never want to leave. From the comfy couch and ottoman, to the delicious Frette Italian bed linens and the shower with ideal water pressure, this is where you want to lay your head. The modern

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design and quality of materials speak for themselves throughout the hotel. (After all, when filming occurs in Savannah, where do you think the stars stay?)

Savannah’s height map notes you cannot build higher than five stories. You can have a bonus floor if it is an active rooftop, so on the roof of the Perry Lane Hotel you will find The Peregrin bar and a small pool overlooking the town.

The library off the lobby has a layered design, much like a Savannah estate home, with over 3,600 found and collected objects, locally sourced. It is here that you can see a painting of Adelaide Harcourt, the muse of Perry Lane Hotel who traveled the world and “welcomes all wayward travelers.” You can try her signature cocktail in the bar and look for a special turndown note from the muse herself.

A few of my favorites at Perry Lane Hotel include the signature scent as you walk in and the vintage suitcases scattered throughout the lobby. And visitors enjoy tunes from a piano player in the library.

Another highlight is the impeccable customer service that you will experience from the valet and doormen to the front lobby staff.

A Living History

PERRYLANEHOTEL .COM

Hotels and destinations are discovering that visitors want to submerge themselves in local activities, to “live like a local.” Towns rich in history are doubling down on experiences with interesting locals, such as the architectural tour with Genteel and Bard (more about that later).

You will notice artistic fingerprints all over town from the famous Savannah College of Art and Design. There are SCAD buildings everywhere and the sense of design in this town is riveting.

Savannah is a very literary town. Two independent bookstores pay homage to its rich history and the historic Savannah Theatre is the oldest running theater in Georgia.

Tourism is king in Savannah with nearly 14 million visitors per year and tourism bringing in $2.2 billion annually. As mentioned, the film industry is taken with this Southern charmer. Disney’s remake of “Lady and the Tramp” was recently filmed in Savannah. And of course, the Hallmark Channel films many a movie in Savannah.

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

A Few of Our Favorite Things

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» Check out the bakery called Chocolat, where you can find decadent desserts displayed in classic books.

Enjoy tunes from a piano player in the library at the Perry Lane Hotel.

» Savannah boasts the second largest St. Patrick’s Day festivities in the country with a parade that is four hours long. » If you are a musician, you will love seeing Benedetto guitars handmade in Savannah. They range in price from $50-$250,000.

You will never want to leave your room at the Perry Lane Hotel, which blends luxury with immaculate detail.

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» The Girl Scouts of America was founded by Juliette Gordon Lowe, whose hometown was Savannah.

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One of the best places to gaze across the Savannah cityscape is from a hammock on the roof of the Perry Lane Hotel.

» Take a walking tour with TC of Genteel & Bard. Start off with your own personalized headset, listening to jazz musician Ben Tucker. You’ll know all the secrets of Savannah by the end!

Delicious Dining

Emporium restaurant, just off the lobby of Perry Lane Hotel, is classic mixed with modern design. Locals love it for its standbys like oysters and other Southern delicacies. Try the pork chop for dinner (especially if you never eat or order pork chops). It is also a great spot for a hearty Southern breakfast such as their own twist on Eggs Benedict made with house-made biscuits instead of the typical English muffin. The queen of the breakfast table is their cane water grits, full of salty butter and cooked to perfection. Chicken hash is one of their most popular breakfast dishes and they even serve pimento cheese at breakfast!

If you’re in the mood for sweets, enjoy a cappuccino with Emporium’s famous sticky buns.

The Grey is a restaurant repurposed from an old Greyhound bus station with a chef recently named a James Beard award winner. Start with the broccoli rabe, served over falafel. Pair this with

a bold cabernet. For your entrée, move on to the Yardbird (roasted chicken) or the Mushroom Ragout, a layer of housemade pasta over a delightful combination of fresh mushrooms.

The Collins Quarter is a convenient spot for lunch, just a few blocks from Perry Lane Hotel. You’ll dine on fresh gourmet burgers, sandwiches, salads and sides. Brunch is served all morning and afternoon.

