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2021 Travel Trends for American Travelers

by ContributedPost March 2, 2021
written by ContributedPost

Vacations and traveling were largely put on hold for many Americans in 2020 as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic. With 2020 now in the rear view mirror, many American travelers are optimistic about resuming traveling this year as local COVID numbers drop and vaccine rollouts expand.

But will the travel industry fully rebound to pre-pandemic levels in 2021?

To try and find out, IPX 1031 recently surveyed 2,020 Americans to learn more about their optimism for traveling this year as well as their travel plans, budgets, accommodations, and their willingness to fly among other topics. Let us take a deeper dive into the results of their survey.

2021 Travel Outlook

When asked about their optimism for traveling in 2021, 48% of respondents said yes, they were optimistic about being able to travel in 2021. Another 25% said they were somewhat optimistic about traveling in 2021 and only 27% said they were not optimistic about traveling this year.

Survey respondents were also asked if travel would ever return to normal without restrictions. 45% of respondents said they were optimistic about a pre-pandemic level of normalcy for traveling in 2021.

2021 Vacation Plans

A majority of Americans report having plans to travel in 2021, however many are choosing to wait to travel until they after they receive their COVID-19 vaccine. More than half of those surveyed (58%) say they currently have plans to travel in 2021. 31% said they were not sure about their travel plans at this time and only 11% said they had no plans to travel in 2021. Of those who already have plans to travel this year, one-third of those say they are planning to travel as early as spring break. Another third of travelers said they plan to vacation by the summer.

Of those who are still wary about traveling in 2021, these are the top reasons they gave for not wanting to pack their bags and travel this year:

  1. I do not feel safe traveling yet, due to the COVID-19 pandemic (80%)
  2. I do not currently have the budget to travel (44%)
  3. I do not want to travel because of dining/entertainment restrictions in place due to COVID-19 (22%)
  4. I do not want to travel because of travel/flying restrictions due to COVID-19 (18%)
  5. I cannot take the time of off work to travel (9%)

2021 Vacation budgets

They survey next asked American travelers whether or not they could currently afford to take a vacation. 70% of those surveyed said they can afford to travel and vacation at the time of the survey with an average travel budget of $2,470. Over a third of those surveyed said they would use a future round of stimulus checks on a vacation if one were to come from the federal government.

2021 Vacation length

There are many Americans who were unable to travel in 2020, and as a result are eager to travel as soon as they feel it is safe to do so. 29% of those surveyed said they plan to take a longer vacation in 2021 to make up for a lack of vacation in 2020. 43% said their vacation will be about the same as compared to previous years and 28% say they will take a shorter vacation this year.

COVID-19 is still a contributing factor that may threaten to cut vacations time short this year. Safety while traveling remains a top concern for those willing to travel this year. 73% of those surveyed reported being concerned that they will have to cancel or re-book a trip due to a spike in COVID-19 cases. 62% said they will only travel to locations with a low number of COVID-19 cases.

Vacation Homes and Accommodations

Accommodations for travelers looked a bit different during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many travelers opting to stay away from busy hotels and instead opting for vacation rentals and even secluded camping destinations for some.

Listed below are the most preferred accommodations for American travelers in 2021:

  1. Hotel (28%)
  2. Staying with family (21%)
  3. Short-term rentals like an Airbnb/VBRO (17%)
  4. Vacation home or timeshare (10%)
  5. Staying at home/staycation (9%)
  6. Camping (7%)
  7. Other (8%)

During the past year vacation home or timeshares have become a preferred way for travelers to vacation with 80% of those surveyed reporting having stayed at a vacation home or timeshare at some point during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Traveling by plane in 2021

The airline industry has been one of the most heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic with many travelers choosing not to travel by plane. The survey found that only 25% of respondents reported flying on a plane for personal travel or business in 2020.

However many Americans are more optimistic about plane travel this year and beyond. 48% of those surveyed said they feel that airline travel will be safe again in 2021. 72% said they will feel safer flying after receiving their COVID-19 vaccination. In 2022, 80% of those surveyed said they will feel safe flying again.

For many Americans, they simply will not feel safe traveling until after they receive their COVID-19 vaccination. 54% of those surveyed said they just do not feel safe traveling until they have been vaccinated.

While optimism is high for travel this year, there is also a sense of reservation from some about waiting until it is completely safe to do so. Travel plans have the potential to continue to be be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and how the case load looks in America. Only time will tell if travel begins to resume to pre-pandemic levels in 2021.

 

March 2, 2021 0 comment
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Benefits of Relocating To a Tropical Climate

by Mallory Knee February 18, 2021
written by Mallory Knee

We’ve all done it—stood in the middle of cold weather and asked ourselves, “Why do I live here?” It’s time to take a leap and relocate to a warmer climate!

With not much to do as of late, the idea of vacationing on a beach is tempting. But what if you could live year-round in paradise? There are many reasons to move to an area with consistently higher temperatures, more reliable appearances from the sun, and a touch of humidity. Weighing the benefits of relocating to a tropical climate will surely light a fire under you when it comes to making decisions regarding such a lifestyle change.

Health Benefits

There are quite a few health benefits that come with moving to an area with warm weather and constant sunshine. With the proper protection, the sun offers several aids that will make you feel better mentally and physically.

  • More Opportunities for Exercise: With tropical weather, you don’t have several months where it’s too cold to be outside. Therefore, you can be active outside all year, and you’ll have sandy beaches at your disposal, which can add resistance to your workout routines.
  • Fresh Food Options: Tropical locals often offer an array of fresh fruit as well as recently caught seafood. As such, there is not as much of a need to eat processed foods. You’ll be sure to reap the great health benefits of eating organically.
  • Boosted Immunity: Sunshine gives your body a boost of vitamin D, and fresh air increases your immunity. Blue light cells from the sun’s rays absorbed through the skin help circulate white blood cells as well, keeping you healthier by defending against illness.
  • Stronger Bones and Eyes: Vitamin D helps increase the absorption of calcium to strengthen bones. The bright outdoors helps develop a proper distance between the lens and retina in the eyes and decreases the strain that comes from dim light, causing nearsightedness.
  • Relief from Depression: Regular exposure to sunlight triggers the production of serotonin, which makes your mood happier. Similarly, regular exercise (especially in the sun) releases endorphins, having comparable attitude boosting effects.
  • Improves Sleep: Melatonin is a sleep-inducing hormone that is released more at night if your daytime is spent in the sunshine. Sun exposure causes less production of melatonin during the day, saving this hormone for bedtime.

Up and Coming Areas

There is clearly a myriad of both mental and physical benefits to moving to a tropical climate. Additionally, although many people consider them vacation destinations, many tropical havens are becoming popular places to reside full time.

Investing in beach property can give you a great place to live as well as exciting opportunities to make money on the investment later; by waiting for the property to grow in demand to sell or even renting it out, your beach property will be worth it in the long run. Accumulating tropical property in areas that have a lot to offer visitors is smart investing.

Understanding the various benefits of relocating to a tropical climate will help you decide on your new home destination in no time. With everything going on right now, there’s no better time to shake things up.

 

February 18, 2021 0 comment
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3 Tips for Making Your Home a Sought-After Airbnb

by ContributedPost February 17, 2021
written by ContributedPost

As the country begins to regain some sense of normalcy, people are starting to feel comfortable enough to return to some of their beloved pre-COVID activities. One of which includes travel. While travel never totally disappeared, some were a bit more reluctant about where they went and where they stayed. As the owner of an Airbnb, it’s likely you’ve faced some challenges over the past year. Now that things are reopening and the travel bug is biting people left and right, it’s crucial you get your home ready to become a sought-after Airbnb.

From the safest to the cleanest and everything in between, we’re sharing some tips on how you can achieve Super Host status and make your home a destination guests will want to visit again and again. 

Safety First

One of, if not the most important ways to ensure guests want to stay at your Airbnb is to provide a safe environment. If people feel unsafe, they are not likely to return or leave a good review, so be sure to make safety a top priority. There are various ways to put your guest’s mind at ease while they are staying in your residence. To begin with, check the property for any hazards such as broken glass, uneven flooring, sharp corners, ect. You’ll want to take care of these issues before you advertise to any guests, especially since you’ll be posting photos of the space and first impressions are everything.

After you’ve made any necessary repairs, go through the space room by room and check all smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers. It’s imperative that all these items are functioning properly in order to keep your guests safe, and help prevent property damage should a fire break out. Once you’ve checked the detectors, you’ll want to test them out to confirm they are working properly.

Another safety item to check off your list is creating an emergency contact list. Sure, everyone knows to dial 911 in an emergent situation, but if the toilet is clogged or the power goes out, it’s important your guests have access to your contact information so they can get a hold of you quickly. Leave a list of contact numbers in a visible place such as a cork board or on the refrigerator. If your guests feel comfortable contacting you, they’re likely to spread the positive word in their review.

Once you’ve done your part to make sure the residence is safe, you can spend some time focusing on the curb appeal of the home. Remember, first impressions are everything so you’ll want to give some TLC to the exterior as well. For some of my favorite tips on improving the outside of your home, check out this article on the blog.

Comfort Counts

Aside from feeling safe, you want to make sure you provide your guests with the amenities necessary to create a comfortable atmosphere. This involves your ability to anticipate your guests needs. Keep an extra set of sheets and towels in the linen closet or provide some basic toiletries in case a guest runs out or forgets to pack their toothbrush or body wash. These small touches will help your guests feel at home while simultaneously improving your ratings.

Once you’ve stocked some basic amenities, it’s time to move on to the other spaces throughout the unit. You’ll want the furniture in common areas to be thoroughly cleaned and without rips or tears. Be sure the beds in each room are comfortable and there are plenty of pillows and blankets available. You want your guests to sleep soundly, after all, they are on vacation! Feel free to include other items such as fans, night lights, a universal phone charging station and anything else you can think of to add an extra layer of comfort to their stay. 

Personal Touches

If you really want to go the extra mile to make your guests feel at home, you can compile a list of local bars, restaurants and other attractions in the area. Sure, your guests can easily Google what to do in your area, but advice from a local on these types of things trumps any search engine results. Before creating the list, you’d of course want to consider your audience. If you’re hosting a group of people celebrating a bachelorette party, you can include names of local restaurants, clubs, and even spas.

If your guests are on a family getaway with youngsters in tow, highlight some kid-friendly places to grab a bite as well as any theme parks or zoos in the area. On your list you should also include some establishments that offer take out, as well as an online delivery service that carries snacks, drinks and other essentials, just in case your guests feel like having a Netflix and chill night (cue the comfy couches). The convenience factor can be exactly what they’re looking for and this type of personal touch is sure to make your space more sought after than the other Airbnbs in your area.    

Although the past year has been tough, as an Airbnb owner, it’s time to get excited about people integrating travel back into their lives. Combining the tips above with other things you’re already doing to prepare your home for guests will aid in boosting your ratings and have people returning to your residence again and again.  

February 17, 2021 0 comment
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4 Ways Travel Will Change in the Future

by ContributedPost February 15, 2021
written by ContributedPost

Travel definitely took a big-time hit in 2020, thanks to the pandemic, with spending down a whopping 42% from 2019. 

Some U.S. destinations were more severely affected than others. As you might expect, popular vacation state Hawaii suffered the biggest dropoff in its travel economy, 60% year over year.  

So what does 2021 have in store? Has travel hit bottom, and what will the recovery look like? What new opportunities will it present to the would-be traveler who’s itching to get out of the house after a year of lockdowns and quarantines? 

We still don’t know when travel restrictions will be lifted, to what extent, and in which regions, so plenty of things are still in flux. It’s likely that any transformation “back to normal” will be gradual, and many of the adjustments we’ve already made will continue to apply. In any case, we can look at the trends so far and get an idea of what to expect in 2021 and beyond. 

Road trip

Road trip

Road trips will remain a smart option

After dropping by 72% in April, road travel improved to 20% of previous levels in the summer. By Labor Day, road trip frequency had risen to just a 5% downturn from the previous year and held at 6% lower during the winter holiday season, according to the Arrivalist Trend Tracker.

By contrast, air travel was down significantly —and stayed down — with TSA screenings dropping 96% in April and remaining low at 70% of original numbers over the summer. 

These statistics indicate that travelers were aware of CDC guidelines cautioning the use of public planes, trains, buses, and passing through transportation hubs like airports would likely increase the risk of contracting COVID-19. These trends may well continue through 2021, with Dr. Anthony Fauci suggesting a return to “normality” is possible by the end of the year.

Even so, the rate of vaccination and effectiveness of vaccines against emerging virus variants makes any timeline uncertain. Road trips offer the advantage of built-in social distancing within your own car or RV. The trends could continue for some time beyond the end of the pandemic, as accommodations shift and travelers rediscover how much fun highway travel can be. 

Preparation will continue to keep us safer

RV Camper Boondocking

RV Camper Boondocking

Throughout the pandemic, people have learned to travel prepared, with supplies of masks, gloves, disinfectant wipes, and hand sanitizer on board at all times, among other precautions.

  • We’ve made it a habit to wipe down gas pumps and keypads before using them, and to sanitize our hands afterward.
  • We stock up on supplies so we don’t have to stop as often. 
  • We wear masks whenever we enter an establishment (and now we’ve learned that wearing two masks can make us even safer).

We’ve learned to prepare in other ways, too. Many travelers have begun to collect the proper paperwork to have handy when traveling, in case of medical needs or another emergency, such as a car accident. And soon there may be new paperwork to add to the mix, in the form of potential “vaccine passports.”

And logistical preparations will always endure. RVers already knew how to be prepared, bringing along portable stoves and fire pits, pots and pans, bedding, portable Wi-Fi, and a backup power source. 

Flexibility is likely to endure 

The pandemic has forced businesses to become more flexible to ease the concerns of potential customers wary of traveling. Even once the health crisis eases, consumers may demand many of these steps continue. (After all, they help protect people from the flu and other respiratory viruses, as well.) Some of the changes that may endure include:

  • More “touchless” options for hotel and airport check-ins.
  • A greater emphasis on cleanliness and hygiene at restaurants and inns.
  • Continued flexible cancellation policies at hotels and motels.

Scenic America will still be a draw  

Stream and mountain scenery

Stream and mountain scenery

Thanks to the pandemic, many travelers have steered clear of traditional destinations such as amusement parks and crowded beaches. Now that many have been exposed to the wonders of secluded destinations and the open road, its allure is likely to continue.

And it’s likely we won’t just visit the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls. We’ll look for more hidden gems, such as the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs; the Avenue of the Giants in California’s redwood forest, the Tufas of Mono Lake, and the nearby ghost town of Bodie; and Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin. We’ll likely seek out isolated campgrounds where we can sleep under a million stars we can actually see. 

Far from closing down, our options and itineraries have expanded, opening up new possibilities — the opposite of what you’d expect during a pandemic, which by its very nature imposes limitations on travel and other activities. But if we open our imaginations and turn our expectations inside out, we might wind up enjoying our vacations more than we ever expected. 

We can expect more of that in the years ahead.

This post was authored by By Molly Barnes, Digital Nomad Life

February 15, 2021 0 comment
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5 Best Destinations for Hearing Impaired Travelers

by ContributedPost February 12, 2021
written by ContributedPost

When it comes to traveling and seeing the world, those who have a hidden disability like a hearing impairment may be more reluctant than others to go jet setting. However, over recent years, there has been a stark increase in the number of tourism destinations and operators who are becoming more aware of those who have difficulty hearing or who cannot hear anything at all.

You should never let your hearing impairment stop you from getting the most out of life and seeing the sights. To give you confidence that you are well catered for, here are five of the best destinations you can travel to.

Paris

Eiffel Tower in Paris

Eiffel Tower in Paris

For those who are after a romantic getaway with their partner, Paris serves as one of the top destinations for hearing-impaired travelers. No matter where you head to in the capital, there is an abundance of deaf-friendly hotels that will cater to your needs. Whether you take a trip up the Eiffel Tower or pay a visit to the Louvre Museum, there are all sorts of things you can do in the city of love that caters for all budgets. And if you want to venture further than Paris, there are unique, week-long excursions you can embark on which are specifically created by those from the hearing-impaired community.

New York City

The Statue of Liberty under the blue sky background, Lower Manhattan, New York City,

The Statue of Liberty under the blue sky background, Lower Manhattan, New York City,

Known as the city that never sleeps, New York City is one of the most popular destinations to visit for hearing-impaired travelers. Once you land in the Big Apple, there is so much to see and do, such as heading to Times Square, taking a stroll through Central Park, or even heading to Broadway where there is a deaf theatre that showcases beautifully put together performances filled with sign language and visual movements. Whether you head to NYC for a city break or longer, you’re sure to have a trip you’ll never forget.

Florida

Come to Florida for fun!

Come to Florida for fun!

When we think of Florida, Disney is the first thing that tends to spring to mind. If you’re a lover of Mickey Mouse and rollercoasters, Walt Disney World is a great holiday hotspot that caters for those with hearing impairments. To get the most out of your experience, there are specialist tour guides who are fluent in sign language. If you have limited hearing, you can be confident that your needs are met at Disney World. Remember to get insured for your next trip so you’re fully covered for your Florida adventure. Look into companies like Staysure, who provide medical travel insurance that will even cover you for COVID-19. They have provided thousands of hearing-impaired travelers with insurance that gives that extra peace of mind.

Rome

Colosseum in Rome

Colosseum in Rome

Italy is most famous for its amazing cuisine, vast cultural heritage, and some of the most famous structures on the planet. If you’re a lover of history, arts, and culture, you must take a trip to Rome. And if you’re worried about your hearing impairment, there are excursions and guided tours you can embark on both in Rome and across the country, helping you to reap the full benefits from your trip.

Deaf-Friendly Cruises

For those who love to travel by sea, there are deaf-friendly cruises you may wish to embark on. All the major cruise liners cater to hearing-impaired travelers, so whether you want to head to the Caribbean or Mexico is more your thing, you can relax knowing that there are sign language-certified staff who will use different communication methods to make your trip a once in a lifetime experience.

Whether you like the idea of taking a trip to the city of love, heading to the Big Apple, or you enjoy being on the water, there are tons of destinations that are perfect for hearing-impaired travelers.

February 12, 2021 0 comment
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11 travel ideas for the fitness enthusiast

by ContributedPost January 18, 2021
written by ContributedPost

While 2020 wasn’t really the best year for traveling, everyone’s hoping that 2021 will be better. If you’re already looking for some fun and interesting locations for your next vacation, make sure to think of your interests and find a location that will inspire you and fill your batteries. If you’re a true fitness enthusiast, you should look for a place that will keep you calm and refreshed and that will also make it possible for you to practice fitness and exercise whenever you feel like it. Here are some of the best places for this all around the world.

Carillon Miami Wellness Resort, Florida

One of the first places that represent a true paradise on earth for any fitness enthusiast is the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort. Located in Miami’s North Beach, this resort is a true gem. With a 70,000 square foot spa, you’ll have the time of your life if you decide to travel there. You could indulge in some of the many pleasures this largest spa facility on the East Coast has to offer – sensory rain showers, a crystal steam room, a foot spa, Finnish sauna, and even an igloo – the only one in Miami.

You can also pick any type of treatment you’d like. From traditional massages to beauty therapies, this resort simply has it all. You could also go for salt float therapy, cryoskin toning, acupuncture, or IV Therapy. If you’re in the mood for some outdoor activities, you’ll be happy to hear that you could go rock climbing. For some adrenaline rush, you could also do boxing, HIIT, dance, and spinning, or practice some yoga to stay mindful.

Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Switzerland

The next pretty cool location on this list is the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz in Switzerland. This multi-hotel health resort is located just one hour outside Zurich. It is also near Switzerland’s border to Austria which means that, if you go there, you could use your vacation to visit one more country during your stay. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be more than happy when you see that the resort is next to the thermal waters of the Tamina Gorge.

Tamina Therme spa will amaze you with its offers of treatments and you won’t wonder at all why this resort calls itself the “Europe’s Leading Well-Being and Medical Health Resort”. You could spend your time in this impressive spa center, but you could also visit the Medical Health Center, the Swiss Olympic Medical Center, a rehabilitation clinic, and even a Heidi-themed family spa, which will be the best idea if you’re travelling with kids. Make sure to also check out the casino (without children though), the two golf courses, a sculpture garden, and go hiking or wine tasting as well.

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort

Have you ever been to the Maldives? If not, why not use the opportunity and go there for your next vacation? The InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort could be the right place for you if you’d like to learn more about nature and activate all of your senses. This island is so rich in marine life that you’ll constantly feel amazed by it. The sand sharks and rainbow-colored fish, visible even without snorkels, will leave you speechless!

If you like water, you’ll definitely enjoy it in one of the six serene over-water villas at the spa. There is also a yoga pavilion that you shouldn’t miss. If you want a really unique experience, you should definitely go to a complimentary daily tea service. A sommelier will meet you there and lead you through the tasting. If you’re more in the mood for cocktails, don’t worry – evening digestives are also included in the package. All in all, you’ll be so drunk from the surroundings, the calmness, and the serenity that any period of time won’t be enough for your stay.

ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort and Spa, Japan

Japan is truly a magical place. If you’ve never been before, make sure to make a reservation for the ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort and Spa. The spa resort was recently opened and it is located in Japan’s Oita Prefecture. There’s hardly a more popular hot spring area in Japan than this one. During your visit, you should make sure to go to the local spa inspired by traditional medicine where you’ll feed both your body and soul.

All of the treatments in the HARNN’s Spa are based on natural ingredients which can already tell you that this place will be amazing. With 79 guest rooms and 10 suites, the resort is also rich in bamboo-decorated features. Not only that, but you’ll also see a lot of wood- and marble-decorated features. You’re bound to find your piece of heaven in some of the five treatment rooms, two outdoor onsens, a garden, and even an open-air terrace baths from which you’ll be able to enjoy the mountain or bay views.

Valley Rock Inn, New York

If you want to visit America, for instance, why not go to New York? Even though New York is famous for its wild and never-stopping energy, only an hour from this beautiful city, a paradise is located. In the Lower Hudson Valley, there is a Valley Rock Inn and Mountain Club which makes a great choice for any vacation, especially one for fitness lovers. With plenty of activities you can choose from, you won’t experience a single boring day while you stay there.

If you’d like to move a lot around and spend time producing adrenalin, this is the destination for you. Don’t forget to bring your favorite protein powder and get ready to have the time of your life. For a true adrenalin rush, make sure to check out the ridgeline climbs, where you could get a chance to go at 2,000 feet high on 7 Hills Trail. You could also enjoy some trail run hikes or go biking or kayaking. Depending on your hobbies and interests, make sure to also check out the 75-foot pool, the fitness center, spin room, or the yoga studio.

Naia Resort & Spa, Placencia, Belize

The next amazing destination on the list is the Naia Resort and Spa. This gorgeous resort is located in the Caribbean Sea on Belize’s southern coast. This resort will provide you with a one-of-a-kind experience and you’ll only look forward to coming back as soon as you leave it. You could choose your accommodation however you like since Naia offers some pretty cool stand-alone villas which can be anything from studios to two-bedrooms. The best thing is that they all have beachfront access.

While you’re there, don’t forget to check out some of the endless activities this paradise on earth has to offer. For instance, you could go to some on-site fitness classes and work on your mind and body while also making new friends. On the other hand, you could pay a visit to a private yoga lawn or enjoy a long walk on the beach. Kayaking, snorkeling, and paddle-boarding are just some of the other activities you could take part in while in Belize. With the help of the resort staff, you can also go for some off-site activities. For instance, you could go river tubing or you could see the local Scarlet Macaws.

Casali di Casole, Italy

There is hardly a more interesting country than Italy. With its impressive history, eye-catching landscapes, delicious food, and amicable people, Italy is simply the perfect destination for anyone. For a fitness enthusiast, the Casali di Casole is the right place in Italy. This destination is located on a Tuscan hilltop and it spreads over 4,200 acres. The estate dates back to the 10th century. It’s a perfect space for any history lover as well. Rural Italy is best shown through this location.

You could rent a villa or a farmhouse. Even though it doesn’t sound as good, you should know that the farmhouses are elegant as well. This is the right location for your next vacation if you like spending time outside and getting to know the country life as well. While listening to the amazing Italian language and maybe learning a word or two, you could go hiking or horseback riding. You could also visit the local farms, spot wildlife for a while, and then look forward to dining a mouth-watering dish once you get back to your accommodation.

Seven Senses Spain

For any fitness lover that also happens to love the Spanish language and spirituality, Seven Senses in Spain is the perfect travel idea. This beautiful retreat in Mallorca will take you on a journey through the seven chakras. The ideal stay here is 7 days which is exactly the time needed for you to refresh and recover from anything and become a brand new person. Your visit to Seven Senses will be so enriching that you’ll feel better than ever and all that due to many multi-dimensional activations that you’ll get an opportunity to go through.

For instance, you’ll indulge in activities such as breath-work, but you’ll also do some sound journey to holistic health workshops. Physical movement will also be a pretty important part of the whole experience. Each day should be focused on a single chakra. Opening the chakras will be pretty beneficial and you’ll enjoy the process fully. By understanding, clearing, and optimizing each chakra at a time, you’ll reach your goal before even noticing. You’ll also get the chance to get to know Spain and its wonderful people!

The Little French Retreat, Himalayas

Speaking of spirituality, the Himalayas are next on this amazing list of destinations all around the world. The Himalayas are really one of the places you shouldn’t miss out to see. If you haven’t already traveled there, you should definitely do so as soon as an opportunity pops up. Spending two weeks in this charming place could be the best way to spend a vacation.

This 14-day escapade to the Himalayas could be a true gift. Uttarakhand is one of the most spiritually-charged places in the world and this travel could enrich you in many ways. The Little French Retreat is the perfect resort since it also allows you to take part in the silent walks over Delhi and Almora. You could also spend your days visiting ancient temples or in a cooking workshop. Even an Ayurvedic treatment could be the activity of your choice.

Amrit Ocean Resort, Florida

Amrit Ocean Resort is another interesting place you could visit in 2021. This gorgeous resort is located on Singer Island in Florida. This a newly-opened resort fully focused on wellness, which makes it the perfect vacation destination for a fitness enthusiast. The resort is pretty special because it has partnered with the Himalayan Institute and that made it possible to combine all sorts of different experiences.

For instance, the resort combines some of the Eastern traditions such as energy healing and mindfulness with modern and luxury amenities. While bringing you the best of both worlds, the resort will make you feel like you really are in heaven. You could get involved in some elaborate Aayush hydrothermal healing experience as well while you’re there. You could go for vitamin IV therapy, osteopaths, meditation classes, acupuncture, and many other activities as well.

Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, Mexico

Finally, Mexico is also a place worth visiting. The Waldorf Astoria Spa will make you feel like you were born to enjoy life. Paying a visit to this spa is a perfect way for you to restore your mind, body, and spirit.

You’ll be able to practice yoga whenever you feel like it and you could also get involved in a number of different activities. Don’t forget to check out the Janzu water therapy as well while in Mexico. The magic stone massages will also make you feel like you were born again, so make sure to check them out as well.

Conclusion

If you are a true fitness enthusiast, you’ll find any of these destinations heaven-like. So, wait no more and make reservations for your favorites from the list!

 

The blog post was authored by:

Patrick Adam

Freelance writer and blogger. Sydney, Australia

https://www.clippings.me/patrickadams

 

January 18, 2021 0 comment
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Introducing Selling Orlando TV Show

by Karen LeBlanc December 8, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

Calling on all Orlando house hunters! Check out the pilot episode of Selling Orlando, a new reality show that I wrote and helped produced. If you are looking to make the move to sunny Orlando, this show is a must-see for an insider’s look at Central Florida’s housing market and lifestyle.

 

 

 

December 8, 2020 0 comment
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Selfie Generation: Has the Travelling Purpose Changed?

by ContributedPost December 3, 2020
written by ContributedPost

Travel and photography go hand in hand and have done so for as long as cameras have been around. Technology has certainly evolved since the time of the tripod stand and clunky apparatus. 

We carry in our pockets the means to snap a pic anytime and anywhere, and we’re only waiting for the right opportunity. It’s definitely affected the purpose behind our travels, and below, we find out how.

What’s the Hype?

It seems that many people are traveling so that they can utilize the trip for social media. It’s no longer deciding where to go on holiday for fun, but rather where to go that subscribers will like. 

Snapping pics for memories to look at when we’re old has turned into taking photos for monetary compensation through social media. If you’re an influencer, you should read this blog article from Facetune to get some tips for your next destination.

The Effect on Travel Providers

For the hospitality industry, this rising trend requires a degree of technological and cultural change. The sector needs to embrace modern communication methods favored by its techno-savvy clientele. 

It also needs to help customers by offering seamless access to social media and “curating” their trip. Hotels have to work on policies to negate the demands that some big influencers have for online endorsements. 

These could take the form of upgrades, cash refunds, discounts, reduced duty-free prices, and VIP services. If the provider chooses not to indulge these often greedy travelers, they risk a bad review on the influencers’ platforms.

Themed Photos and Videos

The term selfie is a picture of oneself taken by oneself. Before technology advanced, you’d have to have a person take a picture, usually with a camera. When traveling, you aren’t only limited to photos; you can also film yourself. After recording an activity, you can share it with your followers on social media.

Many people who use travel primarily to post evidence on various platforms use themes for their selfies in exotic places. They’re likely to dress up and style themselves in anticipation of taking a snapshot instead of just enjoying their trip.

The Future of Travel

The industry is looking towards future travel trends and has segmented travelers into new groups. 

  • Simplicity searchers are generally families or older people who use agents to help them arrange the trip.
  • Cultural purists are people seeking immersive travel.
  • Ethical travelers are usually a younger market for whom the environmental concerns are most important.
  • Obligation meeters are traveling not necessarily for a holiday but on business or to visit family.
  • Reward hunters favor luxury travel and are often singletons. These individuals would also go for sporting holidays.

The challenge is that some groups could be making choices based on whether the venue is attractive enough to share on social media. 

Not only that, but there’s a big need for the travel providers to stimulate their guest’s imaginations. Big-time influencers don’t only want to enjoy the foreign locales, but they want to find exciting and unusual adventures that’ll ensure them a wider audience. 

They expect a resort or hotel to arrange these sightseeing activities for them.

Travel Fatigue

With the focus of traveling changing so much, many people suffer from travel fatigue and no longer see the beauty of the destination for what it is. Instead, their only focus is on getting the perfect shot to satisfy their followers. 

They’ll often completely miss gorgeous scenery in an area filled with it as they can’t see how special it is because they’re looking at it through a lens.

Final Thoughts

Travelling has become a business for many social media addicts and wannabe influencers. It’s made planning a destination more about whether it can be monetized through the various photos and videos rather than for travel enjoyment. 

Providers have been drawn into the loop as they need to cater to various groups and toe the line if they don’t want a bad review from one of the big shot swayers. Tourists make an effort to ensure that the photos and videos are themed to match the exotic places they visit. 

The hospitality industry has already segmented various groups and is trying to meet each one’s needs. The regretful thing is that people will travel and miss most of the beauty around them as they search for the perfect shot.

This post was authored by Wendy Dessler 

 

December 3, 2020 0 comment
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Girl traveler in the mountains in boho clothes with a hat. Enjoys nature and travel. Local camping
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The Rise of Regenerative Travel

by Karen LeBlanc November 23, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

I recently attended the 2020 Global Wellness Summit as a member of the press. The event brought together experts from around the world to share their latest research and ideas about creating a healthier planet and culture.  The Summit stimulated important conversations about new mindsets, products, practices and trends as we enter 2021. In the area of travel, the pandemic has both stunted our wanderlust and stimulated new ways to explore the world. As travelers recalibrate their priorities and values, a new way to travel is emerging that is more self-aware. 

Boating in the sea travel nature

Boating in the sea travel nature

Wellness travel has been a buzzword for several years now, referring to self-care and self-improvement excursions such as spa vacations and retreats. Today, a seismic shift is underway as we embrace the idea that wellness is about connecting back to the earth and understanding the teachings we can get from the land.  

We are evolving into conscientious travelers, craving deeper connections and meaningful experiences while examining how our travel impacts a destination. This new mindset is giving rise to regenerative travel. 

Young woman with backpack from behind in the tropics

Young woman with backpack from behind in the tropics

More and more people are looking for vacations that align with their values. Regenerative travel builds on the concept of sustainable travel, taking it to a higher level. “Regenerative travel is about being green and doing less damage. Sustainable travel is reaching net neutral and regenerative travel is about making a place better. Travel used to be about discovery and interacting with culture. There is a shift to a slower, more considered way to travel and a rallying call for the travel industry to rethink its environmental impact,” says Amanda Ho, Co-Founder, Regenerative Travel, Hong Kong.

woman relax in wild nature forest

woman relax in wild nature forest

Amanda is the Co-Founder and Brand Director of Regenerative Travel, an online travel platform dedicated to connecting mindful travelers to inspiring content and values-aligned hotels (Regenerative Resorts) or curated itineraries. Playa Viva is a founding hotel on the platform and aims to create a positive impact and legacy for the community, taking into account the history of place and its role as a steward of the land. The property includes a bird-filled estuary and ancient ruins. “Playa Viva is about looking at the whole history of the area and going back to the elders to learn how the land has transformed. This small town surrounding the resort became a gateway to the property and rejuvenated the village,” says Ho.

The regenerative traveler is aware of travel’s impact on the environment and seeks experiences that adhere to their ethos and values. “You can make a positive impact on the world through travel. Regenerative travel is about integrating the local culture into the property, immersing travelers in time and place,” says Ho.  

Indigenous People Crafting Souvenirs For Sale

Indigenous People Crafting Souvenirs For Sale

The pandemic’s enforced social distancing is also bringing travel back to nature, the outdoors. New ways to vacation include “slow travel” that has people taking time to do mindful things and human-powered travel involving activities such as cycling, hiking, paddling, and walking. 

NOMINATED

NOMINATED

Regenerative Resorts is an independently owned collection of eco-luxury lodges and hotels that inspire transformative experiences and are dedicated to the highest levels of social and environmental impact. Through sharing individual best practices and, through collaboration, Regenerative Travel enables the collection to work together to achieve significant economies of scale, to build liquidity and legacy, and to make a deeper impact.

 

 

 

November 23, 2020 0 comment
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Home for the Holidays: Tips for Traveling Safely

by Mallory Knee November 19, 2020
written by Mallory Knee

Are you hoping to head home during the holiday season this year? Here are some top tips for traveling safely during the pandemic and taking the proper precautions.

Oh, there’s no place like home for the holidays—regardless of the global pandemic going on. Many Americans will not be willing to give up their usual holiday plans this coming season after the bleak and weary year we’ve had due to COVID-19. Setting aside popular opinions and the politics of the matter, the importance of safety for those who decide to celebrate the holidays with family and friends is apparent. Read on for how to be home for the holidays: tips for traveling safely.

Consider Where You’re Going

As most countries around the world are restricting Americans from entering their borders, we assume that you’re traveling within the U.S. As the number of reported COVID-19 cases fluctuates daily, keep your eye on the news for local, state, or regional guidelines and ordinances to follow. Know exactly where you’re planning to go, and consider if you should quarantine for the standard two weeks beforehand based on the location. There are certainly risks regardless, but you can reduce these risks with the proper precautions. Many major cities are still hotspots, and different areas of the country have seen recent flare-ups.

Communicate With Those You Will Be Seeing

Only so much contingency is tolerable at a time, especially during the already hectic holiday season. If you’re going home for the holidays, examine these tips for traveling safely. For the sake of those who you will see while you’re in town, make choices weeks beforehand to stay healthy and safe before you arrive for the holidays. People have varying levels of comfort during this time. There is heightened risk with more contact, so evaluate as a group what safety precautions everyone will practice both before and while you meet up, such as wearing masks. Some family members are at a higher risk, and if you traveled the distance to see them, you should go the distance to protect them.

Choose How You Should Travel Wisely

If you have your own car and are able to drive to your destination, then that is the best possible option for traveling during these times. If you don’t have a car, consider renting one. Otherwise, flying is the next best option, and then taking a bus or train should be a last resort. Trains and buses aren’t the safest choices due to the necessary proximity of passengers, so consider all other possibilities first for any pandemic-era travel. Research airlines, and if you can, search for emptier flights.

If you’re traveling outside of your own vehicle with other individuals, you should wear a mask at all times and practice proper social distancing. Yes, that’s six feet apart from others. Wash your hands in the airport or at the station, and keep cautious throughout your journey. When you arrive, consider exposure levels when deciding how you will reach your final destination. If you’re coming from the airport, consider the benefits of utilizing airport transportation services. A private car will most likely be the most sanitary and a wiser choice than ordering a ride through a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. As the holidays get closer, consider all your options with tact and care.

For more tips on traveling and road-tripping, check out this step-by-step guide.

November 19, 2020 0 comment
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Top 7 Scenic Mountain Ranges To Explore

by ContributedPost November 18, 2020
written by ContributedPost

Mountain ranges possess a unique scenic beauty that attracts people. People enjoy traveling to mountain ranges as it establishes a deeper connection with the inner self and serves as a transcendental spiritual experience for many. Whether you prefer spending some quality time with yourself amidst scenic mountains and glaciers or prefer hiking around the breathtaking trails with fellow adventure enthusiasts, mother nature offers something for everyone. So if you are craving a little adventure and need a spiritual escape from the regular hectic life, here are seven scenic mountains you shouldn’t miss. Many mountaineers have successfully climbed up to the summits of mountain ranges mentioned below.

Swiss Alps:

Undoubtedly, the Alps of Switzerland has to be the first one on the list. The scenic beauty of the Matterhorn summit, covered in snow and the Dammastock peaks make the Swiss Alps a must-visit for every mountain enthusiast. Its perfect pyramid shape mountains attract many hikers from all over the world. The snow-clad slopes of the alps serve as a ground for many adventure activities such as snowboarding and skiing. That’s not all, Switzerland is home to lush green valleys, clear lakes, and other scenic beauty as well. Traveling in the Bernina Express, a majestic rail route along the Bernia pass offers a breathtaking view.

The Himalayas:

The Himalayas are one of the breathtaking mountain ranges of Asia spread across India, Nepal, and Tibet. It offers one of the best scenic views of beautiful glaciers, mountain tops, and crystal clear lakes and rivers. However, the notable attraction of the Himalayas is the tallest mountain in the world, Mount Everest. With a height of 29,029 ft above the sea level, it is not only the tallest but also one of the most challenging mountains to climb. Several mountaineers have attempted to climb Mount Everest, and only a few succeeded in reaching the summit due to the extremely challenging climbing route.

Kirkjufell:

The Kirkjufell mountain of Iceland makes it to the list as it offers both tranquillity and adventure for mountain lovers. The mountain grasped several people’s attention when it served as a filming location for HBO’s famous series Game of Thrones (Season 6 and 7). The mountain is full of greenery across summer, and when the winter arrives, it turns into a milky white snowy mountain. It has one of the magnificent waterfalls of Iceland, the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall. Visit the mountain range during winters, and experience the magnificent northern lights, as it is the most ideal and perfect location to do so.

Mount Etna:

The next spectacular mountain featured on this list is Mt. Etna of the Catania province, Sicily, Italy. It is located on the coast of Sicily and is an active volcano with a height of 11,000 ft. While the mountain attracts hikers and tourists interested in witnessing one of the active craters of Europe during summer, and during winter, it makes way for many snowboarding activities. The mountain also offers a beautiful hiking trail along Etna Park, offering breathtaking views of ancient caves, lava flows, and lunar landscapes. The traces of black lava across the lush green pine forest is a sight to behold.

Andes Mountain ranges:

Andes mountain ranges are the largest continental mountain ranges in the world. It spreads along the western edge of South America covering Peru, Colombia. Bolivia, Ecuador, Chile, Argentina, and Venezuela. The place served as a citadel for the Incan people living in the country. It provides a window to ancient times, as one gets to view and experience several archaeological sites. A trip to this majestic place located on the Urubamba river valley lets people experience how life was a hundred years ago.