Getting Out

Glow medical spa and beauty boutique, just around the corner from Perry Lane Hotel, offers in-room massages and facials. Treat yourself to this decadent activity which will add to your overall experience of Savannah. How nice it is not to have to dress and go anywhere for this special treatment.

Many visitors don’t spend time on the water in Savannah but we highly recommend a boat trip. The only screen you’ll need on this day is sunscreen.

Take a boat ride on the river to the unassuming The Wyld restaurant where you can get fresh seafood and a cold beer.

Take a rooftop yoga class at Perry Lane Hotel. Offered one morning and one evening per week, next to the rooftop pool, it’s a great way to start or end a day of activity.

Savannah is a cocktail kind of town.

If you’re looking for cocktails with character, head over to Artillery where you can enjoy the Artillery Rum, a fruity beverage served in a metal pineapple cup. Or, if you want to stay a little closer to home, have drinks at The Wayward, a bar on the bottom floor of Perry Lane Hotel where you can meet new friends over their famous Painkiller.

If you’re looking for something active, check out a bike from Perry Lane Hotel and enjoy wandering around town.

(Savannah is also very walkable.) Or, if you’re feeling like being a little lazy, just chill out at the rooftop pool with a cocktail from Peregrin.

VISITSAVANNAH.COM

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

Capturing the Old Spirit Like No Other

Journey or destination? How ‘bout both!

By Samantha Cook

Ask around and folks adore New Mexico. There’s an old-world charm and peaceful vibe that lures Texans in. And since we’re neighbors, loads of visitors arrive from the Lone Star State. There are many towns to explore in NM, but two of the best-known are Santa Fe and Albuquerque, both with good air links if you’re not up for a road trip. (Austin to Santa Fe is 11 or 12 hours by car.)

New Mexico boasts skiing in the winter and a respite from the Texas heat in the summer. Choose your season and hit the road.

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Downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico.

istock

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

meowwolf.com

Photos: (above) Take a break from reality and relax in a hammock at Four Seasons Rancho Encantado. // (left) Expect the funky and the surprising at Meow Wolf as you wander through the interactive exhibit.

Start your visit with a stay at the Four Seasons Rancho Encantado (“Enchanted Forest”) which has hosted a gaggle of celebs over the years, including John Wayne, Jimmy Stewart and Princess Grace to name a few, and where you’ll enjoy luxury at every turn. Villas are in the traditional adobe style and the resort caters to couples, with casitas featuring a king bedroom with oversized bathroom separated from a living room (with a foldout sofa for kids, if needed), a small kitchen area and half bath. Curl up in front of a fire inside or outdoors on the patio.

Enjoy a delicious hearty breakfast at Terra restaurant. Try their chilaquiles or breakfast burrito filled with short rib, pico de gallo and a side of fresh avocado.

Take the 45-60 minute Camino Encantado guided hike (no extra charge) from the resort’s adventure center to stretch your legs and learn about the history of the area. There are additional complimentary resort activities offered on various days of the week. Also, you can take advantage of

the resort’s complimentary shuttle to downtown.

In Santa Fe, head over to the now-famous Meow Wolf. It’s unlike any other museum you’ve ever been to. Be aware that, because of its popularity, there’s often a queue snaking outside. (They are planning an online reservation system to better cope with the demand.)

Guests wander through the “Eternal Return” house, looking for clues as to what happened to the family that once lived there. Expect the funky and the surprising as you gaze upon uber-unusual works of art. (Ever wanted to walk through a refrigerator or slide down a dryer?) Adults $29/kids $21 Right around the corner, enjoy lunch at the Second Street Brewery Rufina Taproom. Savor a selection of craft beers, like their Aqua Fria pilsner (traditional, but not), with a wide selection of scrumptious appetizers. The nachos and hummus represent Mexican and Mediterranean cuisines but the star is the Canadian poutine (French fries covered in gravy and melted cheddar cheese curds).

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Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa

D AY O N E 3:00 pm Check in and get situated in your room. The hotel’s business is 65% conferences so the rooms are fairly standard. However, if you come with a family, check out a suite with an adjoining standard room.

With this option, you’ll have a small kitchen, a living room, a king room with bathroom and the adjoining room with be a standard with two double beds.

Enjoy your patio (if you’re on the first floor, keep your patio door closed when you’re not coming in or out because of critters) which overlooks the Turquoise hike and bike trail.

3:30 pm 80-minute massage at Tamaya Mist Spa & Salon The massage is fantastic (and nowhere does time pass faster than on a massage table), but what you’ll also want to make plenty of time for are the spa’s amenities. You can easily spend a half day here, enjoying the heated Jacuzzi, dry sauna and steam room with eucalyptus spray (especially helpful for Texans acclimating to the dry desert). The relaxation room will make time stand still as you read a book in the ultimate comfort of a chaise lounge.

6:00 pm Dinner at Corn Maiden Enjoy a hearty menu at the resort’s fine dining restaurant, also suitable for kids. Start dinner with a Corn Maiden salad (large enough for two), then move on to enjoy their chicken and grits or the Native Beef short rib (the tasty meat is served over corn spoonbread and crispy mushrooms). Finish off with a creamy white chocolate raspberry cheesecake paired with a bold cabernet.

D AY T W O Breakfast at your leisure Enjoy room service with a green chile omelet or kids’ pancakes with chicken sausage. Add in some seasonal fruit and berries with a large coffee and you’ll be set for the day.

9:00 am Horseback trail ride at the Stables at Tamaya Catch a shuttle over to the stables where you’ll find rescue horses ready to ride. You’ll hop on to the saddle of your prearranged horse and enjoy a calm ride through pastures, where you’ll end up at the Rio Grande River. Wear sunscreen and say yes to a helmet.

11:00 am Pool time and lunch After a dusty ride, change into your swimsuit and enjoy the Plaza pool, where you’ll get a wristband and kids can enjoy the twists and turns of the enclosed water slide. There are two other pools on property; Kiva is adults only and the Oxbow is a winding pool.

At the Plaza Bar & Grill, enjoy a delicious lunch poolside where you can start with a local craft IPA and chips and queso. Kids will love their nonalcoholic margaritas and pina coladas with flavors like raspberry and mango. If you’re looking to lunch on the lighter side, try the Vegan Power Pack (quinoa, black beans, butternut squash, corn and sweet peppers) or the turkey caprese wrap in a spinach tortilla.

Also poolside, you can enjoy games like ladder ball or check out equipment for the nearby tennis court. Or, take a walk through the nearby hummingbird garden.

7:00 pm Dinner at Corn Maiden On Friday and Saturday nights, choose from the extensive specials in a buffet ($28 adults/$14 kids) which leaves nothing wanting-including dessert. Pair with a nice chardonnay.

7:00 pm S’mores in the courtyard (Adults can stay in the restaurant and let the kids go out to socialize!)

8:00 pm Storytelling Under the Stars

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Dishes at Pueblo Harvest Cafe in Albuquerque are rooted in traditional Pueblo and Southwest culture.

caitlin cano /pueblo harvest

Approximately 50 minutes south of Santa Fe and 20 minutes north of Albuquerque, you’ll find the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort, on land owned by the Santa Ana pueblo tribe. One of 19 pueblos in New Mexico, the Santa Ana tribe owns 79,000 acres and the resort sits on 550 of them. Set in the middle of desert, the resort is built in the typical Southwestern pueblo architectural style. If you’re looking to see both Santa Fe and Albuquerque, this resort is an ideal family-friendly option, perfectly suited for a three-night stay. Here’s a sample itinerary for your visit.

courtesy photo

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

D AY T H R E E 9:00 am Tee time at Twin Warriors Golf Club Enjoy a round on their well-manicured 18-hole course in the high desert. Highlights include 20 ancient cultural sites of native habitation and a sacred butte known as Tuyuna among views of the Sandia Mountains.

1:00 pm Explore Albuquerque (see sidebar) or enjoy the resort’s many family-friendly activities such as adobe brick making, a cultural center tour, leather stamping, or a nature walk on the Bosque (cottonwood forest) Trail.

D AY F O U R 10:00 am Tamaya Traditions bread-making class Work with a baker to learn how to make oven bread in a traditional Huruna oven. courtesy photo

12:00 pm Check out Photos: (right, top) Built in the typical Southwestern pueblo architectural style, the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa nestles into the surrounding desert landscape. // (bottom) The stables at Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa provide a home for rescue horses that are ready to take you on a relaxing trail ride.