Southern Alps:

Here’s another mountain range located in New Zealand that offers spectacular views of picturesque mountains covered in snow. The highest mountain peak in the Southern Alps is the Aoraki/Mount Cook, situated in the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Activities like mountain walking, skiing, glacier viewing make it a must-visit spot in New Zealand. The park is accessible through State Highway 80 and has one of the best hiking trails. However, take the necessary precautions, such as making sure that your car has a roof rack cage to carry luggage and hiking gear to ensure maximum safety.

Patagonia:

Take a trip to Patagonia if you wish to spend some quality time with yourself or a loved one, away from the bustling city life. The place is full of scenic beauty with crystal clear lakes, beautiful snowy glaciers, and mountain peaks. Patagonia covers the southern region of the Andes Mountains spread of Argentina and Chile. The sparse population of the place makes it ideal for people looking for a secluded destination with less tourist attraction. Patagonia is a scenic paradise with the Pacific Ocean on the west and the Atlantic Ocean on the east.

Final Thoughts

The mountain ranges featured on this list have helped in training many professional mountaineers that went on and climbed even the highest mountain in the world. However, it is essential to follow all the necessary precautions while mountaineering, as some of the mountain ranges, have difficult, and steep climbing paths. French Alps, Dolomite mountains, and the Rocky Mountains are also some of the scenic mountain ranges to explore, along with the ones mentioned above.

This post was authored by Rebecca Siggers

 

 

November 18, 2020 0 comment
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Found Objects Become Art in the Eyes of Famed Architect Carl Abbott

by Karen LeBlanc November 9, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

An Exhibit at the Art Center Sarasota, Shows the Sculptural Talents of Renown Modernist Architect Carl Abbott

Modernist Architect Carl Abbott, an original member of the Sarasota School of Architecture movement, shows another artistic oeuvre in his exhibit Found Forms.

As the pandemic lingers on, I miss all the artistic stimulation as an art, design and travel writer. Most events have gone virtual out of necessity. So, you can imagine my excitement when I learned that renowned Modernist Architect Carl Abbott would be exhibiting his sculptures for a short 3-day event in conjunction with SarasotaMOD Weekend. 

Architect Carl Abbott and Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist, touring his exhibit Found Forms, a collection of blue painted sculptures made from ordinary objects.

“Sarasota in the 1950s was one of the most important places in the world for architectural creativity, where the greatest design movement of the day came together,” says Carl Abbott, FAIA.  “There’s a reason a handful of communities in the world stand out for architectural innovation.  Sarasota’s one of them.  You really do have to see it to believe it.”

Found Objects, an exhibition of sculpture by Architect Carl Abbott on view at Art Center Sarasota during Sarasota MOD Weekend.

Carl Abbott’s exhibit, Found Forms, hosted by the Art Center Sarasota, shows another side of this extremely talented architect, one of the original members of the Sarasota School of Architecture, a movement in the 1950s that produced an architectural legacy of regional modernism.

Found Objects, an exhibition by Architect Carl Abbott, on view at Art Center Sarasota for a special 3-day event.

Carl Abbott is this year’s honoree with SarasotaMOD Weekend. “It’s a great honor. Hopefully, the attention drawn to the buildings and homes featured will generate more respect for them as architectural treasures deserving of preservation and protection. This is a challenging thing to do given rising land values in many of the places where these buildings and homes reside,” says Abbott, a passionate preservationist and active member of the Sarasota Architecture Foundation  host of SarasotaMOD Weekend.  

Architect Carl Abbott shows Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist, his direction sculptures, North, South, East, and West on view at the Art Center Sarasota. Photo Credit: Janet Minker

Abbott has built a career designing his signature modernist buildings and homes in and around Sarasota and his legacy is everywhere. During SarasotaMOD Weekend, his many architectural achievements were on view in self-guided driving tours. Abbott has also documented his architecture in a recent book, In/Formed by the Land, The Architecture of Carl Abbott.

Ice Tongs painted in blue, a sculpture by Architect Carl Abbott on view at the Art Center Sarasota. Photo Credit: Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist.

“Sculpture and architecture both complement each other. The big difference between sculpture and architecture is that sculpture is not site-based. You can take the forms you like to work with and create. With architecture, I study the land, the way the sun works, and so many other physical factors that drive the design. A sculpture is a spontaneous work of art whereas architecture is calculated and methodical because of the building process. You have to work within the confines of building codes, structural and site engineering, mechanical and acoustical considerations,” explains Abbott.

Found Object, a sculpture by Architect Carl Abbott on view at the Art Center Sarasota. Photo Credit: Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist.

To create his sculptures for Found Forms, Abbott scoured junkyards and his own garage for functional objects with sculptural beauty that he teases out by coating each object in a luminescent cobalt blue.

Found Object, a sculpture by Architect Carl Abbott on view at the Art Center Sarasota. Photo Credit: Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist.

The color, expressed in powder-coated steel paint, is inspired by the flowers Abbott picked as a child, growing in coastal Georgia.  Abbott says he is drawn to objects that possess a knife-edge, a signature feature in many of his architectural works. 

Found Object, a sculpture by Architect Carl Abbott on view at the Art Center Sarasota. Photo Credit: Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist.

What strikes me about Found Objects is Abbott’s ability to see the beauty in objects that are not sculptural by intention but as a consequence of functional design.

Found Objects, sculptures by Architect Carl Abbott on view at the Art Center Sarasota. Photo Credit: Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist.

The blade of a hand push lawnmower is perhaps one of the most stunning examples with its helix design highlighted in blue.  A wheat scythe, ice thongs, a truck spring, and a hay bail, all ordinary tools and utilitarian objects become art at the hands of Abbott.

Wheat Scythe, a sculpture by Architect Carl Abbott on view at the Art Center Sarasota. Photo Credit: Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist.

“My goal is to make people aware of the beauty around them as he points to one of his favorite pieces, a large double X he salvaged from the office of his mentor, the late architect Paul Rudolph, a founding member of the Sarasota School of Architecture. 

X Slash, a sculpture by Architect Carl Abbott on view at the Art Center Sarasota. Photo Credit: Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist.

“The double X was the base of a huge conference table in Rudolph’s office.  I call it X Slash Two. It means two Xs or X with Rudolph and Me,” Abbott notes. 

Other works include the directional metal columns, each representing a point on the compass, North, South, East, and West, made of air conditioning ducts. 

North, South, East and West, sculptures by Architect Carl Abbott on view at the Art Center Sarasota. Photo Credit: Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist.

“It is difficult for artists to transform found objects into fine art. Carl has made significant achievements with these sculptural works advancing the idea that found objects can be art objects,” says Elizabeth Goodwill, Education Director of Art Center Sarasota.

Found Object, a sculpture by Architect Carl Abbott on view at the Art Center Sarasota. Photo Credit: Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist.

A bicycle wheel, a sculpture by Architect Carl Abbott on view at the Art Center Sarasota. Photo Credit: Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist.

The Art Center Sarasota has been in existence for 94 years acting as an artistic hub, offering classes, community spaces for local artists to sell their works and regular gallery showings. The Art Center is currently closed to the public due to the pandemic. It briefly opened to show Abbott’s exhibition during the 3-day SarasotaMod Weekend. At present, you can view the Art Center’s featured works online.

 

November 9, 2020 0 comment
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7 Best Gap Year Destinations For Mountain Lovers

by ContributedPost November 8, 2020
written by ContributedPost

Most people prefer hiking during a gap year to keep fit, among other reasons. There are so many beautiful features to behold, including glaciers and snow-capped mountains.

However, gap year destinations are becoming a bit tricky to choose from. You could rely on a couple of factors to make your decisions easier and wiser—for example, the time of the year and the expedition’s cost.

Here are some suggestions for the best gap year destinations if you’re a mountain lover.

1.   Aconcagua

Located in Mendoza, Argentina, Aconcagua boasts a striking height of 6,962m. It is the highest peak in South America and is located in Western Argentina. A quick fact to note is that although it’s formed from volcanic activity, it is nowhere close to an active volcano.

It’s one of the seven summits of the Andes mountains and comes second after Mount Everest. When getting ready to climb Aconcagua mountain, consider the logistics such as the Aconcagua climb cost and the kind of weather to expect.

It is never safe to climb during the summer since the chances of lightning storms are at their highest. When a mushroom-shaped cloud forms towards the peak, this is a warning that climbers should get ready for a fiercer storm that’s brewing higher ahead.

One way to know about good weather is when winds come blowing from the South. Snow on the peak of the mountain comes from humid sea air cooling when it reaches the highest peaks of the Andes Mountains.

2.   Tanzania

Tanzania has lots of awe-inspiring sites that wouldn’t dare miss your attention. For instance, it’s home to all kinds of wildlife and the most breath-taking physical features.

Mountain lovers should make their way to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. It stands tall and free at the height of 5,895m (19,336feet). Uhuru Peak offers the most exquisite view of sunrise.

You’d also be interested in having a first-hand look at the mountain that was formed as a result of the volcanic eruption. It once had three cones that were considered to be volcanic; Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira.

The last cone, Shira, is no longer a peak since it collapsed. Although Mount Kilimanjaro is dormant at the moment, you’d be pleased to climb and see other incredible features.

3.   Nepal

Nepal contains part of the Himalayas, which is the highest mountain range in the world. As a passionate mountain lover, you’ll discover the beauty that encapsulates Mount Everest during your hiking adventure.

There are hiking trails left by previous mountaineers. This will make your experience even more interesting since the trails enable you to find your way to the top. Mountain lovers also love the trails since they create an opportunity to get closer to the Himalayas. It will be interesting to note that Nepal is home to the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Here, you’re set to indulge in a glorious view of the peak right from the base. This experience is synonymous with thrill as it opens your eyes to mountain sites that you never thought existed.

4.   Peru

Peru is the place to be for every mountain lover since there’s so much to see and explore. For example, there are plenty of mountain ranges that have unique features. They all originate from The Andes, and they include:

Huascaran

It is the highest peak in Peru and stands at 6,746 m (22,132 feet). The intriguing part lies in the fact that you can find the Huascaran mountain within the Huascaran National Park. It’s a world heritage site that will sway you off your feet due to the presence of animals such as jaguars and cougars.

Coropuna

It’s located in Southern Peru and is the third-highest volcano mountain in Peru. It has six cones, the tallest of which stands at 6,425m (21,079 feet). Natives revere Coropuna as one of the most sacred mountains that houses the spirits of the mountains. Your hiking expedition will lead you to some trails that will guide you to the mountain slopes.

Huandoy

The fascinating fact about the Huandoy mountain is that it has four different peaks. The tallest of them rise at 6,395m (20,985 feet).

  5. India

India has always been a sacred destination that holds fast to its faith and religion. The case is not any different when its beautiful physical features are involved. India boasts a magnificent view of the Himalayas, which covers a large section of the country. India has seven mountain ranges that add to its touristic feel, including:

  • The Himalayas – It plays a crucial role in regulating climate change in Northern India. It keeps the cool air from coming into India’s residence areas when winter is all set to land.
  • The Karakoram and Pir Panjal Range.
  • The Purvanchal Range.
  • The Satpura and Vindhya Range
  • The Aravalli Range
  • The Western Ghats
  • The Eastern Ghats

    6. South Africa

One of the mountain ranges in South Africa is Table Mountain, which stands as tall as 1,086 m. It is situated within the Table Mountain National Park. It welcomes tourists from worldwide to a variety of tree species, as well as birds and animals.

Besides mountain climbing, you could enjoy other interesting activities around the park such as paragliding, or even going for nature walks.

Other mountain ranges in South Africa include:

  • Drakensberg – It’s the highest mountain range in South Africa that’s as tall as 3,482m.
  • Magaliesberg
  • Cederberg
  • Amatola – Stands at 1800m above sea level, and its beauty lies in the panoramic views and lush forests.

     7. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka boasts multiple mountains that attract curious mountain lovers from all over the world. Here are mountains that make Sri Lanka one of your most prioritized mountain climbing destinations.

  • Adam’s Peak – Stands at 2,243m, and natives believe it is the dwelling place of Buddha and associate it with their utmost religious beliefs.
  • Kirigalpotta –It is the second-highest mountain in Sri Lanka and stands at 2,388m.
  • Pidurutalagala – What makes it stand out from all the other mountains in Sri Lanka is its numerous forests.

Bottom Line:

There’s a lot to choose from for mountain lovers looking to be one with nature in their gap year. However, before embarking on any adventure, it’s always a great idea to do your homework.

This blog post was authored by Rebecca Siggers

References:

https://www.tripsavvy.com/highest-mountains-in-peru-1619856

https://www.ultimatekilimanjaro.com/blog/12-interesting-kilimanjaro-facts/

https://www.tripzilla.com/mountains-thailand-incredible-views/56759

https://www.godiscoverabroad.com/blog/best-gap-year-destinations-for-mountain-lovers

 

 

November 8, 2020 0 comment
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Stay in Style at Art Ovation & Experience Sarasota’s Art Community

by Karen LeBlanc November 5, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

At Art Ovation Hotel, Visual and Culinary Art Coalesce for an Immersive Experience with Sarasota’s Art Community

Sculpture in front of Art Ovation Hotel in downtown Sarasota

Sarasota, Florida is known for its thriving arts community, home to artists, renowned architects and creative professionals who give the city a vibrant character, unique to any other place in the state. This Gulf Coast city in Southwest Florida is the cradle of a modernist architectural movement known as the Sarasota School of Architecture and a muse to countless artists and artisans. 

The lobby of Art Ovation Hotel acts as an art gallery with rotating exhibits 3 times a year. The current exhibit features Cuban artists.

At the creative epicenter is  Art Ovation, an Autograph Collection hotel, that serves as a cultural ambassador for the community promoting local artists and fostering connections with creative institutions including the Ringling College of Art and Design.

The works of Cuban artists on view in the lobby of Art Ovation Hotel.

The name—Art Ovation—aptly sums up its mission to immerse visitors in a complete sensory experience of the arts. I recently stayed for two nights to feed my imagination metaphorically and literally, as visual and culinary converge in a Cuban exhibit and new pop up restaurant concept. 

Art Ovation Hotel works with the local community to foster the arts. One example is this art project. 9th-grade art students at Cooper High School painted the steps leading up to Overture Restaurant to celebrate its new Cuban inspired menu.

My senses began firing from the moment I step into the art-filled lobby that smells of lemon and white thyme, the hotel’s exclusive signature scent. Cuban music plays with a joyful backbeat and my pandemic-fatigued mood begins to brighten as I take in the colorful artworks hanging in the lobby by Cuban artists.

Painting by Cuban artist Flora Fong, on view in the lobby of Art Ovation Hotel in downtown Sarasota, Florida.

The exhibit, entitled Converging Dialogues in Contemporary Art: Cernuda Arte Represented Artists features works by Giosvany Ecchevarria, Miguel Florido, Flora Fong, Lilian Garcia-Roig, Danuel Mendez and Jorge Luis Santos. Artwork is on display in the lobby, throughout the hallways and meeting areas. 

The entrance to Overture Restaurant located in Art Ovation Hotel. The restaurant created a culinary arts menu to complement the hotel’s Cuban art exhibit for an immersive art experience.

At Overture Restaurant in the hotel, art and food coalesce in a thematic experience reflecting the Cuban exhibit. As a tribute to the art and artists, Overture is serving a Cuban inspired menu of culinary creations, each its own work of art in its presentation and plating.

Overture Restaurant aims to be the “it” dining destination for Sarasota, offering pop up restaurant concepts such as the current Cuban inspired menu.

“Art is not something that just hangs on the wall. It should be a full embodiment of experiences that you want to share with others. That craving for something new and novel is what our menu offers in a sensory-rich, culinary experience,” says Ashley Wright, Director of Outlets. “Everything in this property was done with pure intention. Nothing was done as an afterthought and I think that is reflected with our menu.”

Flan, a culinary work of art, part of the Cuban inspired menu at Overture Restaurant in Art Ovation Hotel.

The culinary experience functions as a “pop-up” restaurant concept, offering the Cuban menu for a limited time. This delicious merging of visual and culinary arts expresses itself in dishes such as the Cuban sandwich served in a cigar box and the espresso milkshake served with a hazelnut wafer cigar that the waiter ignites tableside for a theatrical experience.

Chefs at Overture Restaurant designed artistic presentations for each dish on the Cuban inspired menu such as this Cuban sandwich served in a cigar box.

“Every dish is Instagram-worthy. We want to inspire your palette and picture taking,” says Orcun Turkay, Corporate Director of Food & Beverage, Shaner, the hotel management company.  “Our chefs are the artists in the kitchen. They are no different from other artists; one puts art on paper and one puts it on the plate,” Turkay says.

This espresso milkshake is served with a hazelnut wafer cigar cookie, handrolled in fondant. The server lights up the cookie cigar at the table as part of the presentation.

I met up with Executive Chef Mark Galvin and his associate, Chef Jose Cruz who developed the Cuban inspired menu to sample and photograph their culinary artwork. 

Overture Executive Chef Mark Galvin proudly shows off one of his menu’s showstoppers, the Cuban sandwich served in a cigar box. The culinary team took more than a month to develop the unique recipes, seasonings and presentations for its new Cuban art inspired menu.

This is Overture’s first art-inspired menu and Chef Galvin says he plans to rotate the menu three times a year to coordinate with each hotel exhibit.  “It’s like having a new restaurant every four months with changing menus, music, even server uniforms that coordinate with the theme, “ says Galvin.

Karen LeBlanc, aka The Design Tourist, sampling the Cuban art-inspired menu at Overture Restaurant. Each dish is a work of art including this cookie cigar I’m holding that looks incredibly realistic but tastes yummy!

I sampled the hearty Cuban sandwich served up in a cigar box with plantain chips and seasoned with the restaurant’s secret recipe. For dessert, I had a delectable flan, creamy but not too sweet, a recipe from the Cuban mother of one of the staff cooks. Each dish is designed to be camera-ready for social media. “We want to serve dishes that foster interaction between the server and guests, such as the lighting the cookie cigar. These experiences start a conversation about our cuisine,” says Chef Jose Cruz. 

Cuban art-inspired dish on the new menu at Overture Restaurant in Art Ovation Hotel spiced with secret seasonings the culinary team developed specifically for this menu.

Overture aims to be the dining destination for the community with an identity apart from the hotel, yet drawing inspiration from its art collection for its culinary creations. “A culinary professional is an artist. His art is on the plate rather than on the wall. The visual art is in the plating and the culinary art is the cooking technique,” says Galvin. 

Empanadas on the Cuban art-inspired menu at Overture Restaurant, a temporary menu celebrating the current Cuban art exhibit at Art Ovation Hotel. Overture will start serving its new Cuban menu dinner menu on November 11th followed by the lunch menu starting January 1st, 2021. Cuban breakfast starts on Monday, Nov 9th serving dishes such as Cuban French toast with Guava jam and espresso syrup.

Art Ovation aims to be an incubator for artists offering free gallery space and a chance to showcase their talents with its artist-in-residence studio.

The artist-in-residence gallery space in the lobby of Art Ovation Hotel plays host to local artists to showcase their work and practice their craft.

Located in the lobby across from the hotel bar, the space currently hosts the works of Lisa DiFranza, the hotel’s former culture curator.  Her collection, Time Lapse 2020, features colorful watercolor paintings. Every two weeks, a new artist takes over the space to create art and mingle with guests. The hotel has put the program on hold due to the pandemic and plans to restart it in January.

Paintings by Cuban artist Lilian Garcia-Roig on display in the hotel lobby at Art Ovation Hotel in downtown Sarasota as part of its Cuban Art Exhibit.

“We have an on-site culture curator and a corporate art curator. They work together to vet requests from artists to showcase their works in the artist-in-residence or on our walls. We want to foster and promote local artists by providing free gallery space. They have free reign to paint or create their art in the evenings and interact with the guests,” explains Okan Karadag, Art Ovation Hotel General Manager. 

 In January, Art Ovation plans to restart its active events calendar, playing host to artistic performances on stage in the hotel lobby. “We will feature all types of artists from the local community including poets, dancers, musical performances, and high school programs,” says  Karadag. 

Paintings on the 5th Floor of Art Ovation Hotel by artist Peter Jacob Christ, one of six new art exhibits at the hotel on view.

Throughout the hotel, five other art exhibits showcase a diverse range of works including the bright, whimsical, representational paintings of Peter Jacob Christ. His series Gone But Not Forgotten exudes 1950s signage, typography, toys and everyday objects. 

Painting by artist Peter Jacob Christ, one in his series “Gone But Not Forgotten,’ on view at Art Ovation Hotel in downtown Sarasota, Florida.

Other works that caught my attention include the sensory-rich textile creations of artist Peppi Elona hanging in the hallways leading to the ballroom and meeting spaces.

The Exhibition Women’s Work: The Petticoat Collective featuring the works of 16 award-winning members hangs on the walls of the meeting spaces at Art Ovation Hotel in downtown Sarasota, Florida as one of six new art exhibits the hotel is hosting.

 

Textile art by artist Peppi Elona on display in the meeting spaces of Art Ovation Hotel. The work is part of The Exhibition Women’s Work: The Petticoat Collective featuring the works of 16 award-winning members.

The hotel also hosts Sarasota’s busy social season that typically runs from October to April with more than 350 luncheons and galas taking place in the hotel ballroom, spanning 6200 square feet, meeting rooms, the restaurant, lobby and rooftop bar, Perspective.

Perspective, the rooftop bar and restaurant at Art Ovation Hotel, offers a birdseye view of the cityscape and stunning ocean views.

I end each day of my hotel stay, sipping a glass of wine while watching the sunset over the cityscape from Perspective, the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant. As the skyline morphs from blues to reds, pinks and oranges casting an ethereal glow on the buildings and water, I smile thinking how this would be the perfect painting to capture on canvas. Perhaps a Sarasota artist will paint it one day to hang in the hotel’s permanent collection, reminding us that inspiration is everywhere.

Sunset view from the rooftop bar and restaurant Perspective at Art Ovation Hotel.

To learn more about this four-diamond hotel with 162 rooms, centrally located in downtown Sarasota, check out the website. 

November 5, 2020 0 comment
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Your ‘go-to’ guide to prepare for a cycling holiday

by ContributedPost October 24, 2020
written by ContributedPost

Over the past couple of years, cycling holidays have gained more popularity. It’s understandable why bike travels are on the rise. When you’re traveling around the country on your bicycle, you’re allowing yourself to connect more deeply with the locals and nature. It enables you to stop and enjoy a beautiful sunset or take a break underneath an old tree. In other words, it allows you to dictate the tempo of your journey and focus on locations that matter the most to you.

As much as it sounds fun, it’s vital to keep in mind that cycling around the country is not easy at all. If you’re determined to pack your bags and hit the road, it’s advisable to start with preparations at least three months in advance. The time you’ll need to organize the trip depends on the nature of your journey. No matter how long you intend your cycling holiday to be, it’s vital to be ready for this amazing adventure.

Create a list of the things you’ll need

If you don’t want to experience any troubles on your journey, it’s vital to start with the preparations on time. Create a list of things you’ll need for your cycling holiday, and purchase everything before you hit the road. Provide adequate clothing and food and water supplies that will last until you reach your first destination.

Ensure you always have fresh water in your backpack and buy light snacks that will provide you with proteins and nutrients. Learn about cycling equipment and purchase gear that will make you feel comfortable. Plan your training and ensure you’ll have enough strength to complete your journey.

Create a cycle route

Before you climb on your bike and start pedaling towards your goal, create a cycle route. That way, you’ll always know which way to go. Make sure you always have a map in your pocket in case you end up in a place where you won’t be able to access the internet. Highlight places you want to visit and try not to make any sudden changes during your journey. If you plan to visit obscure travel destinations, try to learn more about the area. You might end up in a place where you won’t be able to travel by bike at all. That’s why it’s vital to create a cycle route and learn more about the places you want to visit.

Don’t go beyond your limits

Some people are not ready to ride around the country for a month, and that’s okay. Cycling is all about fun. You probably want to enjoy your holiday and spend quality time with your family or friends. If you don’t think you can handle a long journey, create a shorter route. You don’t want to be exhausted all the time and come back home even more tired than you used to be before the journey began.

If you’ve never been on a cycling holiday before, a three-day trip is a good start. That will give you an idea of what to expect on your next journey. It’s vital to set a destination according to your abilities. Instead of struggling to reach your goal, ride at your own pace and try to have fun on your holiday. After all, that’s what this is all about.

Ride the bike as often as you can

Riding a bicycle for a few hours a day is not as easy as it sounds. You will need to train often to ensure you’ll have enough strength for your cycling holiday. Try to ride a bike as often as you can. Instead of taking the bus to get to work, try riding your bicycle. That will help you stay physically active and build strength. If you start your journey unprepared, it will be hard for you to keep up and reach your goals. Add cycling to your daily routine if you can. We’re all busy, and most people don’t have enough strength or time to ride around the city. However, it’s not impossible to make some changes that will prepare you for the upcoming journey.

Engage in regular physical activities

Cycling is not the only type of physical activity that will help you build strength. It is of great importance to exercise at least three times a week. If you can, try to incorporate wellness into your daily routine.

Some people don’t believe that they can keep up and exercise daily. Analyze your schedule and eliminate activities that are not vital for your physical and mental well-being. An average person spends at least two hours a day scrolling through social media. Instead of informing yourself about what’s trending on Twitter or Instagram, use some of that time to exercise. Not only will you feel a lot healthier, but you’ll also build strength for your cycling adventure.

Choose your clothing carefully

Adequate clothing is crucial for your cycling journey. Without appropriate clothes, you will be very uncomfortable during the whole trip. Keep in mind that you will spend at least a few hours a day on your bike. Most people start their cycling journey in the middle of spring or summer. That means that there will be times when you’ll have to cycle in the sun. Without appropriate clothing, your skin won’t be able to breathe, and you might have to deal with skin irritations and sweating. To avoid that, purchase the finest cycle clothing and accessories that will lower the risk of skin irritation.

Bike shorts and long sleeve shirts made specifically for cycling will give you the most comfort while riding. Although cycling clothing is not cheap, it’s vital to invest if you want to ensure comfort.

Ride early in the morning

If you have the option to choose to ride at your own pace, start cycling early in the morning. That way, you will avoid severe heat waves that may harm your health and drain you even more. Always wear sunscreen and drink a lot of water. If you’re riding in the sun, take short breaks often and ensure your stomach is full. Don’t ride in the afternoon unless it’s necessary. If you plan your holiday carefully, you will never have to deal with sunburns and possible skin damage.

Wear a protective biking gear

Being a traffic participant comes with a lot of responsibilities. Always stay alert and follow all the rules. Be mindful when riding a bike, and pay attention to other traffic participants. You’re not supposed to be riding recklessly, especially if you want to visit big cities. Locate bike paths and wear protective gear when you’re on the road.

Sometimes no matter how hard you try to ride carefully, other traffic participants may contribute to road accidents. It’s vital to wear your protective gear to minimize the chances of getting hurt. Invest in a quality bike helmet and wrist pads. Your safety should be very important to you. No matter how expensive the gear can be, it’s vital to invest in your protection.

Take care of yourself

Riding a bike for a few hours a day requires a lot of physical strength. Eat well and drink plenty of water to ensure you’re healthy and well-hydrated. Shower once a day and rest well. Always keep your camping gear with you, because you won’t be able to spend every night in a motel. Although it may sound scary, for most people, camping in nature is a positive experience. You will learn more about yourself and experience something new for the first time.

People who are determined to visit small villages and explore the countryside cannot expect luxury on their journey. After all, the main purpose of your trip is to reconnect with nature and try new exciting things. Ensure you always have clean clothes with you and change them regularly. If your trip lasts longer than a week, make sure to wash your laundry often so that you always have a clean pair in your backpack.

Learn the basics of mechanics

During your trip, it’s vital to inspect your bike daily. If you want to complete your journey, you will have to learn how to clean and lubricate your bike. You might have to clean your bicycle daily if you’re riding in wet and muddy conditions.

Lube the chain frequently to avoid breakdowns. You don’t have to be an expert, but it’s vital to learn a thing or two about proper bike maintenance. Locate bike service centres if you need to replace tires, or if you notice any malfunctions that you can’t fix on your own.

Ride on different surfaces

Riding on bumpy roads or rocky paths will be a part of your daily routine. You have to prepare yourself for this experience, which is why it’s vital to practice on these surfaces. Climb on your bicycle and ride outside your comfort zone. Don’t assume that this will be easy. It’s vital to learn how to handle your bike in these situations. People often refuse to participate in these activities before their trip. Try to push yourself to explore different types of terrains and motivate yourself to practice as much as you can. That way, you won’t face a lot of difficulties during your trip.

Train in a variety of weather conditions

Determine how various weather conditions may impact your riding style. Riding in hot weather is not the same as riding in the rain. Prepare yourself for possible weather changes and ensure you have adequate gear in your backpack. During rainy days, it’s advisable to wear appropriate waterproof gear. Train in a variety of weather conditions to prepare yourself for the upcoming journey. Try to avoid riding in the winter because you can easily get hurt. Follow the patterns and variations in the weather forecasts. That will ensure you always have adequate clothing and gear.

Purchase a high-quality bike

Before your journey begins, make sure your bike is in good condition. However, if this is your first cycling trip, make sure to purchase a mountain bike for beginners. A high-quality bike is vital for a successful trip. Choose a bicycle that fits your needs and make sure that it suits you. A mountain bike is ideal for handling difficult terrain. Determine your budget, but don’t hesitate to invest more. A good-quality bike may serve you for years. Try to consult other cyclists and ask them what type of bike is ideal for your journey. Experienced cyclists will be able to give you solid advice. Mountain bikes dominate the market, and for a reason! However, if that seems too much for you, purchase a road bike instead.

Learn more about the places you want to visit

If you’re traveling outside the country, it’s advisable to learn a few words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. Learn how to order food or ask for directions and learn about their culture as well. It’s vital to become familiar with cultural rules if you’re planning to travel around an exotic country.

Discover tourist destinations and visit as many places as you can. Document your trip and try to become friends with the locals. Most people fail to realize the importance of communication during their journey. It’s vital to reach to the locals and inform yourself about the road that lies ahead. That way, you will never get lost and always have someone on your side to help you if you need support.

Conclusion

Preparing for your cycling holiday is not easy, but it’s worth it. Once you build your strength and equip yourself with appropriate gear, you will enjoy your trip to the fullest. Create a cycle route, but don’t be afraid to improvise and try something new. As long as you know how to get back on the main road, exploring other areas is more than recommended. Don’t forget to bring your charger and enough money for food, water and accommodation. Sleep under the start if needed, but make sure you and your travel buddies are safe. Once you become aware of all the things you need to take care of before you hit the road, it will be easier to fill your journey with joy and comfort.

This blog post was authored by Patrick Adams, Freelance writer and blogger, Sydney, Australia

https://www.clippings.me/patrickadams

 

 

October 24, 2020 0 comment
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Things Every Savvy Traveler Should Always Pack

by ContributedPost October 12, 2020
written by ContributedPost

Depending on where you plan on spending your next vacation, there are many things you can pack to make your trip a bit easier. Whether you’re going on a business trip or are taking a break to rest, you can pack many items that will help you and make your trip better and more organized. Make a list once you book your trip and make sure you prepare everything in time before you need to pack. Many items from the list are something you can use in your everyday life and these gadgets will help you in numerous situations.

Documentation holder

During your vacation, you probably always worry about your documents and how to make sure they’re secure. To help you always know where everything is, find a document holder that has multiple sections and make sure you organize documents by type to be able to find something in a hurry. Also, make copies of your documents and keep them somewhere safe. Some countries allow tourists to use copies of documents and keep the originals in the hotel safe.

Earplugs or headphones

If you’re going to a city known for busy and loud traffic or to a resort with a pool close to your window, think about buying earplugs so you could sleep and rest. This can come in handy during your flight especially if you struggle sleeping when people are talking around you. If you’re used to sounding during your sleep or simply want to enjoy music while strolling through a new city, invest in a quality pair of headphones. Think about cordless one because they will take less space in your bag.

Powerbank and adapters

Many travelers like to use as much time as they can in order to see everything that needs to be seen in that place. That means your phone and camera will need charging. That is where a powerful yet strong mini power bank comes to the rescue and helps you in keeping your electronics batteries constantly full. Also, if you’re going to Europe, keep in mind different types of outlets and find adapters as soon as you land in so you can use your laptop or blow dryer. Ask the place where you’re staying about the type of outlets they have to avoid the discomfort of not being able to use your electronics.

First aid kit

Even if you take your most comfortable shoes, there’s always a possibility of making blisters which can prevent you from sightseeing. In addition to that, new types of food and spices can cause stomach ache and it’s always good to have some medication such as probiotics to help you ease the pain and discomfort. Include bandaids, some vitamins, and medications for fever nausea, just to be able to react before things go worse. If you have medications you need to take every day, bring a pill organizer to keep track of using your daily dose of medications.

Other amenities

Having in mind that you’ll be out sightseeing the whole day include things like wet wipes, water bottle, and snack box in your bag. In addition to that, always wear a small scarf, an umbrella, and a hat if you’re visiting places where it could get cold in a second. Things like a dry shampoo, tweezers and scissors, and eye drops are handy items to have to be able to get ready for a night out after the whole day is out.

Make sure you pack lightly but smartly to avoid dragging your luggage through busses and airports. Create a checklist and go through it just to see do you actually need everything you wanted to pack. Think about items that can ease your trip and make them your priority. You can always bring fewer clothes and find a laundry service and wash your clothes, or simply find hostels or Airbnb places that have this option included.

 

This post was authored by Emma Joyce

 

 

 

 

 

October 12, 2020 0 comment
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The Unconventional Art of German Expressionist Herman Scherer

by Karen LeBlanc August 25, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

I travel to connect with humanity through its creativity, expressed in art, craft, design and architecture. Things of the imagination, crafted by hand speak to my soul and make me feel alive and inspired. In December 2019, I traveled to Freiburg, Germany, a stunning storybook city that shares a border with France and Switzerland. 

Freiburg, Germany, photo credit: The Design Tourist

The centuries-old shared history of South Baden, Germany, North-West Switzerland and Upper Alsace, France has shaped some of the most celebrated creative minds in Europe including Julius Bissier, the most famous artist born in Freiburg in the 20th century.

I’m interested in ones who fly below the radar of the conventional art market. The disruptors who are brave enough to introduce art and ways of thinking ahead of their time.  This is why I connected deeply with the expressionist art of Hermann Scherer, a German artist whose works were on view at The Freiburg Museum of Contemporary Art. 

Freiburg Museum of Contemporary Art. Photo Credit: The Design Tourist

In his short lifetime, Hermann Scherer was prolific in painting and sculpture. He lived from 1893 until 1927, dying at the age of 34 of an infection after cutting his finger while carving one of his wooden sculptures.

German Expressionist Artist Hermann Scherer

Today the Baden native is considered one of the most important expressionists in Switzerland. During his lifetime, he was maligned and dismissed for his fluorescent paintings that glow and grab your attention for their disorientating scale, proportion and colors. 

Painting by German Expressionist Artist Hermann Scherer. Photo Credit: The Design Tourist

My guide Claudia Kaiser explains Scherer’s unique paint recipe that gave his paintings a luminescent quality. “It’s oil painting but he mixes turpentine into the oil to make it more fluid as if the pigment of the color comes out of the painting on the surface of the painting,”  Claudia says. We tour works from the last 3 years of Scherer’s life from 1923 to 1926, featuring works on loan and 3 paintings and one sculpture by Herman Scherer in its permanent collection. 

Wooden Sculptures by German Expressionist Artist Herman Scherer

Wooden Sculptures by German Expressionist Artist Herman Scherer

His paintings look flat with one-dimensional landscape and oversized head and hands with an emphasis on exaggerated facial expressions. 

Self Portrait Painting by German Expressionist Artist Hermann Scherer. Photo Credit: The Design Tourist

Scherer drew inspiration from the works of Edward Munch and developed an expressive visual language painting in bold bright colors.

Painting by German Expressionist Artist Hermann Scherer. Photo Credit: The Design Tourist

His paintings are raw, emotional commentaries on the themes of yearning, inner conflict love, passion fear and solitude. The exhibit features artworks held by the museum and those on loan.  

Painting by German Expressionist Artist Hermann Scherer. Photo Credit: The Design Tourist

We stand to admire a painting inspired by Dostoevsky’s novel Crime and Punishment. “THe expressionists were very drawn to Dostoevsky because he dealt with figures out of the norm. All states of mind not in the normal range. The expressionists were also drawn to this state of emotions,” Claudia explains.  Scherer would often visit Freiburg to see his sister, who lived a few miles outside of town. 

Painting by German Expressionist Artist Hermann Scherer. Photo Credit: The Design Tourist

During his life, Scherer’s art never reached any critical acclaim. His paintings were misunderstood and poorly received so Scherer struggled financially. To save money on supplies, Scherer painted both sides of the canvas.

Painting by German Expressionist Artist Hermann Scherer. Photo Credit: The Design Tourist

The backs of several of his paintings are open and to view the discarded works on the opposite sides of the canvases. 

Painting by German Expressionist Artist Hermann Scherer. Photo Credit: The Design Tourist

Before I go, I stop to sit and ponder in a room with black outlines painted on the walls marking the places of missing paintings, stolen by the Nazis during World War Two. It’s a poignant reminder of the cultural cost of war, so many artistic treasures lost to history.

Freiburg Museum of Contemporary Art. Photo Credit: The Design Tourist

“I dug deep into our archives and discovered these paintings signified by the black outlines on the wall, were part of our collection but were taken away by the Nazis in 1937. So here you can see the politics of the Nazis and what it has done to our collection,” Claudia says.

Freiburg Museum of Contemporary Art. Photo Credit: The Design Tourist

She estimates the Nazis confiscated half of the museum’s collection and today they are either in the hands of private collectors or were destroyed.  “The missing paintings are in a data bank but until now, we haven’t found any of them.”

Freiburg, Germany, photo credit: The Design Tourist

War took a toll on German culture and its scars are evident in Freiburg. An Air raid on November 27th, 1944 nearly decimated the city center. Today, Freiburg is a charming city that sits at the cultural crossroads of Germany, France and Switzerland yet off the beaten path of German’s more well-known destinations. For more on its many attractions go to https://visit.freiburg.de/en.  

To check VISA requirements for Germany, here’s a quick resource:

 

August 25, 2020 0 comment
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Why You Should Travel Alone

by Mallory Knee July 22, 2020
written by Mallory Knee

Just you and the open road—is there anything better? Personal growth and learning opportunities are some of the biggest reasons why you should travel alone.

Traveling alone is a whirlwind adventure that everyone should experience in their lifetime. Traveling with friends and family has become the norm for decades, posing the question: Why would I want to travel alone? Traveling alone is an experience that can cultivate immense growth, opportunity, and learning. Cultural immersion, increased creativity, improved confidence, self-discovery, building new connections, and freedom are just a few of the life-changing by-products of traveling alone.

Western backpacker woman exploring India

Western backpacker woman exploring India

Cultural Immersion 

Cultural immersion is one of the most prominent reasons why you should travel alone. Without the comfort of familiar faces and places, our awareness of our surroundings increases. Focusing on the culture surrounding you can be an eye-opening experience that will create long-lasting new viewpoints on life and provide a deeper understanding of cultures you weren’t aware of before.

Increased Creativity 

Traveling alone can force creative problem-solving. Maybe it’s something as simple as finding a way to take a selfie that shows off the scenery or finding a way to communicate your need for directions in a foreign language. Once again, traveling alone pushes us out of our comfort zone to learn new skills.

Improved Confidence 

The thought of traveling alone can often be unsettling. Being in a foreign location with only yourself to rely on can seem like an impossible task for anyone who thrives off companionship. However, by the end of your solo trip, you will be feeling confident and

Young woman solo trip travel sightseeing

Young woman solo trip travel sightseeing

empowered by your ability to conquer such a feat alone. A successful trip may even inspire the confidence to tackle other daunting areas of your life.

Self-discovery 

Much like a boost in confidence, traveling alone will give you time for self-discovery. It forces you to make all the decisions—and then reflect on those decisions. There are also plenty of solitary moments to reflect on the bigger picture of your life.