A Day1 in Albuq1uerq1ue » Ride the Sandia Peak tram (adults $25/kids $20) for a breathtaking view of the town. Take a 14-minute tram ride up the mountain where you’ll enjoy expansive views. Then hike (if it’s warm enough) and see the ski runs marked by vintage signs. Don’t miss the periscopes, each individually labeled for various spots around Albuquerque like the airport, mountains and parks.

Take a ride on the Sandia Peak tram to enjoy a grand view of Albuquerque and the surrounding mountains.

jay blackwood

» Enjoy an authentic New Mexican lunch at Pueblo Harvest Café where you can dine on Indian Taco Bites, a Pueblo burger or the Sovereign bison burger. As they say in Albuquerque, “Our food takes 20 minutes to cook and 300 years to prepare.” » Wrap up the afternoon at the ABQ BioPark which includes a zoo, an aquarium and a botanical garden. Spend as much or as little time as you like. Know that if you visit the zoo in the afternoon, many animals might be napping if it’s hot outside.

The aquarium will be a cool respite in the summer. Also, fishing is allowed at Tingley Beach.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

With white sand and blue water, you’ll quickly find out where the name of this beach comes from: Clearwater.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

Clearwater & St. Pete, Florida Award-Winning Beaches on the Gulf of Mexico

By Samantha Cook

Clearwater Nothing soothes the soul quite like the feeling of soft white sand between your toes and cool ocean water splashing onto the shore.

With so many options for beach vacations in the Southeast, it might be hard to pick the perfect one.

With the ideal mix of good food, hip town and immaculate coastlines, neighboring towns of Clearwater and St. Pete shine as the ultimate double Florida beach getaway. Just a short plane ride from Texas to Tampa, Clearwater and St. Pete are only a half hour from Tampa’s airport.

Named Tripadvisor’s #1 beach in America, Clearwater Beach offers a long strip of white sand dotted with new hotels, beach bars and seafood grills. The Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort is a towering pink and playful beachfront hotel. The resort boasts enormous rooms, each of them suites with the minimum of an efficiency kitchen.

The hotel is perfectly situated, a short walk from Pier 60, full of family entertainment.

Home to world-famous sunsets, Pier 60

features artisans, crafters and street performers every night of the year. Also at the Hyatt, enjoy dinner at SHOR American Seafood Grill, which prepares a variety of healthy upscale American and regional seafood dishes, all from an open kitchen. Try the lobster mac paired with a crisp chardonnay.

For breakfast, Another Broken Egg is a delicious option that the whole family will enjoy. The first location was in New Orleans, called Broken Egg, and the others came after.

Start with a true Southern breakfast appetizer, powdered sugar beignets. The pancake flight is a unique dish that soothes any sweet tooth.

And for a big day kickstarter, we recommend the country power bowl with a base of biscuit and gravy topped with eggs and sausage. The restaurant also offers a unique mug for each location that you can purchase as a souvenir.

Just minutes away from the resort are numerous dining options that will satisfy your seafood cravings. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill, located right on the beach, is known for its live music and delicious grouper (a flaky white fish). Order that grouper either

on a platter or the more popular grouper sandwich. But first, try their smoky fish dip which you’ll come back for!

The Palm Pavilion restaurant was voted as one of the best beach bars in Clearwater/ St. Pete. At 93 years old, the restaurant is the oldest beach pavilion in the Southeastern U.S. Besides offering delicious food and drinks, the Palm Pavilion is one of the best places to watch the sunset while listening to great live tunes. Grab a table on the outdoor patio with a view of the ocean and kick back a few local craft beers, like the Jai Alai IPA (brewed in Tampa and available at Texas’ H-E-B stores), or The Palm Rum Runner with grouper nuggets, fried mozzarella cheese sticks or tacos.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a fun educational experience where you can learn about many underwater species, including lots of Florida’s native sea creatures.

The movie Dolphin Tale was actually filmed at the aquarium and the aquatic stars of the movie, Hope and Winter, still live there and delight crowds every day.

The Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach offers suite-style rooms right on the beach, perfect for a family getaway.

Known for live music and delicious grouper, Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill is a great place to get a bite to eat on the beach.

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courtesy photo

courtesy photo

courtesy photo

(Continued on page 76)

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside (Continued from page 75)

Palm Harbor

Florida

Dunedin

Tampa Safety Harbor

Clearwater

60

Old Tampa Bay

275

92

Largo

Seminole

St. Pete Beach

St. Petersburg

Gulf City

Located just down the road from Clearwater lies St. Pete Beach.

275

Longboat Key

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Sun City

Tampa Bay

Rubonia

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Jet Setter Stateside

St. Pete Beach Located just down the road from Clearwater lies St. Pete Beach. Named the #4 best beach in America, St. Pete offers the same beautiful white-sand beaches, but with a less touristy vibe.

Known as “The Pink Palace,” the 91-yearold Don CeSar hotel is a legendary place to stay. The hotel was built in 1928 by Thomas Rowe, who bought the entire strip of beach for $100,000. The hotel started as a popular destination for Hollywood celebrities before becoming a military convalescent home. Now owned

by Host Hotels, the hotel offers luxurious accommodations and delicious dining. The hotel’s signature scent, “The Gatsby,” can be enjoyed upon arrival in the lobby. And, fun fact, they use 10,000 gallons of pink paint per year in upkeep!

At the Don, The Sea Porch starts the day as a dining room for breakfast (try the croissant sandwich), and then transforms into the Rowe Bar for the evening, offering healthy dishes like caprese salad, blackened mahi-mahi and grilled chicken with broccolini. After a day on the beach or by the pool, it’s nice to enjoy dinner on property.

Spanning across five different sandy islands, Fort De Soto is perfect for an afternoon family adventure. Plan to spend a few hours at the park for birdwatching and exploring the beaches. For an onthe-water experience, check out See Through Adventures kayak tours.

These see-through canoes offer a chance to see manatees, dolphins, rays and other marine life.

For a quick bite to eat, Locale Market is in downtown St. Pete and offers Mexican bowls, pizzas, sandwiches and market food.

You can park in the nearby parking garage, grab a tasty lunch there, pick up some additional picnic items and do a walkabout downtown. Walk along the marina harbor for a peaceful jaunt.

For art enthusiasts, St. Pete is home to The Dali museum, which is dedicated to the works of the groundbreaking Spanish master artist. The museum boasts the largest collection of Salvador Dali’s work outside of Europe.

There are a host of other small beach communities worth a day visit, all within easy driving distances. Sunscreen is the only screen you’ll need on this trip!

Photos: (above, top left, counterclockwise) Located inside the Don CeSar, Rowe Bar is a great option for dining without ever having to leave the hotel property. // The 91-year-old “Pink Palace” is a unique and luxurious place to stay during a visit to St. Pete Beach. // Ranked #4 on Tripadvisor, St. Pete Beach is home to some of the whitest sand on the Gulf coast. // All courtesy photos.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Road Trip

A Little Lubbock Love

By Marika Flatt

From wherever you are in Texas, Lubbock might seem like a daunting road trip, but it’s very doable (approximately six hours from Austin). And for many Texans headed to New Mexico or Colorado for either skiing or summertime cooler weather, Lubbock is a worthy midway stopover for the night. Whatever the reason that takes you to Texas Tech University’s Red Raider land, we have a few suggestions for your visit.

STAY The Arbor Hotel

Pioneer Pocket Hotel

Part of Choice Hotels’ Ascend Hotel Collection, The Arbor Hotel Conference Center is conveniently located off the Loop, near plenty of restaurants and not far from the university. You’ll find this hotel just what you need for a quick stay. The rooms are spacious, the beds are inviting with luxury linens and, most importantly, a hot breakfast is included with your stay. (For a family, this is a real saving!)

Located on one floor of the historic former Pioneer Flour headquarters building, this hotel’s rooms are all suite-style and each has their own upscale decor, sure to wow any weary traveler. The rest of the building is used for mixed-use commercial, retail (on the bottom floor, you’ll find a coffee shop and a brewery) and residential condos.