Solo Traveller Adventure Man Standing at Beautiful Alpine Lake

Solo Traveller Adventure Man Standing at Beautiful Alpine Lake . Happiness and Well Being Concept.

The Ultimate Freedom 

Solo vacations create the ultimate experience of freedom that is hard to replicate anywhere else. Not only do you get a break from the responsibilities back home, such as jobs and personal commitments, but you are also free to do whatever you feel. Group vacations require everyone to rely on one another for a smooth trip. By traveling alone, you get to control the when, where, and why of every aspect of the trip, allowing you a sense of freedom unlike any other. 

New Connections 

Taking a trip alone does not have to be a solo venture for the entire trip. Visiting a new destination by yourself can be the extra push you need to meet new people. Chatting with locals or joining other tourists can create new friendships and learning experiences for all. 

These are some of the most prominent reasons why you should travel alone. Whether it’s a road trip to a location a few hours away or a cross-country excursion, solo travel can bring many positive changes to your life. Pack your bags, brush up on your road trip safety tips or country-specific travel guides, and prepare for the growth and new experiences to come.

 

July 22, 2020 0 comment
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How the Luxury Travel Industry Is Responding to the Coronavirus Pandemic

by ContributedPost July 22, 2020
written by ContributedPost

As the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted communities all around the world in unexpected ways, the travel industry seems to suffer the most consequences, with no indication when things will return to normal. However, one thing’s for certain; traveling as we know it will never be quite the same again. With a rising number of travelers opting for more high-end vacations this year, here is how the luxury travel industry decided to respond to the coronavirus pandemic:

1. Secluded villas have become the number one accommodation option

Although many high-end hotels around the world have enhanced their cleaning and disinfecting practices, a large number of travelers are still hesitant to stay in luxury hotels and interact with different staff members the way they did before. Instead, the travel industry is seeing a rise in demand for secluded luxury villa rentals among avid travelers.

But even though people are evidently eager to go on vacation, they still want to maintain social distancing practices. For this reason, luxury travelers are declining services such as private chefs and housekeeping during their stay, which are commonly included in villa rental packages. What’s more, not only are these tourists renting private villas, but also ensuring that the destination they choose is as quiet and reclusive as possible, for the safest accommodation option currently available.

2. Private jet companies are seeing a boom in popularity

Commercial airlines are dramatically suffering from the COVID-19 travel restrictions, despite the health checks and protective equipment requirements many airports around the world have implemented. Private jet companies, however, are seeing an increase in demand, both from travelers booking last-minute vacations, and people eager to evacuate countries in lockdowns.

Private airplanes generally fly out of smaller terminals, and are subjected to different security and health screenings, which tend to be quicker and less rigorous, while also being able to bypass certain travel restriction thanks to legal loopholes. All of these reasons might explain why travelers are suddenly so eager to spend more on such a luxury transportation option.

3. Luxurious off-shore travel is on the rise

Even though we’ve seen that many cruises have been put off due to the high risk of virus transmission, yachting, on the other hand, is as popular as ever, and is even being encouraged among luxury travelers. The reason for this increase in popularity is the privacy and comfort that yachting trips offer, as long as a trusted and reputable broker is chosen.

But apart from renting or buying their own yachts, high-end travelers are also investing in luxury Ribco inflatable boats, which are among the best and most powerful yacht tenders available. These boats give travelers the opportunity to access to smaller, more secluded beaches, allowing them to maintain a social distance in stunning natural surroundings, while only adding to the luxury travel experience.

4. High-end spas and resorts are more popular than ever

While many countries around the world have ordered spas and wellness centers to shut down amid the coronavirus pandemic, high-end spas in locations where restrictions weren’t quite as strict are still remaining open. However, they have increased their cleanliness and sanitization measures, in order to prioritize the health and safety of their clients.

These wellness resorts are catering to their clientele by promoting relaxation packages that aim to relieve the stress and anxiety that’s related to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Due to these services, it doesn’t seem quite as surprising that spa and wellness centers in remote locations are more popular than ever before among luxury travelers.

5. Luxury travel companies are allowing postponements

Evidently, there are a number of safe ways to travel during the coronavirus pandemic, which cater to the average high-end tourist. However, a significant number of luxury travelers are still more inclined to postpone or cancel their vacation this year due to health and safety concerns. Others might also worry about getting stranded in a remote location due to travel bans, as most high-end travelers are often quite busy individuals with tight schedules.

For these reasons, many luxury travel companies and advisors are offering their clients the opportunity to postpone their vacation until later in the year or even 2021, although full cancellations might not always be available, as it’s difficult to get refunds at this moment from airlines, hotels and other travel providers.

Although travel is slowly coming back in different, reinvented forms among luxury tourists, at this point in time it’s imperative to put a focus on qualitative, instead of quantitative travel, in order to make a positive impact together, as global citizens.

This blog post was authored by Sophia Smith

July 22, 2020 0 comment
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4 Tips for Traveling to Hong Kong for the First Time

by ContributedPost June 17, 2020
written by ContributedPost

Of all the great Asian cities, Hong Kong ranks very high on the most popular cities lists and many people regard it as a true gem of the orient. Traveling to Hong Kong for the first time requires you to have a solid and extensive plan so you don’t miss out on its main attractions. Even then, you’ll only scratch the surface of this great city’s rich cultural and historic scene.

Here are several practical tips to bear in mind when planning your very first exploration of Hong Kong.

Essential first-visit tips

There are a few essential things to know before your first visit to Hong Kong. The local currency is the Hong Kong dollar but you don’t have to rush and exchange your money as there are many ATMs around the city where you can withdraw your money but you need to first enable the international withdrawal option. Also, most places accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express. Going around the city isn’t a problem in Hong Kong as it has a reliable, clean and inexpensive public transportation but you will need to obtain your Octopus card as soon as you arrive.

One tricky thing about Hong Kong is its weather as this entire region has all four seasons and contrary to what most people think, this isn’t an all-year-round tropical country.  This means that summers are typically hot and humid and winters can get quite cold, so the best time for your visit is somewhere between March and June or in September.

Book your accommodation

Booking the right accommodation in Hong Kong isn’t cheap so you’ll need to set aside a larger chunk of your budget towards that expense and it’s certainly a smart move to do the booking in advance so you can snatch the most affordable and convenient option. You could stay in a hotel but a better option might be to consider apartments for rent in Hong Kong, just make sure you think of the best location that fits best with your plan and itinerary. Staying in a rented flat gives you more space, privacy, comfort and freedom of movement. Your traveling buddies get to stay with you and you can all enjoy cooking meals together instead of spending money to eat out every evening. You also get to meet other tenants in the building – if they’re locals, you might get some inside tips on the best places to visit and if they’re travelers like you, you can share your experiences and make new friendships!

Don’t miss out on these delicacies

Many passionate travelers say that the best way to get to know a country and its culture is through food and this is where Hong Kong will not fail you. The choice of delicacies is huge and the price range as well but there is always something for every wallet. One thing you mustn’t miss is Dim Sum but also make sure to try the great local BBQ, pork roast, wonton noodle soup, Hong Kong waffles, egg tarts and many more. You’ll also have the opportunity to book foodie tours that take you to great restaurants or roam around on your own exploring the hidden gems of the city.

Find time for these great sights

There are so many exciting places to see in Hong Kong that you can just boil it down to a few, but you need to start somewhere and why not make it outdoors at the wonderful Hong Kong Park, a refreshing green spot in the heart of the city. After that, drop by the observatory and the waterfall as you make your way to the Peak Tram which will take you to Victoria Peak where you can enjoy in the breath-taking views of the harbor. It’s also a unique experience to explore the city on foot and marvel at its original street art pieces. Also, don’t miss out on the chance to climb the 268 steps that lead to the famous statue of the Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island.

Hong Kong is a city rich in cultural and historical heritage that leaves no visitor indifferent. Such is the walk of the Ping Shan Heritage Trail that takes you through the less-known northern district and past the spectacular ancient sites of the Tang clan. Another great way to learn more about the country’s history is by visiting the Hong Kong Museum of History that proudly displays the region’s social history, ethnography, archaeology, and natural history.

You could easily spend years discovering Hong Kong’s busy streets, vibrant markets, fantastic restaurants and bustling nightlife, so hopefully, with these tips, you’ll be able to compose your itinerary and explore Hong Kong on your own terms.

Authored by:

Lana Hawkins
Author, smoothdecorator.com

email:  lana.j.hawkins@gmail.com

June 17, 2020 0 comment
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10 Best Tips For Overcoming Language Barriers When Traveling

by ContributedPost June 4, 2020
written by ContributedPost

Traveling is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences you can ever have. Visiting another country gives you the space to explore and broaden your horizons. You get to learn about the culture, history, customs, food, music, and all the other things unique to the country you’re visiting. However, language barriers can sometimes be an obstacle.

When you’re traveling to a foreign country, not everyone speaks English. There are those countries whose people speak English poorly, or not at all. In those cases, you need to walk the extra mile to overcome those barriers. Luckily, we’ve put together a list of 10 best tips for overcoming language barriers while traveling.

Let’s take a closer look.

1.     Do Some Research

Before your next trip begins, you should do some research on the country you’re about to fly to. It’s important that you learn the basics to be able to overcome language barriers.

Make sure that you know:

  • what’s the official language
  • are there any other languages spoken besides the official
  • what are the cultural differences

For example, Luxembourg is a country with three official languages. They speak French, German and Luxembourgish.

Make sure that you know what language is spoken in the part of Luxemburg you’re visiting and learn a thing or two about the people who live there.

This way, you’ll be able to prepare better for what’s waiting for you.

2.     Use Language Apps

Technology is there to help us overcome language barriers easier than ever before. Thanks to different types of language apps, we can get around a foreign country much easier.

There are two types of language apps you could use:

  • language learning app
    If you’re willing to invest some serious effort into overcoming the language barrier when traveling, you can start the preparation a couple of weeks before the trip.

You can use a free language learning app such as DuoLingo, a try to learn the basics of the language. You’ll find it easier to communicate and maybe even like the language so much you’ll continue learning after your trip.

  • translation app
    If you don’t have the time to learn the language, you can use some of the best translations apps that are a lifesaver for language barriers.


There are apps that allow voice translation. All you have to do is chose the target language, say something in English, and have the app translate it and pronounce it in the target language.

It’s like you have a translator with you at all times.

Language apps are a huge help when traveling abroad, so make sure you find the ones you like and install them before your next journey.

3.     Carry a Dictionary

You may feel like dictionaries are old school, and you’re right. But, they’re sometimes the best choice for overcoming language barriers.

The thing is, technology can fail:

  • you could lose your smartphone
  • you don’t always have access to Wi-Fi
  • your battery can run out
  • your smartphone could die

In these cases, you’ll be left with nothing.

But, a pocket dictionary could save you and help you communicate what has happened to you.

Buy a small pocket dictionary and try using it as much as you can, to establish proper communication and practice your language skills.

4.     Learn Phrases

When you’re in a foreign country, it’s nice to show respect for the locals and people who’ve welcomed you to their country.

The best way to pay respect to your hosts and everyone you run into during your trip is to learn some basic phrases by heart.

Memorize phrases such as:

  • Thank you!
  • How much is this?
  • Where can I find…?

It’s not that hard to learn these simple sentences and use them with the local people later on.

This will make your trip much more enjoyable and people will like the fact that you made an effort.

5.     Rely on Body Language

When everything else fails, you’ve still got body language and mime on your side.

Using your body to explain something will, in most cases, turn out to be a success.

Just make sure that you’re:

  • talking in English slowly
  • using your hands and facial expressions to convey a message
  • pointing at things you’re talking about
  • being patient

Also, make sure you thank the person who had the patience to listen to you and try and figure out what you wanted to say.

Body language and mime are universal and can get you out of some tricky situations, so don’t be hesitant to use it.

6.     Download Offline Maps

A map is something you need to have by your side at all times.

If you don’t want to bring a printed map with you, like an old school tourist, you can download an offline map to your phone.

This will make sure you always have a map by your side, regardless of finding a Wi-Fi connection.

An offline map will help you:

  • get around easier
  • ask for directions by pointing to a location on the map
  • not get lost
  • find everything you planned on visiting

Even if you aren’t able to read the foreign language, you’ll be able to compare the sign from the map to the ones you see on the street.

7.     Pen & Paper

Another great way to use non-verbal communication to get around in a foreign country is to use pen and paper.

When things go wrong, and you simply can’t establish the communication with a local person, take out a piece of paper and draw what you’re trying to say.

Let’s say you’re looking for the market:

  • draw a fruit stand
  • draw a question mark
  • add a bit of body language and charades
  • hand the pen and paper to the other person
  • allow them to draw the directions to the market

This type of communication might just work out in some situations, so be prepared to use it as well.

Remember, there’s nothing wrong with asking for this type of help, as long as you’re polite and nice to the people helping you.

8.     Do Mutual Teaching

Sometimes, when we travel abroad, we meet great local people who become our friends.

Whether it’s the girl working in the local bakery, or a tour guide we met at an excursion, we can make great friends while we travel.

If you’re lucky enough to find a friend on your next trip, you can do some mutual teaching:

  • teach them English
  • have them teach you their language

If you go to places together, try speaking to each other on both languages to have equal practice out of it. This could be a beneficial and rewarding experience since you’ll have a language teacher with you at all times.

9.     Know The Cultural Differences

Another super-important thing that you have to keep in mind when traveling is the cultural difference.

Non-verbal communication can differ across countries so it’s important that you know some basic rules:

  • How close can you get to a person?
  • Does this nation approve of physical contact during communication?
  • Can you interrupt them while talking?
  • Are you allowed to speak to women directly?

Find answers to these and many other similar questions, to ensure you’re communicating with them properly.

10.     Relax & Do Your Best

Finally, there’s one last piece of advice you should remember.

Wherever you go, and however poorly you speak the local language, don’t forget to relax.

The best way to communicate a message to a person who speaks a different language than you is to:

  • stay relaxed
  • do your best
  • have fun
  • not be ashamed
  • not be under too much pressure

Just go ahead and enjoy your time traveling, not putting too much pressure on yourself to speak a foreign language.

Languages are hard, and it’s perfectly understandable if you’re unable to speak a language other than English.

But, a smile and some positive energy can go a long way, so use them to turn your trip into another pleasant and adventurous episode.

Final Thoughts

Language barriers exist, but it doesn’t mean you have to be multilingual to travel. It’s a great idea to do some preparation and learn some phrases before you head out. Also, arm yourself with technology and old school language aids to make sure you’ve got it all covered.

Use the tips above to overcome the language barriers wherever you go. Communicate with an open heart and mind and enjoy all your future travel adventures.

_____________________________________________________________________________________
Nicole Garrison is a self-driven specialist who is currently working as a freelance writer at Studicus and BestEssayEducation is trying to improve herself and her blogging career. She is always seeking to discover new ways for personal and professional growth. That’s why Nicole develops and improves her skills throughout the writing process to help to inspire people. Also, she writes for GrabMyEssay, rounding out her professional writing career.

June 4, 2020 0 comment
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Explore Regensburg, Germany with The Design Tourist

by Karen LeBlanc April 25, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

In this episode of The Design Tourist, host Karen LeBlanc travels to Regensburg, Germany, a UNESCO World Heritage to explore the link between the city’s culture and creativity through its architecture, art and handicrafts. We’ll shop the city’s many artisan stores and regional handicrafts at its famous Christmas Markets and learn about Regensburg’s Bavarian history and heritage. 

 

April 25, 2020 0 comment
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Helpful Tips For People Tackling Long-distance Road Trips Alone

by ContributedPost April 16, 2020
written by ContributedPost

There’s nothing that’s so anxiety-inducing such as driving alone for long, with no one by your side to keep you company. And again, that’s a reality for many people, and therefore, it’s necessary to discuss this so more people will know they should keep themselves safe during the ride. Sometimes, that’s all easier said than done, so here are a few solo driving tips that will help you drive all alone and stay safe while doing so.

Plan your road trip in advance

Leaving your home on time and making stops on the way to your destination is a sure way to have a secure and carefree road trip. However, planning everything in advance can be of great help, especially to those who don’t have enough experience to just get into their car and drive. Hence, if you have a long drive coming up, make sure to plan it beforehand, so you can be sure that you won’t have to take unnecessary breaks to get some rest. You don’t need to plan it to a tee, just having a general overview can be of great help.  “Ensuring that you car doesn’t break down is essential in making sure you have a fun & memorable road trip. Dealing with a car that refuses to start is nothing but a nightmare.”

Take some breaks to rest and recharge

Driving for multiple hours is straining and exhausting activity, which is why it’s crucial to take breaks throughout the duration of the ride. Whether you’ll opt for spending the night in the inn on the way, or just making frequent breaks to eat, shower and pump gas, it’s absolutely crucial to do so, especially if you’re prone to bouts of tiredness and low energy. Getting enough rest should be of utmost importance, and if you’re worrying that doing that might make your journey much longer, well, let’s just say that it’s much better to drive more, then to suffer serious consequences due to exhaustion and stubbornness.

Check your car and bring essential spare parts

One of the main conditions for having a safe long drive is, of course, a full-functioning vehicle that won’t break down after a few miles. So, in case you know or suspect that something’s wrong with your car, you should take it to the mechanic prior to your road trip. It’s also highly recommended that you bring along a few essential spare car parts, such as hose clamps, condensers, a water pump, and even a spare headlight, just in case. You should pay utmost attention to the state of your car, especially if you’re certain you won’t be encountering any car shops along the way.

Find a way to stay focused

Long hour drives can be extremely tiring, so it’s essential to stay focused and alert at all times, but mainly during the night, due to low visibility and other conditions that make driving much more difficult. So, if you’re unable to take a break and get some sleep (even though it’s highly recommended to do so), you should fuel yourself with enough caffeine and/or energy drinks in order to stay awake. Aside from that, listening to upbeat music or interesting radio programs can also help you be alert for at least a few hours. However, since long night rides can be risky, it’s always better to take a pause and get at least an hour of sleep before continuing your long-distance road trip.

Carpooling can be very helpful

Being alone in the car can sometimes be a truly alienating experience, and having at least one or two people by your side can keep you animated and awake, which is of great help. Still, you should be careful who you let into your car, so if possible, try to ask people you know and trust to keep you company during the ride. This can be beneficial to those who’re traveling in the same direction as you, so feel free to ask around prior to your road trip.

Also, asking them to chip in for gas can significantly cut your travel costs, which can leave you with more room to spend money on more quality meals and better accommodation. However, due to the current coronavirus situation, you should stay away from driving long distances and associating with people you don’t really know.

Conclusion

Driving all alone doesn’t have to be difficult or exhausting, but it’s essential to plan things accordingly, mainly if you’re an inexperienced driver. Therefore, taking frequent breaks and keeping yourself focused can be of huge significance, as well as asking someone to keep you company. Finally, always remember to keep your car in good shape, because that will definitely help you have a smooth and pleasant journey.

 

About the author: Mike Johnston is an avid freelance writer and blogger with a focus in home improvement, interior design, sustainable living, travel, and tourism.

 

 

April 16, 2020 0 comment
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Top Scenic Drives in South Carolina

by Mallory Knee April 1, 2020
written by Mallory Knee

The Carolinas contain a lot of beauty, so if you’re looking for a good way to take it all in, check out the top scenic drives in South Carolina!

Dying to get away? Sometimes the easiest way to tame your travel urges until your next big trip is by hopping in the car. Whether you take a two-hour drive or a weekend road trip to all the spots on this list, just getting behind the wheel and driving can quell your travel bug. South Carolina is an Eastern state with some of the most beautiful views. When life goes back to normal after the global pandemic we’re currently facing, head off on one of the top scenic drives in South Carolina to check out the mountains, saltwater marshes, and so much more!

U.S. 21 Scenic Highway

Start in Beaufort and end in Hunting Island

Begin this scenic drive in Beaufort, South Carolina. Make sure to get your tires checked at a local shop before you begin to ensure safe travels, and then head out on the road. On this 18-mile drive, you’ll pass through saltwater marshes, beautiful lagoons, and a myriad of wildlife. The drive ends near Hunting Island State Park, so you can continue the fun with hiking, biking, and so much more.