Also appreciated are the amenities of free WiFi, an outdoor pool and fitness room.

You’ll find this hotel to be a great value (rooms start at only $126/night), clean and quiet. (Unless it’s a game weekend!)

Floor three is where you’ll find those upscale suites. The hotel’s known as Lubbock’s most high-end accommodation and it’s fully automated. There’s no front desk and

everything from booking to check-in and check-out is done digitally.

You’ll enjoy the spaciousness of the suites and the layout. You’ll likely also enjoy having a mini kitchen, comfortable beds and a modern vibe. The hotel is located in Lubbock’s old downtown district, which the city is aiming to revitalize.

Photos: (above, left to right) The Arbor Hotel and Conference Center is perfect for a quick stay, conveniently located off the Loop near plenty of restaurants. // The upscale Pioneer Pocket Hotel is located on one floor of Lubbock’s historic Pioneer Flour building. // Cocina de La Sirena is known for authentic Latin-inspired cuisine featuring farm-to-table ingredients. // Located near the Pioneer Pocket Hotel, the Cast Iron Grill is a favorite Lubbock hangout and serves up down-home hearty Texas dishes. // Catch some great live music at the Blue Light Live. // Visit Lubbock’s art district, home to the popular LHUCA, Charles Adams, Tornado and Casp galleries. // Learn about the history of ranching at the National Ranching Heritage Center. // The Buddy Holly Center is home to the iconic glasses sculpture and honors Lubbock's most famous native, Buddy Holly. // Eat delicious local barbecue at Evie Mae’s. // All courtesy photos.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Road Trip

E AT

11 Picks for Your West Texas Trip

The Funky Door You’ll be hard-pressed to find a cooler eatery in the panhandle than this one. Only about a half mile from The Arbor Hotel, this hip bistro and wine bar does not disappoint, starting with their funky door at the entrance! The atmosphere is a perfect blend of stylish eatery and hip hangout, without feeling pretentious.

The Funky Door features 10,000 bottles of wine with around 850 displayed on their impressive multi-story wine tower in the middle of the restaurant. They offer live music every night, which really adds to the ambiance, and they have impressive local artists’ work for sale, which essentially turns the restaurant into an art gallery.

And the food… it’s worth the visit on its own. Start with a Mediterranean trio of avocado hummus, red pepper hummus and tabouli served with pita bread and veggies or The Funky Door’s version of fried cheese in phyllo dough. The wasabi and pistachio-crusted chicken with mushroom risotto or the squash lasagna or lobster mac & cheese are all hearty comfort food choices. But the three cheese risotto might just be the star of the show!

Cocina de La Sirena In Lubbock’s Cactus Alley Courtyard, mother and daughter team Cat Traxler and Jessica Fultz have created this mermaid-themed eatery. This is where to go for authentic Latininspired cuisine in Lubbock. The healthy farm-to-table fresh ingredients are front-and-center in this intimate setting.

Order some starters to share around the table, such as their poblano “fries” (fried poblano peppers), queso and the salsa duo. Then enjoy empanadas, street tacos or stacked enchiladas (which really look like loaded chalupas). All dishes could and should be paired with a margarita.

And, save room in your dessert pocket for their Mexican Wedding cookies or their Chocolate Chile Tart in a coconut crust.

Cast Iron Grill Less than a mile from the Pioneer Pocket Hotel is a tried-and-true local favorite and a breakfast feast you won’t forget! Cast Iron Grill is full of down-home hearty dishes like chicken fried steak and eggs. (Their slogan is “It’s all about the boots and the pie and the chicken fry!”) You’ll also be pleased with their omelette (which you can build) served with delicious house-made biscuits and gravy and a hash brown on the side. You’ll be “full as a tick” but no one ever said you can’t have dessert with breakfast! They’re known for their pies and a local favorite is the Texas Delight, layers of sandy cookie, chocolate mousse, vanilla and cream cheese. Take it to go if you can’t finish it there.

1.

Wine tasting (McPherson Cellars, Llano Estacado Winery, Burklee Hill Vineyards, Pheasant Ridge Winery, CapRock Winery)

2.

Live music at The Blue Light Live

3.

Visit the Arts District for LHUCA, Charles Adams Gallery, Tornado Gallery and CASP

4.

Breweries: Two Docs Brewing and The Brewery LBK

5.

Learn about the history of ranching at the National Ranching Heritage Center

6.

Pay tribute to Buddy Holly and see memorabilia from his life and music at the Buddy Holly Center

7.

See Texas Tech University’s Public Art Collection with more than 100 pieces of art

8.

Eat barbecue at Evie Mae’s

9.

Take a swing at 4ORE! Golf

10. See a tribute show at the 10.

Cactus Theater 11. Try Lubbock’s signature 11. cocktail – The Chilton

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Road Trip

Rockin’

B Ranch Rustic Elegance for a Hill Country Wedding Weekend

By Dana Kent Maass

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Road Trip

W

ith engagements and weddings, after “Yes,” the next biggest questions are: “When, where and how?”

you and your dearly beloved, from the moment you enter the gates of the property until you say your farewells.

If you feel drawn to the Texas Hill Country and the idea of sharing a few days with your closest loved ones while tucked away at a private venue, then consider Rockin' B Ranch.

Complete with comfortable lodging for up to 24 guests, a gorgeous creekside backdrop for outdoor vows, and a rustically elegant event barn holding up to 200, Rockin’ B provides the ideal location for nuptials of every size. Situated between the charming towns of Boerne and Bandera, the ranch location also offers plenty of nearby lodging options. And guests can easily work in fun side trips to Fredericksburg, Austin and San Antonio.

Available for exclusive use, Rockin’ B allows couples and families to customize a unique weekend wedding. No sharing of cramped space, no time restrictions, 55 acres in Pipe Creek, Texas belong to

(Continued on page 82)

Photos: (top left, clockwise) Decorated with bouquets, Spanish moss and eucalyptus, richly finished solid wood tables and chairs are included with wedding packages at Rockin' B Ranch. Florals by The Organic Design. // Weddings at Rockin' B Ranch include the use of these gorgeous wooden doors, for a sweet entrance at an outdoor ceremony. This little ring bearer is holding a custom sign by Malerie Weber of Lazy Creek Designs. // A simple buttercream cake on a pretty milk glass stand, surrounded by colorful Texas-sized cupcakes easily serve a crowd at the family-friendly Rockin’ B Ranch. Cakes by Niki Edwards, stand by Cru Vintage Rentals. // The radiant bride. Bouquet by The Organic Design. // All photography courtesy Capture Your Bliss.

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TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Road Trip

capture your bliss

(Continued from page 80)

Accommodating up to 200 guests, the barn at Rockin' B Ranch has been converted into a stunning event venue. As the central location for your weekend wedding at the ranch, the sides of the building can be open or closed, depending on the weather.

Engagement to Wedding: Stunning Photo Shoots

BBQ with side dishes, including a mac and cheese bar, for the big celebration. Having one caterer and one venue to serve both evenings of the weekend certainly simplifies the process.

Wedding packages include access to the ranch for engagement photos.

During this time, the couple can get to know their photographer, who will have the opportunity to preview the wedding venue. Green pastures, lighted trees, romantic swings, rolling hills, horses and Hill Country sunsets are just a few of the natural backdrops.

Bartenders4You provides a one-stop shop for bar service. Allowing you to bring your own beverages or providing drinks, Bartenders4You gives welcome flexibility. With a built-in bar at the reception barn, the space is ready for quick set-up and service.

Lodging for His, Hers and Ours With four unique and distinctive homes, on-site lodging is one of the most attractive features of a wedding package at Rockin’ B. From the Love Shack, which is made for two, to the other three homes sleeping six to eight guests each, the ranch comfortably accommodates nearest and dearest. With Hill Country views, jacuzzis, fire pits, and even a full-size pool at the Summit House, guests find entertainment and relaxation behind every door. The Creekside Home, also known as the Barndominium, is located directly above the event barn and tailor-made for the bridal squad to get ready together.

Eat, Drink and Be Married Hosting your wedding at Rockin’ B means having a choice of vendors.

While these businesses must be approved by the venue, you are able to interview individual service providers or choose a Rockin’ B-approved event coordinator to orchestrate your event and ease the stress of planning.