May River Road

Start in Hardeeville and end in Brighton Beach

You’ll experience so many different sights on this drive. May River Road takes you through wetlands, through massive oak tree forest, and past historic homes, but it also takes you through the quaint beach town of Brighton Beach. Take your time on this drive to admire the vast properties of the homes and to shoot marvelous photos of little coves, boats, and sunsets. If you need to get out of the car, sign up for a walking tour in the Brighton Beach area.

Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway

Start in Fair Play and end in Gaffney

One of the longest drives on the list, the Cherokee Foothills scenic drive takes you through 122 miles of beauty. You’ll pass through the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the ancestral home of the Cherokee Indians. Spend quite a bit of time learning and exploring, if you can! Apart from the glorious mountain views, this drive will also take you through peach orchards, villages, parks, farmer’s markets, historical buildings, and so much more. The drive has everything you’re looking for.

Savannah River National Scenic Byway

Start in Seneca and end in North Augusta

Coming in at 126 miles long, the Savannah River National Scenic Byway is something you absolutely don’t want to miss. You’ll pass through charming Southern towns and view small churches that look like they’re straight out of A Walk to Remember. Truthfully, you’ll see so many churches you’ll wonder why it’s not called the Historic Churches Byway! This drive is best for spring and summer—plan accordingly.

Hilton Head Island Scenic Byway

Start in Okatie and end in Hilton Head

The last route on our list is probably one of the most breathtaking. Hilton Head Island Scenic Byway is much shorter than the previous drives, coming in at around 30 miles long, but it doesn’t lose out on any beauty. It’s a tour of the coast—keep the windows down to enjoy the refreshing salt air. Start on the mainland from Okatie, and you’ll finish with a loop around Hilton Head Island. Stop for a bit at a public beach to really take in the views. Don’t miss it!

 

April 1, 2020 0 comment
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Most Scenic Islands in Australia You Have to See

by ContributedPost March 25, 2020
written by ContributedPost

Australia has over 8,000 islands full of diverse ecosystems, natural beauty and wildlife you will hardly see anywhere else. You can go on a day trip to any of these islands from one of the big cities and take a break in gorgeous nature. If you want to experience these wonders, we’ve narrowed down the best and most scenic islands in Australia you have to see.

Hang out with quokkas on Rottnest Island

Not so far from Perth, Rottnest Island is one of the most popular destinations in Australia thanks to charming little marsupials — the quokkas. This island is a perfect getaway to be active since cars are not allowed and you can only move around on foot or by bicycle.

You will find 63 beaches on the Rottnest, with great spots for scuba diving and discovering marine life. Island Explorer bus is available for those who are not too keen on exploring the island by themselves. Also, if you come here with your kids, Just 4 Fun Aqua Park is a great family-friendly spot that will make sure everyone is having a good time.

Meet the cultural heritage of the Tiwi Islands

Some 62 miles away from Darwin, the Tiwi Islands greet the visitors with their cultural heritage. The Aboriginal people call this island home and you can learn more about their way of life on available guided tours. After the smoking ceremony to welcome you to their territory, you can observe Tiwi women weaving baskets and burial ceremony called the Pukumani.

Since fishing is the main activity here, you can join in and try your hand at catching some of the 40 fish species living here. If you are here from October to March, you will be here during the big festivities dedicated to Australian football. Tiwi Islands has some of the most devoted fans to this sport and everyone gathers in coffee shops and restaurants to watch a match.

Say ‘Hi’ to penguins on the Phillip Island

Phillip Island is the legendary wildlife reserve, some hour and a half away from Melbourne. Koala Conservation Centre is a great place to start meeting the animal life of this island. Just go on a walk through the bushland and keep your eyes open for koalas that live here. Another place to stop by the Seal Rock, where the largest population of Australian fur seals spends their days.

Also, when on Phillip Island, don’t miss its main attraction — the penguins. Everyone gathers around to see the Phillip Island Penguin Parade when these little penguins come out of the sea and waddle to their habitats in the dunes.

Dive by the volcano of Lord Howe Island

Lord Howe Island is not far from Sydney, but you can’t go there as you please. Since 300 people live here, the island allows only 400 visitors at the same time. This is a wonderful place to hike and explore biodiverse Australian nature full of mountainous terrain.

Endemic marine species live near the Ball’s Pyramid — a giant remnant of an old volcano rising from the Pacific Ocean. If you are more into hiking, join a tour to climb Mount Gower and have a breathtaking look of the whole area. Those who don’t want to hike or dive can go on a cruise on one of the glass-floored boats and discover Lord Howe Island that way.

Walk with a platypus on Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is just an aircraft charter flight away from Adelaide in South Australia. The main point to explore is the Flinders Chase National Park where you will find the Remarkable Rocks. These large rocks stand out against the surroundings because of the lively orange color coming from lichen covering their surface.

If you want to meet Australia’s platypus population, you can do that on your Platypus Waterholes Walk, which will take you around two hours to finish. Another popular sighting here is the sea lion colony, living in the Seal Bay Conservation Park. Kangaroo Island also has great restaurants, like Dudley Wines and Penny’s Restaurant, where you can take a break from your explorations and enjoy delicious cuisine.

Go glamping on North Stradbroke Island

North Stradbroke Island or Straddie, how the locals call it, is home to wild kangaroos and pearly beaches near Brisbane. This is also a popular spot to watch humpback whales from the Point Lookout from May to October. The island has two lakes you can hike to — Brown Lake and Blue Lake, with special significance to indigenous Quandamooka people.

This is truly a place to come and relax from the everyday city rush. Flinders Beach and Cylinder Beach are perfect for sunbathing and some water sports. If you want to stay on the North Stradbroke Island and enjoy its serene nature longer than a day, you can stay at one of the glamping sites.

Discover the beautiful nature of the Whitsundays Islands

Whitsundays Islands is a popular destination considering it’s located in the Great Barrier Reef Area near Cairns. It consists of 74 smaller islands, like Hamilton Island — a luxurious resort, and Daydream Island with its educational Living Reef to meet over 100 marine species.

The largest island here is Whitsundays Island with the famous Whitehaven Beach with sand so pure people say you can use it to brush your teeth. Another landmark of these islands is the Heart Reef, you can see on a helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef. This is also one of the favorite sites for proposals and many couples got engaged flying over the heart-shaped island.

All in all

Regardless of which of these scenic islands in Australia you choose to visit, you will be in for a treat. The continent has stunning flora and fauna that are especially present in remote reaches like its islands. For those looking to de-stress, these may be just the right destinations to relax and recharge the batteries.

March 25, 2020 0 comment
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Emotional Collecting Emerges as Top Trend at Miami Art Week

by Karen LeBlanc March 15, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

Collectors bring curiosity to a week of Miami art fairs making emotional connections and purchases.

The Design Tourist, aka Karen LeBlanc, at PULSE Art Fair in Miami Beach during Miami Art Week.

Miami Art Week takes place Dec. 3-8, 2019 with more than 80,000 collectors, curators and art enthusiasts attending art fairs anchored around Art Basel Miami Beach. The defining trend of this art fair frenzy is the concept of emotional collecting, art purchases propelled by personal connections with works.

Kazuyuki Takishita, an artist from Tokyo, Japan brings his works to PULSE Art Fair with Gallery Art Composition. His art was a PULSE Prize Nominee.

Kazuyuki Takishita, an artist from Tokyo, Japan brings his works to PULSE Art Fair with Gallery Art Composition. His art was a PULSE Prize Nominee.

With more than two dozen satellite art fairs throughout Miami Beach and Miami, fair fatigue can set in from sensory overload. PULSE Art Fair in Miami Beach aimed to be the antidote by creating a sensory soothing backdrop for contemporary art on exhibit. “Our theme is Calm in the Palms. We want to be a destination, not an event on the checklist. PULSE is not just an art fair. It’s an experience. I want people to come here, relax, feel the PULSE environment so that they can absorb the artists here to their fullest extent,” says PULSE Art Fair Director, Cristina Salmastrelli.

PULSE Art Fair, one of the first satellite fairs to join Art Basel Miami, celebrated its 15th year with a curatorial theme that stimulates the five senses. The fair’s signature scent by Aroma 360 permeated through the aisles as an invigorating infusion for fairgoers, who were invited to touch the artwork in many of the gallery booths. A soundscape of cicadas created by PULSE Project Artist, Sandra Mohs soothed and focused attention. 

Many of the works piqued curiosity and started conversations creating connections between the art and collector.  “Emotional collecting is emerging as a strong trend in the art world. The tendency is to think of traditional collections as governed by strict rules that focus art in a certain genre or style, whether it’s emerging artists, print or photography works. In the last five years, more people are coming to our fairs with a curiosity and no rules for collecting. That has led to emotional buying where someone walks in; they are struck in some way by a piece and they buy it. That to me is very exciting,” explains Salmastrelli. 

Meguru Yamaguchi, Out of Bound No. 77, 2018 is acrylic, plastic, epoxy, and UV paint on shaped wood board, presented by GR Gallery at PULSE Art Fair

 “We must reflect the population that lives here year-round and we need to offer an international experience. We have artists from five continents here, which I’m very proud of because we need to see how creativity in all corners of the globe. When I vet the galleries and artists that apply to exhibit at PULSE, I want to make sure I’m not giving you just one point of view but all,” Salmastrelli says.

Hyperrealistic charcoal drawings presented by Galerie ALB, Paris at PULSE Art Fair during Miami Art Week

Works with emotional resonance include the hyperrealistic charcoal drawings of Galerie ALB by French artist Nicolas Pegon. “It looks like a photo but it’s charcoal drawings from a French artist. We came here to present Nicolas who works in hyperrealism drawings for 10 years now. He takes people’s surroundings, people of his family and he does these mise-en-scene works,” says Anouk Le Bourdiec, gallerist, Galerie ALB.

The Rendon Gallery presented the Casspir Project by South African artist Ralph Zim including this outdoor installation, the SPOEK 1 covered in colorful beads at PULSE Art Fair during Miami Art Week

The Rendon Gallery presented the Casspir Project by South African artist Ralph Zim including this outdoor installation, the SPOEK 1 covered in colorful beads at PULSE Art Fair during Miami Art Week

South African artist Ralph Ziman makes a powerful statement about social justice and violence with The Casspir Project presented by The Rendon Gallery.  ​Ziman covered in beads a Casspir, an armored, all-terrain vehicle developed in South Africa in the 1970s. The Casspirs were used extensively by the South African Police, as well as the South African Defense Force, against civilians in urban township areas from the late ‘70s through early ‘90s during apartheid. Developers of these vehicles named them Casspirs, an anagram combining the name of the designer (the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, CSIR) and the end-user (the South African Police, SAP). 

 The Casspir Project is a multidisciplinary fine art exhibition that encompasses a variety of media including installation, photography, oral history, and documentary film in response to Apartheid’s effects on South Africa’s culture and community.

Sophie Derrick self-portrait on view during PULSE Art Fair. For more go to www.degreeart.com

Sophie Derrick self-portrait on view during PULSE Art Fair. For more go to www.degreeart.com

Artist Sophie Derrick plays with painting and portraiture using the body as both an object and subject.

Sophie Derrick self-portrait on view during PULSE Art Fair. For more go to www.degreeart.com

Sophie Derrick self-portrait on view during PULSE Art Fair. For more go to www.degreeart.com

She photographs the act of painting onto her skin then paints on top of the photographs, creating a layering of the image of paint and painted image, blurring the boundaries between the two.  

Port-O-Potty by Zeke Moores presented by Art Mur on view at PULSE Art Fair during Miami Art Week.

Port-O-Potty by Zeke Moores presented by Art Mur on view at PULSE Art Fair during Miami Art Week.

Port-O-Potty by Zeke Moores presented by Art Mur takes a disposable, dejected object taken from the street and places it into the artistic context of a gallery space. The artist uses metalsmith techniques to create his Port-O-Potty, usurping the traditional modes of mass production and the disposable materiality that we associate with these objects. Moores uses mechanized assembly line production and objects made to be thrown out and transforms them into a craftsman’s labor of love. 

PULSE Art Fair is my antidote to fair fatigue during the art-saturated week of shows and fairs because of its original programming, cutting-edge installations and sensory-rich experiences. I highly recommend this annual art fair during Miami Art Week.

For more on what’s new and next in travel and design, subscribe to The Design Tourist Channel and sign up for the blog email.

March 15, 2020 0 comment
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Bonnet House Museum & Gardens Celebrates its Centennial in 2020

by Karen LeBlanc March 15, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

 One of South Florida’s Oldest Homes Celebrates its 100th Anniversary

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Photo credit: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, an eclectic 1920s winter retreat that became a popular tourist destination in South Florida, celebrates its Centennial in 2020 with a yearlong events calendar.

The 35-acre subtropical estate in east Fort Lauderdale resides on what is one of the last examples of a native barrier island habitat in the region.

Grounds of the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Photo credit: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

The Birch/Bartlett family built the home in 1920 as an unusual amalgamation of art, architecture and ecology. Early settler Hugh Taylor Birch purchased the Bonnet House site in 1895 and gave the property as a wedding gift to his daughter Helen and her husband, Chicago artist Frederic Clay Bartlett, in 1919.

Helen and her husband, Chicago artist Frederic Clay Bartlett. Photo credit: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

The newlyweds started construction of Bonnet House in 1920. After Helen’s death from breast cancer in 1925, Frederic married Evelyn Fortune Lilly. In the 1930s, the couple embellished Bonnet House with the decorative and whimsical features that draw visitors from around the world.

Evelyn Fortune Lilly and Frederic Bartlett Photo credit: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

Frederic Bartlett was an accomplished artist producing works acquired by several respected collections. He also worked on mural projects with American architects including Howard Van Doren Shaw.  Frederic’s easel art is on display in the BonnetHouse studio and his murals and faux painting decorate the main house. 

Evelyn Fortune Bartlett began painting in 1933, and her work was featured in popular gallery exhibits in Boston, New York, and Indianapolis. Her works are today on display in Bonnet House’s Carl J. Weinhardt Gallery.

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, the eastern facade of the house. Photo credit: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

The Bonnet House’s main house is based on Frederic’s interpretation of Caribbean-style architecture. He designed the principal buildings including the main house, art studio, music studio and guest house. After Frederic’s death in 1953, Evelyn returned to stay at the property each winter. In the 1980s, she donated the property so the public could enjoy it.

Grounds and gardens of Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. Photo credit: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

“Throughout its remarkable 100-year history, Bonnet House has preserved the beauty, creativity and unique style of the Bartletts and Birches, and the early 20th-century lifestyle, with incredible authenticity,” said Patrick Shavloske, CEO of Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. “Not many landmarks in Florida have reached 100 years ― it is truly amazing how this estate and property have stood the test of time. It is a pleasure to help today’s community connect with the Bartletts’ architectural, artistic and environmental legacy.”

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

Tucked away from the development along Fort Lauderdale Beach, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is today accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. It was listed on the National Register of Historic places in 1984 and declared a historic landmark by the City of Fort Lauderdale in 2002. In 2004, the National Trust for Historic Preservation included Bonnet House in its Save America’s Treasures program.

The grounds have witnessed 4,000 years of Florida history with human activity on the site dating back to 2,000 B.C., evidenced by a shell midden left by the Tequesta people. Other archaeological evidence lends to the fact that the grounds were one of the first sites of Spanish contact with the New World.

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

There are five distinct ecosystems are present on the lush subtropical grounds. These include the Atlantic Ocean beach and primary dune, a freshwater slough, the secondary dune which includes the house site, mangrove wetlands, and maritime forest. The grounds also are home to a Desert Garden featuring arid plantings, a hibiscus garden, and the main courtyard, which is planted with tropical vegetation. Because Evelyn Bartlett was a passionate orchid collector, the estate’s Orchid Display House includes various blooming examples which are regularly rotated.

Many migratory birds make Bonnet House their home, as well as year-round birds indigenous to Florida wetland and coastal areas. On occasion, manatees seek shelter in the estate’s Boathouse Canal; and monkeys can be spotted on the grounds.

The yearlong 100th Anniversary celebration includes a variety of events, programs, workshops, tours and classes including watercolor, calligraphy and drawing workshops among other activities that capture the spirit and history of this unique property.

The marquee event takes place on Saturday, April 25, 2020 ― the Centennial Soirée presented by The Haller Foundation, which will include live art, performances, unique photo moments, cocktails, dinner and more at the Bonnet House Estate. 

Bonnet House is located at 900 North Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 and is open for tours Tuesday–Sunday from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. For more information, visit www.bonnethouse.org.

For more on what’s new and next in travel and design, subscribe to The Design Tourist Channel and sign up for the blog email.

 

 

March 15, 2020 0 comment
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Miami Art Week Highlights: Artist Interviews and Art Collecting Trends

by Karen LeBlanc March 13, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc
Join The Design Tourist Karen LeBlanc as she takes you on a whirlwind tour of Miami Art Week, hitting all the major art shows and fairs to check out the latest trends in art collecting and interview artists doing cutting edge work. From Art Basel, the marquee event, to Miami Art Week’s many satellite shows, The Design Tourist takes you along for a global dose of creative inspiration. #ArtFair#Art#ArtBasel#MiamiArtWeek#Paintings#Sculpture#ArtShow#ArtTVShow#Miami

Subscribe to The Design Tourist for a global dose of inspiration as host Karen LeBlanc brings you what’s new and what’s next in design, art, architecture and home interiors along with celebrity designer interviews, celebrity home tours and stay in style tours of boutique hotels. Subscribe to The Design Tourist for a global dose of inspiration as host Karen LeBlanc brings you what’s new and what’s next in design, art, architecture and home interiors along with celebrity designer interviews, celebrity home tours and stay in style tours of boutique hotels.

March 13, 2020 0 comment
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Spring Time: 5 Road Trip Safety Tips for Your Next Adventure

by ContributedPost March 7, 2020
written by ContributedPost

Going on a vacation is a luxury for many people, due to the high costs of life and lack of free time. However, there are ways to relax and see different places that don’t have to be costly or time-consuming, if you plan things properly. A road trip is a great way to reconnect with people you love while being adventurous and finding unique ways to have fun. So, if you’ve been meaning to go on a road trip, here are some safety tips that will help you have a time of your life.

Make a consistent plan

Being spontaneous is a big part of every road trip, however, if you want to feel calm, it’s important to make a consistent plan, at least for the first part of your trip. That means, planning the first stop and accommodation, especially if you’re traveling during the holiday season, where a lot of hotels and apartments are booked in advance. Therefore, try to book one accommodation at least, and it should preferably be the one where you plan to make the first stop. That way, you’ll feel more relaxed because you won’t have to worry about that aspect of your trip.

Pack all the things you might need

Some people tend to pay more attention to their packing list, and they’re usually the ones who have almost every single thing one might need on a trip (hygienic products, bandages, etc.) Now, if you’re more of a laid back type, then you know how hassling can it be to pack a traveling bag. But, that doesn’t mean you should make an effort: going on a road trip requires a certain degree of resourcefulness, so if you’re struggling to organize, then create a packing list that will give you a clear overview of what to bring. Medicines, some extra clothes, a pillow, and some snacks are the basic things that you’ll need, so make sure to pack those before anything else.

Get your car in a top shape

You don’t need a luxurious car to have fun, but having an all-functioning car can save you a lot of trouble while on a road trip. Therefore, it’s essential to make sure that your car is alive and well before leaving your home, so even if there are no obvious malfunctions, you should still take your car to the shop to be sure that everything’s fine. Additionally, you should learn how to change a flat tire and do minor repairs on your car, especially if you’re going to be driving through the wilderness where there are no many urban spaces that offer temporary lodging and car repair.

Your car safety also matters

Getting your car in top shape is crucial, but you should also pay attention to safety, so getting a car insurance quote prior to your trip will ensure a happy and carefree adventure. Insuring your vehicle might seem unneeded at first, but it will help you be in peace in a situation that requires you to be alert all the time. Sometimes, accidents happen for no reason, so insuring your vehicle is the best way to prevent, and eventually, minimize the damages.

Don’t forget to get some rest

Driving for multiple hours can take a serious toll on your health, for many reasons. Hence, getting enough sleep will make you focused and alert which are the main requirements if you want to have a safe ride. Making frequent stops to rest and replenish the lost energy is always a better option than driving without taking a break. Similarly, make sure to keep yourself entertained throughout the ride, mainly if your fellow travelers are sleeping. Listening to the radio or talking to yourself will decrease the chances of dozing off, but in order to be safe, it’s best to take a break during the night, to avoid distraction and exhaustion.

Be a mindful and considerate driver

Getting enough sleep and being focused are the main requirements for every driver. But, if you want to have a truly relaxed trip, you should make sure to be considerate of other drivers as well. Sharing driving duties with your fellow passengers will help you minimize tiredness and anxiety. Also, if you’re driving, then be sure to do so carefully, without succumbing to road rage and impulsivity. Keeping your GPS updated will help you stay on track throughout the whole trip, and in case you want to be extra sure, then bring a paper map in case your GPS device gets broken.

Spring is the perfect time to change the environment and get on the road in your four-wheeled pet. Still, it’s important to surround yourself with fun and upbeat people, so you’ll be able to enjoy yourself to the fullest.

This post was authored by Lana Hawkins, smoothdecorator.com

 

March 7, 2020 0 comment
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3 of the Best Bucket List Spring Vacation Ideas

by Mallory Knee February 29, 2020
written by Mallory Knee

Spring is the best time to take a vacation. Read these bucket list spring

Spring is the perfect time to cross some items off your bucket list. All the snow has melted, and the sun is shining again. Why not plan an adventure you’ve always wanted to try? Below are three of the best bucket list spring vacation ideas. You won’t regret going on any one of these fabulous trips. In fact, you’ll make memories that’ll last you a lifetime.

Cruise to the Galápagos Islands

This spring, consider taking a cruise to the Galápagos Islands. Located in Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands are truly spectacular and will take your breath away at every turn. Taking a cruise to the Galápagos Islands is the best way to experience everything they have to offer. For starters, you can glide along the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. You’ll be amazed at how beautiful and transparent the water looks from the comfort of your cruise ship. Many cruise lines in Ecuador have genuinely spectacular cruise ships and boats of all sizes that can accommodate any group. You’ll always have something to do, too; there are plenty of fun things to do on and off the boat. First-time cruisers should remember to pack all the appropriate equipment and be ready for possible seasickness. As long as you’re prepared, there’s no reason you shouldn’t have the time of your life.

Visit the City of Love

Nothing is more beautiful than Paris in the springtime. One of the best bucket list spring vacation ideas is to visit the Eiffel Tower. The history of the structure in front of you will amaze you. Bring some tissues for your trip, because you’ll be moved to tears when you think about all the people who have stood where you are. After you visit the Eiffel Tower, you can further explore the City of Love. Splurge a little at some of France’s most famous boutiques—buy yourself a chic outfit that’ll certainly impress your friends when you return. Don’t forget to try some authentic French cuisine on your vacation as well. You’ll have the time of your life watching the flowers blossom as you sit outside a quaint French bistro.

Take a Trip to New Zealand

New Zealand is one of the most breathtaking countries in the world, so you should definitely consider adding this destination to your bucket list this spring. One of the reasons you should wait until spring to visit New Zealand is because the country is the perfect spot for outdoor activities. You can hike along the beautiful mountaintops and experience the view in a completely unique way. You can also go kayaking on one of the country’s gorgeous lakes or see the mountains below as you skydive. Anyone less adventurous should still visit New Zealand to interact with the locals. New Zealand residents are some of the kindest people in the world, and they’ll make you feel right at home. So, if you’re looking to go on a unique vacation this spring, give the beautiful country of New Zealand a try.

 

February 29, 2020 0 comment
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Holiday Perfection for Adults With Hotel Hacienda de Abajo

by Olha Kipiani February 26, 2020
written by Olha Kipiani

Some people want their vacation to be original and memorable; others are looking for unique natural surroundings and the ability to watch the stars at night. Then there are those, who want a relaxing and luxurious experience with no disturbances and those, who want to come back home telling unbelievable stories about the place they have visited. The team of Luxury Lifestyle Awards can proudly announce that there is a place that combines it all — Hotel Hacienda de Abajo, this year’s winner in the category of The Best Luxury Hotel in the Canary Islands, Spain.

Hotel Hacienda de Abajo boasts a superb location on the west side of the La Palma Canary Island, in the historic center of Villa y Puerto de Tazacorte. This Spanish municipality is lucky to get the most hours of sunshine a year.

Offering 32 beautifully decorated rooms and suites today, Hacienda de Abajo will also surprise the guests with its original history. This used to be a XVII century sugar estate, recognized by the Canaries’ Government as an integral part of the Historic Heritage of the Canary Islands. Thanks to this fact, Hotel Hacienda de Abajo received a rare status of an “Emblematic Hotel”.

The first thing that meets the traveler’s eye is the unique location: a beautiful coast and turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean, magnificent gardens with lush vegetation, and unbelievable starry skies that persuade people to tell them their most intimate desires. In this magical place, it feels like the ocean connects with the sky and the “sea” of banana plants to form a haven of perfect harmony and tranquility.

The resort consists of four buildings, spread about an exotic garden of the former farm. The new buildings have been harmonized with the original design of the sugar farm, which was carefully restored in 2010-2012 by the architect María del Carmen. It is notable that the dominance of sugarcane was replaced, at the end of the 19th century, by that of banana plants.

The guests of Hotel Hacienda de Abajo are surrounded by some of the world’s most incredible art objects: tapestries with French and Flemish pieces from the 16th-18th centuries; Chinese sculptures, furniture and porcelain from the Tang to the Qing dynasties; European furniture from the 17th-19th centuries; delicate religious carvings from the 16th-19th centuries, a valuable art gallery with works from the 15th-20th centuries, and more. This is yet another reason why the esteemed experts of Luxury Lifestyle Awards believe Hacienda de Abajo is a unique and outstanding resort, worthy of special recognition.

The guests of Hotel Hacienda de Abajo will not only enjoy a calm and relaxing vacation, thanks to the resort’s “adults only” concept, but will also be amazed by all the luxury that surrounds them, both natural and created by man.

From the lavish rooms to an atmospheric outdoor pool with trust-based snacks (guests log in their purchases themselves); from a completely mesmerizing Bath House (Spa) to an opportunity to celebrate a special event in “La Capilla”, an unconsecrated chapel, equipped with audiovisual resources, — the professional team of Hotel Hacienda de Abajo has about every trick up their sleeve.

A perfect vacation should definitely be complemented by perfect food. For this purpose, the exquisite El Sitio restaurant offers gourmet dining at the world-class level. The guests have a chance to learn about the cuisine of the Canary Islands from the best, while enjoying the incomparable views of the Atlantic Ocean. A vacation at Hotel Hacienda de Abajo is definitely an experience, in which nothing is missing.

About Luxury Lifestyle Awards

Luxury Lifestyle Awards is a global award selecting, recognizing, celebrating and promoting the best luxury goods and services all over the world.

The goal of the company is to connect people with the best of luxury. LLA has evaluated more than 10 000 various goods and services in 400 categories from 60 countries and analyzed the results to give you a TOP list of the best of the best in the world. Such world-renowned brands as Chanel, Dom Perignon, and Ferrari were proudly named winners. The victory brings companies status and recognition, global promotion and exposure to an entirely new market of customers.

For more information, please visit: https://luxurylifestyleawards.com/

 

February 26, 2020 0 comment
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The Best Travel Destinations for Art-Lovers

by Mallory Knee February 21, 2020
written by Mallory Knee

Embark on an artistic adventure that will inspire you to create your very own masterpieces with our guide to the best travel destinations for art lovers.

From primitive cave paintings to perplexing pointillism pieces, art has captivated and inspired people since the beginning of human history. Humans have always followed their desire to create something out of nothing. Inspiration can come from anywhere, but a few places lend themselves to artistic aptitude a bit more than others. This guide to some of the best travel destinations for art-lovers will allow you to follow in the footsteps of some of the world’s greatest visionaries, and it may even inspire you to create some art of your very own.

Paris, France

Photo credit: The Design Tourist

Unsurprisingly, Paris is one of the best travel destinations for art-lovers. Home to some of the most renowned classical painters in history, Paris is a hub of culture and creativity. One of the most popular attractions for art aficionados is the Louvre Museum. This world-renowned art museum features priceless pieces from prominent painters. By far, the most popular pieces on display in the Louvre are da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo statue, which dates back to 100 B.C. Also located in Paris is the Musée d’Orsay, which houses the largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist pieces in the world and many masterpieces by Vincent van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, and Edgar Degas. You can view additional Impressionist paintings at the Musée Marmottan Monet, which houses an impressive collection of masterpieces by Claude Monet, including many of his famed water lily paintings.

Chicago, Illinois

Photo credit: The Design Tourist

For a creative getaway a bit closer to home, consider taking a trip to the Windy City. Chicago may seem like an unlikely destination for an artistic escape, but the city is actually home to a wide array of artistic attractions. The Art Institute of Chicago is one such attraction that entrances visitors with works by both classical and contemporary artists. This expansive museum is home to many famous works, including Grant Wood’s American Gothic, Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks, and George Seurat’s pointillism masterpiece A Sunday on La Grande Jatte. Chicago is also home to the Museum of Contemporary Art, a haven for modern masterpieces from around the world. This museum’s works are slightly more experimental, inviting intriguing conversations regarding society as we currently know it. The city itself is also teeming with interesting art installations, such as Untitled by Pablo Picasso, which stands in Daley Plaza, or the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture—better known to locals as simply the Bean—in Millennium Park.

Rome, Italy

Photo credit: The Design Tourist

Rome is a romantic city simply busting at the seams with art and culture. This historic city is home to a variety of awe-inspiring art museums, and the city itself comes alive with stunning sculptures and architecture around every corner. As the birthplace of Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci, it stands to reason that Rome would be one of the most artistically significant locations in the world. Trevi Fountain and the Sistine Chapel stand as testaments to the skill and dedication of these classical artists; they’re absolute must-sees during your next Roman holiday. When in Rome, be sure to make a stop in Vatican City, which is conveniently located within Rome itself. Here you can visit the Vatican Museums and wander through the immense collection of renowned Roman sculptures and Renaissance-era masterpieces.

February 21, 2020 0 comment
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Sip on Sunshine: Most Beautiful Wineries to Visit in the U.S.

by Mallory Knee February 21, 2020
written by Mallory Knee

Not much is better than sipping on wine with a great view. If that’s what you’re dreaming of, head out to some of the most beautiful wineries in the U.S.

Imagine this: you’re with your best friends; the sun is shining on your shoulders; laughter tinkles around you; you’ve got a delicious glass of wine in hand and more on the way; and your view features rolling hills and an ocean as the backdrop. Seems like perfection, doesn’t it? The truth is, that could be you and your loved ones if you plan a few summer trips around the most beautiful wineries to visit in the U.S. Natural beauty and wine are an effortless pair!

Duckhorn Vineyards, Napa Valley, CA

Probably the most popular wine region in the States, Napa Valley is home to over 400 wineries. The airy estate of Duckhorn Vineyards offers some of the most alluring vineyard views, and its wraparound veranda gives you the shade you need to enjoy the wine. When you visit, you’ll know you’re getting a great view with even better wine—their Merlot Napa Valley Three Palms Vineyard 2014 was named the top wine of 2017.

Scribe Winery, Sonoma County, CA

Cali is full of gorgeous wineries, so we had to include another California staple on this list. Scribe Winery in Sonoma is only a thirty-minute drive from Napa, so you can easily visit both of these in one trip. This winery provides you with a blanket upon arrival so that you can grab a grassy spot on the estate. Tastings are by reservation only, so make sure you book in advance to try out their scrumptious chardonnays, rieslings, and pinot noirs.

Keswick Vineyards, Keswick, VA

A wedding at Keswick Vineyards is far from unheard of. The winery is located right on the Monticello Wine Trail, so add it to your list when you head to this area. Surrounded by lush forests and verdant hills, it’s one of the most beloved wine spots in the region. Grab your significant other and visit Keswick Vineyards—who knows; this could be the place you have your own wedding!

Marks Ridge Winery, Willamette Valley, OR

A stunning mountaintop retreat, Marks Ridge Winery will have you coming back for more before you even leave. Find it at the base of the Cascade Mountain range, where you can enjoy a delicious sipper at 1,200 feet. If you visit in the summer, grab a glass of gewürztraminer and enjoy the classical or acoustic live music.

Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, Finger Lakes, NY

You’ll fall in love with this winery before you even try the wine—the property is that gorgeous. Here you’ll get a taste of that perfect view we talked about earlier: rolling hills, views of Keuka Lake, and an enchanting atmosphere. Grab a glass of sparkling wine and enjoy the bubbles while you take in the illustrious scenery.

The Cottage Vineyard and Winery, Cleveland, GA

Last on the list is the Cottage Vineyard and Winery in Georgia. The state is home to consistent beauty no matter where you turn, and that’s exactly what you’ll get here. Mountains and immense natural beauty surround the tasting room. It’s a smaller winery, but as they say, “Wine tastes better at the cottage.”

These are just a few of the many breathtaking wineries in the States. If you plan a trip to any of the wineries on this list or around the world, drink responsibly and make sure you understand how alcohol affects your body, especially if you’re heading to a higher altitude. Stay safe, and enjoy the views!

February 21, 2020 0 comment
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Around The World In 80 Days With Interior Trends For The Keen Traveler

by ContributedPost February 19, 2020
written by ContributedPost

Like any keen traveler, the chances are that you’ve received all manner of inspiration from the countries you’ve visited. Local delicacies may have impacted your cooking styles, while general lifestyle choices from overseas may well have snuck into your everyday routine. If you’re anything like most wanderlusters, you’re even in the habit of bringing overseas styles back home to make the most of.

From clothing to interiors, nothing beats amalgamating all your best travel experiences. Interior designs, especially, can reach new heights if you bring a touch of your adventures. And, that’s what we’re going to look at here.

Of course, not every country will light up your interiors with the gusto you’re likely looking for. In some cases, you may even find that those AirBnB designs are much the same as they would be back home. In some cases, though, you’re guaranteed to want to replicate the interiors of your travel dreams. In fact, interior designers from all over the world are finding certain countries an irresistible inspiration draw right now, and we’re going to consider the best to help you start incorporating similar styles. 

India

We couldn’t talk about overseas style inspiration without mentioning India. This colorful and exciting cultural hub could literally see you enjoying home designs like no one else. Visiting one of the many fantastic markets on offer could certainly add color to your home like little else. Equally, hand-crafted lanterns, mirror frames, and more are guaranteed to incorporate a touch of the exotic at every turn. Even better, these home-made Indian wares are typically more affordable than interiors are ever likely to be back home. Whether you go all out with bright Indian colors in every room, or freshen things up with some authentic saris, you can bet this focus will work wonderfully for unique interiors you can relish. 

Mexico

While we’re on the subject of colors, Mexico is another fantastic hub for interior inspirations, if a little less obvious than its Indian counterpart. Once home to the iconic Frieda Kahlo and other such vibrant artists, Mexico is rife with flowers, fruit, and art, all applied in a passionate dance with life and death. We’re talking colors splashed on your walls, outlandish art deco prints that draw the eye from anywhere in the room, and again, hand-woven blankets etc. from authentic Mexican merchants. With Mexican designs often looking amazing alongside the white, minimalist trends of our home country, you might even find that you can incorporate Mexican features into the designs you’ve got for an unbeatable splash of the exotic. 

Australia

Australia, too, is coming up fast in the design ranks and offers a wide range that’s guaranteed to liven up any home interior. While perhaps less outlandishly transformative than the other options mentioned, this location rich in terrain and texture can bring just that to any interior venture. From aboriginal art to designer rugs, you can hardly go wrong with Australian additions. Pair these with desert-esque roses and sandy tones, and you’re looking at a serene home haven that reminds you of all your favorite Australian adventures in one simple place. 

Portugal

Sometimes, even unlikely countries can take the interior helm, and Portugal is definitely doing that at the moment. Despite, or perhaps because of recession, Porto streets are currently crawling with art exhibitions built by young entrepreneurs and designers. In fact, design has reached such heights here that the country has widely been hailed as the ‘New Berlin.’ If you’re looking for groundbreaking styles, you certainly needn’t look any further than the insanely affordable wares sold across Portugal. Natural fibres and trendy tiles are also top of the agenda with style like this, and that’s something that any keen interior designer can surely get behind right now. 

South Africa

 


From a country with relatively subtle design leanings to one that’s a little more outlandish, South African interiors are also well worth your attention at the moment. Led by tribal art and ceremonial masks, anyone getting stuck in here is guaranteed to add a touch of travel lust into an otherwise clean-cut home finish. And, what avid explorer doesn’t wish to do that? Again, natural fibres and hand-crafted wares are sure to play a large part in designs like these, and they’ll look just the thing when mixed with iconic African bold prints. Even if you aren’t willing to give up your entire interior to any one country, incorporating these features after your next South Africa trip could work wonderfully of reminding you how amazingly rich this country can be. 

Spain

Spain also deserves its place on this list, with cultural hubs like Barcelona deserving particular attention. Home to La Sagrada Familia among others, this Spanish hotspot is one big lesson in how to impress with your designs. The rest of Spain, too, could prove useful inspiration, with its focus on terracotta tiles, architectural craftsmanship, and paired back furniture focuses. Earthy colors are also all the rage here, including bright yellows on your walls and, of course, those terracotta clay tones. Wrought iron also tends to make an appearance and is guaranteed to look amazing on your staircase or accessories for a full-on Spanish style makeover. 

A final word on wanderlust inspired interiors

Home comfort really doesn’t get better than finding ways to fit your travels into your makeovers. This alone could stop wanderlust from biting so hard when you finally return after all those fantastic adventures. 

You could either keep things simple by sticking with one country that gets your interior juices flowing, or you could steal your favorite features from each culture for an interior fusion unlike any other. Either way, you can bet that you’ll soon find yourself with a home better suited to your tastes than ever before.

To get started here, simply keep an eye out when you’re exploring. Look for iconic style themes in your country of choice and, whatever you do, make sure to stock up on those market-based interior accessories when you get the chance.

 

February 19, 2020 0 comment
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6 Great Tips to Turn Your Ordinary Road Trip Into an Unforgettable Luxury Adventure

by ContributedPost February 13, 2020
written by ContributedPost

While for many people a road trip and luxury are the complete opposites, there are those who are willing to sacrifice their passion for the top-class comfort for the unique experience of touring interesting places, taking detours, and exploring different points of interest. However, now we can get those two vacationing ideas to work together and offer ultimate advice for a luxury road trip experience.

Map the route to luxury

Setting the journey objectives is what makes or breaks a luxury road trip. In all countries, there are areas that are more or less luxurious, so you may need to stay away from small towns and backcountry roads. On the other hand, regions with abundant natural beauties often invest heavily in high-class small-town accommodation and dining, so there’s no definite rule. If you venture to places with rich country traditions such as France or New Zealand, you might be surprised by what a quiet B&B or a gourmet farm-to-table restaurant has to offer.

Choose stylish accommodations

Unless you rent a top-line RV coach with full beds, you’ll need comfortable accommodations at the end of each adventurous day. While upscale downtown hotels are always a good choice for sleeping in style, make your trip more authentic by booking high-end local lounges or villas in advance. Local hotels and guesthouses aren’t just bursting with rustic flavor but can become your home base for meeting locals and exploring hidden gems. As an exciting alternative to traditional accommodations, try glamping – glamorous camping. Glamping tents are fully furnished with en-suite bathrooms and lighting, as well as many amenities your backpacking tent from Cabela’s can only dream about.

Choose a luxury tourer…

Unless you already own a thoroughbred road cruiser, you should rent or buy one that is going to ensure you’re traveling with both comfort and style. Your family sedan is great for trips to the mall, and even day-trips into the next county, but for a multi-day road vacation, you need a spacious tourer with plenty of legroom, capable climate control, leather seats, a big infotainment/navigation display, and a quality sound system. If a new car is beyond your current budget, consider a used model with the luxury features you’re looking for. If you’re vacationing with your family, choose a top-line SUV like Subaru Outback, Volvo XC90, or if you’re in for a bit of off-roading, a Ford Expedition.