A family-owned company from Boerne, Riverside Catering, serves mouth-watering Tex-Mex-style grilled fajitas and savory smoked

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Choose to use the ranch’s outdoor kitchen and brick oven on the day of the wedding for an intimate pizza brunch, catered by Z's Wood Fired Pizza of Boerne. Bringing all the supplies, Z’s can prepare and serve overnight ranch guests, while a live musician performs in the background.

What a perfect way to relax and dine together before the main event.

Included in wedding packages, breakfast can be ordered and delivered from The Dienger Trading Company in Boerne. It’s such a sweet way to say goodbye to departing guests the morning after.

Going local definitely has its advantages. Cake baker and designer Niki Edwards, who operates her business within minutes of the ranch, has cakes freshly decorated on-site before your event. She creates gorgeous jumbo buttercream cupcakes in your wedding colors, plus a smaller cake on a vintage stand—-just the right size for the bride and groom to share. No slicing needed for the easily-served jumbo cupcakes, sure to be a big hit with every guest.

Decor & More Hosting an outdoor ceremony on the beautiful grounds includes the use of wine barrels, white ceremony chairs, a wooden wedding arch, hand-crafted portable doors for a unique entrance, and more.

The Organic Design of San Antonio provides bright and colorful

TEXAS LIFESTYLE | Road Trip

florals. Talented designer Crystal Rasmussen seamlessly transfers all floral arrangements from the ceremony to the reception site.

Bonus: The custom-made richly stained wooden tables require no linen.

Tip: Weather can change quickly, so there’s comfort in knowing the ceremony could be moved to Rockin’ B’s covered reception area if rain had threatened.

Cru Vintage Rentals of Boerne provides the perfect accents for every bride’s favorite style of decor, ensures the place settings are perfectly arranged to coordinate with all decor, while also providing elegant vintage furniture for lounge areas. Working closely with Cru Vintage is Malarie Weber of Lazy Creek Designs. Custom-designed welcome signs, ring bearer signs, menus and seating charts carry the couple’s theme and wedding colors throughout the event space.

Music & Memories Hire a band or a DJ to dance the night away, but keep in mind you will need portable audio equipment for an outdoor ceremony. DJ Steph of San Antonio has all the equipment to handle the job, from vows to party time, and works with you to create a custom playlist. Live musicians from Wood Vibrations of Round Rock provide a string quartet in the background throughout the service.

keep everyone on schedule and smiling at the same time. Kristen Pack of Capture Your Bliss in San Antonio has a gift for being in all the right places. Creatively using different types of light, recognizing key moments, and convincing tired children to laugh and smile are only a few of her talents.

Coordinator Required & Recommended Rockin’ B requires the use of a wedding coordinator for at least the month preceding your scheduled event. This not only ensures smooth coordination of vendors but also provides a key point person.

Partner with Blume Haus of Boerne to keep everyone organized and relaxed, allowing you to devote your time and energy to one another and guests.

Without a doubt, Rockin’ B Ranch provides just the setting for spending precious time with your nearest and dearest for a wedding weekend to remember.

When not hosting weddings, Rockin’ B rents out their individual houses for overnight getaways. When you feel that tug on your heart-strings, you and your true love or your closest friends can escape to this gem as a reminder of where your life’s journey began.

Working very closely with the DJ on timeline and flow of events is your photographer. This is someone who must be trusted to

Wedding Vendor List Venue: Rockin’ B Ranch | Wedding coordinator: Blume Haus | Photographer: Kristen Pack, Capture Your Bliss Florals: The Organic Design | Photo Booth: 5050 Photo Booth | String quartet: Wood Vibrations | DJ: DJ Steph Place settings & furniture: Cru Vintage Rentals | Signage: Lazy Creek Designs | Caterer: Riverside Catering Brick oven pizza brunch: Z’s Wood Fired Pizza | Bar service: Bartenders4You | Cakes: Niki Edwards Transportation: Chauffeurs For You | Bridesmaids’ dresses: Azazie | Wedding dress: David’s Bridal of Austin Men’s attire: Men’s Wearhouse

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