…And tune it up

Even if you’ve chosen a sturdy and trustworthy vehicle for your road trip, you should always do some preventive checks before you roll out. Replace the AC filter and windscreen wiper blades, and take it to your mechanic to make sure the fluids are topped off and there are no leaks. While at it, they can also check the tyres and recommend getting a new set if they show signs of wear. While significantly increasing both the smoothness and safety of your ride, a new set of tyres won’t set you back much, especially since now you can order almost any brand at online dealers that often throw in a discount or cashback for purchasing a full set. The more time you spend preparing your car, the less chance for a breakdown or accident that can ruin your deluxe vacation on wheels.

Avoid fast-food restaurants

While there was the time when Howard Johnson’s motor lounge chain offered fast food with style, these days there’s nothing luxurious about a big bucket of chicken and fries. The good news is that you can always find top eateries where reservations sell out quicker than hotcakes. Give the advantage to restaurants that depend on local produce and authentic regional cuisine. In the end, nothing rounds up a prime dining experience than chatting with the chef to learn a bit more about the local recipe varieties. Since your choice of restaurants depends on your road trip route, make sure you book in advance.

Leave something to a chance

An important part of having a luxurious feel on your vacation is having options and liberty not to stick to the itinerary. Planning everything down to the minute can only leave you stressed if things don’t go the way you wanted, so leave your options open. If you hear about a must-visit place by chance, don’t miss the opportunity to check it out, as some of the best vacation moments often happen when you turn right, when your navigation says left. On the other hand, make sure your trip is seasoned with out-of-the-box activities that boost up the anticipation such as ballooning, whitewater kayaking, joining a chocolate making class, big game fishing, etc.

While in the past road trips and luxury vacations had little things in common, with all the automotive and hospitality advancements, today we have a wide choice of options that cater to a new generation of road-trippers. These people value independence and freedom of choosing their own way, and to many of them, time wasted at airport procedures is better spent visiting one or two landmarks more at a leisurely pace, or shall we say speed.

 

About the author: Mike Johnston is an avid freelance writer and blogger. He is a regular contributor to numerous blogs and online magazines, where he writes about home improvement (his specialty!), interior design, family life, green living and many other topics. Mike’s goal is to create interesting and compelling content and then share it throughout the online community.

February 13, 2020 0 comment
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New Times Square Art Attraction: A Curated Digital Billboard Gallery

by Karen LeBlanc February 7, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

ZAZ10TS Brings Art and Nature to Times Square with “ZAZ Corner”  as a Curated Digital Billboard Gallery

Visitors to Times Square in New York City can check out a new outdoor art exhibit, free and always open to the public.  “ZAZ Corner” is a new digital gallery showcasing artwork on an office building at 10 Times Square. The new LED billboard gallery presents rotating images that show a variety of stunning digital artwork.  The “Zaz Corner” billboard, located at the corner of 41st Street and 7th Avenue, is a new cultural initiative from ZAZ10TS that works to bring art to the area. 

ZAZ Corner will feature different artists and motifs on a monthly basis. ZAZ10TS kicks off the program in February with new media digital work based on a stylistic “nature” theme curated by Lightbox. The February program brings artistic greenery into the neighborhood and is designed to juxtapose the calming nature images with the surrounding concrete structures and hustle-bustle of Times Square.

“The sounds and sights of Times Square can sometimes be overwhelming to the senses,” says Tzili Charney, founder of ZAZ10TS. “We want to offer a bit of respite and serenity with beautiful artwork featuring nature and springtime colors in the middle of the often-dreary winter season.”

“Lightbox is thrilled partner with ZAZ10TS as we share a mutual interest in bringing our corner of the city to life and in turn, creating a space for talented digital artists to share their inspiring works,” adds Daphné Jouanneteau, CEO of Lightbox.

Lightbox, an experiential events venue with a digital art and tech programs, will draw upon its expertise to curate a unique editorial selection of new media digital artworks in collaboration with ZAZ10TS. Working with a mix of emerging and established digital artists, the captivating images will be brought to life on ZAZ Corner in a large LED screen.

With the launch of ZAZ corner, ZAZ10TS looks forward to working with artists, organizations, universities and cultural institutions to bring a wide selection artwork to the ZAZ corner Digital billboard and hopes to engage the public with visuals that are different from the urban environment in Times Square.

“Art brings people together and we are thrilled to work with artists and partners to bring strikingly beautiful digital artwork to a public space and see the impact on the community” continues  Limei Wang, director of ZAZ10TS.

ZAZ10TS  is the vision of  Tzili Charney that creates gallery space on the building’s façade, lobby interior, and immediate environment to showcase talent ranging from established artists to young and emerging talent, as well as special needs artists, as part of its programming. In addition, ZAZ10TS partners with other organizations nationally and internationally to support art. For more information on partnerships and submissions, please visit zaz10ts.com/zaz-corner

 

February 7, 2020 0 comment
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Aurora Borealis, Iceland
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Unique Things to Do in Iceland

by Mallory Knee January 31, 2020
written by Mallory Knee

Are you preparing for your vacation to Iceland? There are so many amazing things to see and do, and we introduce a few of the unique things to do in Iceland.

Iceland is, unfortunately, one of those countries people may forget about—that is, until they see all the amazing pictures. Iceland is one of the best places to visit for anyone who loves nature. For example, you can see Iceland’s water, hiking, and beach attractions. In addition, with all the outdoor activities, there are many opportunities to relax after the adventures of the beautiful country. Let’s get into the unique things to do in Iceland.

Immerse Yourself in the Culture

Midsummer sunset in Reykjavik

Beautiful midsummer sunset in Reykjavik in Iceland

Throughout your trip in Iceland, there will be several opportunities to take tours that will help you experience Icelandic culture if you want, or you can wander throughout the cities. After all, not all those who wander are lost, right? One way to get a taste of the culture is by strolling throughout Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík. There are plenty of festivals, shops, restaurants, and more.

Additionally, you can always unwind with cafes and even yoga studios—that’s why yoga retreats in Iceland have become so popular. Plus, let’s be honest, after a long day of hiking and experiencing the culture, we could all use some yoga. Another way to experience the culture is by learning about Iceland’s history by visiting sites and museums and going on tours to learn about Norse mythology and the Vikings.

Experience Nature in a Place That’s Unlike Any Other

Gullfoss waterfall in Iceland

Gullfoss waterfall in summer Iceland

Most people want to visit Iceland because they love outdoor activities and they want to experience Iceland’s scenery firsthand. For the record, it’s even more amazing than it seems. There are a few common themes for scenery to see for anyone visiting Iceland, and that is water, hiking, and beaches.

For water attractions, we recommend seeing

  • The Blue Lagoon
  • Dynajandi Waterfalls
  • Gullfoss Waterfall

For hiking, we recommend

  • Snæfellsjökull National Park
  • Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
  • Asbyrgi Canyon

For beaches, we recommend

  • Rauðasandur
  • Djúpalón
  • Reynisfjara 

And while these lists are only a handful of the options available, there’s also abundant wildlife you may be lucky enough to see. A unique animal that you can see in Iceland is the Icelandic horse, which is the same breed that the Vikings used. In addition, there are some animals that are Icelandic natives, such as arctic foxes, puffins, and whales.

Experience Something Unique

Blocks of ice on the beach in Iceland.

Blocks of ice on the beach in Iceland, Europe.

If the previous ideas weren’t unique enough, there are still more opportunities to try something new in Iceland. For instance, you can dive or snorkel between continents, or hike inside a glacier such as Langjökull. Too cold for you? Then maybe you’ll like going to a volcano instead. Of course, we didn’t forget one of the biggest attractions in Iceland: Aurora, better known as the northern lights! There’s nothing quite like them; the skies really are as green as the photographs.

As you can tell, there’s an abundance of unique things to do in Iceland. From adventurous opportunities to cultural immersion, there’s something for everyone. Regardless of if you’re looking to do a little hiking, see the beaches or waterfalls, or even do some yoga, we know you’ll love this trip!

January 31, 2020 0 comment
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Architect Paul Rudolph’s Walker Guest House Replica on View at Palm Springs Modernism Week

by Karen LeBlanc January 31, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

Architect Paul Rudolph’s Walker Guest House Replica on View During Palm Springs Modernism Week

Walker Guest House Replica, Location: Sarasota FL, Architect: Paul Rudolph

A nearly exact, partially furnished, demountable replica of the Walker Guest House will be sold in situ in Palm Springs, California in conjunction with Palm Springs Modernism Week in Heritage Auctions’ Online Design Auction, closing Feb. 25.

The Sarasota Architectural Foundation (SAF) commissioned this example of Paul Rudolph’s Walker Guest House (also known as “Cannonball House”) in response to the destruction of several structures designed by the architect.

Walker Guest House Replica, Location: Sarasota FL, Architect: Paul Rudolph

Originally built in 1952 in Sanibel, Florida, the present example was constructed from the original Rudolph plans, and initially installed on the grounds of The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art where it was open for tours from 2015 to 2017. Countless visitors have toured the interior and exterior of the 576-square-foot house to learn about Rudolph and discover the principles of the Sarasota School of Architecture movement. The structure was thoughtfully constructed with the intention to be portable, and in 2018, it was reinstalled in Palm Springs, where it was a feature of “Modernism Week,” the city’s biannual festival celebrating mid-century modern architecture and design.

“The SAF, whose mission is to educate about, advocate for and celebrate Sarasota’s mid-century modern heritage, undertook this project as an educational initiative,” SAF Chairman Dr. Christopher Wilson, Ph.D., said. “Recognizing that a majority of Sarasota School structures are private residences not normally accessible to the public, the SAF wanted to expose the forward-thinking principles of the ‘Sarasota School’ to a wider audience by constructing and exhibiting this replica.”

The Walker Guest house was Rudolph’s first design executed independently, and is considered among his most significant projects. Rudolph built numerous other influential residential buildings in the Sarasota, Florida region, including his so-called Umbrella House (1953) and Cocoon House (1950), designed with Ralph Twitchell. In 1997, Rudolph donated much of his archive to the Library of Congress, which helped establish the Library’s Center for Architecture, Design, and Engineering. By ensuring that his work was publicly accessible, he acted to see that his work could be preserved even if the original structures were not.”

January 31, 2020 0 comment
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Urban Art Destination: The Wynwood District, Miami

by Karen LeBlanc January 26, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

 

The Design Tourist aka Karen LeBlanc in the Wynwood District, Miami

During the week of Art Basel Miami Beach,  the city is electric with creative energy. All around the Wynwood district, street artists are at work painting buildings with new murals for Wynwood Mural Fest.

Street artists drawing the attention of TV cameras as they paint fresh murals in the Wynwood District of Miami for Mural Fest.

Wynwood Walls is like a street art museum, free and open to anyone who wants to walk around and admire the murals. The concept began as a vision for outdoor art space by developer Tony Goldman, founder of Goldman Properties.

Street artist painting a fresh mural at The Wynwood Walls

His concept started with six painted buildings that he commissioned artists to paint in the area which eventually became the core.

Mural at the Wynwood Walls in Miami

Over the next decade, the painted walls proliferated. Each year during Art Basel Miami Beach, new murals are unveiled creating a destination of urban art.

The Design Tourist videographer filming a street artist painting a fresh mural for mural fest in the Wynwood District, Miami

I met up with Zack Lawrence, production manager for Wynwood Mural Festival on opening day as vendors were setting up tents and food trucks in anticipation of huge crowds later that evening.

Street artists painting a new mural at the entrance to mural fest in the Wynwood District, Miami

A team of street artists were at work painting a mural at the entrance to the festival grounds, one of many fresh murals coloring the buildings of the Wynwood District. 

The Wynwood District in Miami

“The Wynwood arts district is an area of Miami that was founded originally by artists. They are bringing this graffiti and mirrorless culture into the city in a major way. They’ve purchased a lot of the properties in the area. They own a lot of the warehouses and they collaborate with a lot of the businesses around this area to create this ethos that exists in this neighborhood. It attracts people from all around the world every single year to paint large murals. A lot of these people are world-famous painters and muralists,” Lawerence says.

Mural in the Wynwood District in Miami

“We’re here for the art and we’re trying to plant a flag in the neighborhood that really makes us a mainstay. We want to continue to put this event on, as well as other events to represent the entire collective of artists and businesses in the neighborhood,” Lawerence says.

Mural in the Wynwood District in Miami

During Art Basel Miami, some of the biggest names in graffiti and street art come to the Wynwood District to paint walls that are divided into zones curated by art experts. I met up with one of the curators, Gleason LeRoy, who selected street artists to paint walls in his zones. “So, the zones are actually different collectives that actually have been painting their own zones every year. We came together as one for the Mural Fest to kind of take back the neighborhood from everybody else. It’s not about competing with each other, but to unify and really give it that artists feel,” LeRoy says.

Mural in the Wynwood District in Miami

Art Basel Miami, as the anchor of Miami Art Week, serves as the marketing season for street artists who travel from around the world to paint murals for Mural Fest and capture the attention of more than 200,000 visitors filling the streets.

The Wynwood Walls in Miami

“A lot of these people come with different stylistic choices in different ways that they communicate their message of art,” Lawerence adds.

The Wynwood District in Miami

Art Basel Miami brings together art in all its iterations and the Wynwood District offers that unique opportunity to experience creativity outside the bounds of traditional art fairs and galleries. It’s an outdoor art museum that is free and always open to the public.

For more on what’s new and next in travel and design, subscribe to The Design Tourist Channel and sign up for the blog email.

 

 

 

January 26, 2020 0 comment
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Art Basel Miami Beach Brings Public Art to All Corners of the City

by Karen LeBlanc January 19, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

After Art Basel Miami Beach is Over, Art Installations Remain as a Testament to the City’s Creative Soul

“Pieces of Me” Sunreef Yachts by artist Alexander Mijares commissioned for Miami Art Week

Art is everywhere during Miami Art Week as dozens of installations, pop-ups, parties and galleries compete for attention alongside more than two dozen satellite art fairs anchored around Art Basel Miami.  During the first week of December, more than 80,000 collectors, curators, and art aficionados converge in Miami for this A-list event that also draws celebrities looking to see and be seen. Smart marketers try to capture the attention of influencers, celebrities and other high-profile personalities with VIP events and installations that capitalize on this creative energy.

“Pieces of Me” Sunreef Yachts by artist Alexander Mijares commissioned for Miami Art Week

Sunreef Yachts collaborated with Miami Based Artist Alexander Mijares to wrap the hull of the 70 Sunreef Power catamaran in an artwork titled, “Pieces of Me.” Sunreef Yachts designs and manufactures of luxury sailing and power multihulls.

Miami-born artist Alexander Mijares

The company showcased its art yacht at the Fontainebleau Marina. Miami-born artist Alexander Mijares’ signature style is defined by culturally vibrant works from a colorful perspective. The self-taught artist finds inspiration in the dynamic energy of both Miami and his Cuban and Spanish roots.

Les Lalanne at The Raleigh Gardens Courtesy SHVO © Douglas Friedman

At the Raleigh Gardens staged the largest-ever public outdoor exhibition of works by the late French artist duo, Claude Lalanne and François-Xavier Lalanne. Architect Peter Marino designed the new beachfront tropical garden along with noted Miami landscape designer Raymond Jungles.

The Raleigh Gardens is part of a $200 million master plan for The Raleigh hotel and span throughout three properties: The Raleigh, South Seas and Richmond. The Garden is free and open to the public through late February with 32 statues on display in more than 25,000 square feet of garden space.

Les Lalanne at The Raleigh Gardens Courtesy SHVO © Douglas Friedman

Real estate developer and investor Michael Shvo and his partners commissioned the works of the late Claude Lalanne (1924-2019) and François-Xavier Lalanne (1927-2008), the artistic duo known together as Les Lalanne. The opening of the Raleigh Gardens marks the latest step in the restoration and renewal of the iconic Raleigh Hotel, along with adjacent properties, The Richmond and South Seas, located on Miami Beach’s famed Collins Avenue.

Pink Beasts Art Installation on view at Design Miami. The Pink Beasts and pink hammocks can be seen around the Miami Design District.

Throughout The Miami Design District, pink sisal sloths hang from trees as a public art installation, Pink Beasts, the creation of London-based Mexican designer Fernando Laposse. The Miami Design District commissioned Pink Beasts, an art installation that explores materials and techniques native to Mexico. Laposse collaborated with textile designer Angela Damman and local artisans in Sahcabá, Yucatán.

For more on what’s new and next in travel and design, subscribe to The Design Tourist Channel and sign up for the blog email.

January 19, 2020 0 comment
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Art that Atones South Africa’s Apartheid Past

by Karen LeBlanc January 15, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

Miami Art Week 2019 Meet the Artist: Experience the Art Series

The Artist: Ralph Ziman

The Idea: Humanitarian Art That Reconciles South’s Africa’s Apartheid Past 

The Art: The Casspir Project

The Design Tourist, aka Karen LeBlanc, standing in front of an 11-ton Casspir military vehicle covered in glass beads by South African artisans at PULSE Art Fair during Miami Art Week.

An overarching theme to the creative works that intrigued me during Miami Art Week was about a hyperawareness of social issues. Artwork with a confessional quality that offered insight into the artist’s personal politics resonated deeply. 

 At the entrance to PULSE Art Fair, I encountered an armored all-terrain vehicle covered in colorful beads by South African artist Ralph Ziman. It was both disturbing and oddly beautiful—an emotionally jarring juxtaposition. The beaded tank is called a Casspir, used by the South African Police and Defense Force against civilians during apartheid. Ziman named it  ​SPOEK 1 and it weighs 11-tons and is covered in 70 million glass beads, arrayed in panels of traditional patterns​ by African artisans from Zimbabwe and the Mpumalanga province of South Africa, including women of the Ndebele tribe, known for their craftsmanship.

SPOEK 1 ​ and The Casspir Project was presented by The Rendon Gallery at Miami Art Week, December 5-8, 2019 as part of the special projects section at PULSE Art Fair.

SPOEK 1 anchors Ziman’s traveling series, The Casspir Project, presented by The Rendon Gallery. Ralph Ziman’s multidisciplinary fine art exhibition encompasses installations, photography, oral history, and documentary film, examining the human rights issues of apartheid, the over-militarization of police, and state violence. 

His art is about making amends with South Africa’s apartheid history by reframing emblems of violence and oppression into art objects. “In Africa, there’s a belief that when you touch something, you take away its power. By covering the Casspir with beads, it became non-threatening. People could come up, put their hands on the tank and by doing so, take away its power to oppress,” Ziman explains.

The Casspir has been transformed into a work of art for ​SPOEK 1, ​ its surfaces covered in 70 million, elaborate and brightly-colored glass beads, arrayed in panels of traditional patterns​.

The name “Casspir,” is an anagram combining the name of the designer (the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, CSIR) and the end-user (the South African Police, SAP). Ralph, working with African artists.

Glass beads cover AK-47s as part of The Casspir Project by South African Artist Ralph Ziman. His works were on view at PULSE Art Fair during Miami Art Week.

Ziman also embellishes weapons with colorful glass beads as social and geopolitical commentary.  “We originally started with the AK 47 as a response to the arms trade coming into Africa. I was constantly seeing photographs in the press of Somali rebels and pirates. There were AK 47’s everywhere. I thought that it would be great to do this reversal of the arms trade where we make non-lethal, beautiful weapons in South Africa and ship them to the rest of the world. The root of the project is its humanitarian mission to support the families of South African artisans. With every work that sold, the proceeds would amount to a month of living expenses for an entire family,” Ziman says.

The Casspir Project by South African Artist Ralph Ziman also comprises installation, photography and film.

He employs 10 artisans full time working out of his studio in Johannesburg. He discovered these artists selling beads and wire sculptures to tourists on the streets of the city. “They were hustling to make a living. We wanted to create an environment where we could pay everybody a living wage and pay for their kids to go to school,” Ziman explains.

 The Casspir was built during the apartheid as a vehicle for the South African police force to patrol and control neighborhoods. “When I left South Africa in the early eighties, it was the height of apartheid, policing involved a bunch of Casspirs with white cops sitting on top with automatic weapons. The Casspir was developed by like the white African military, so while it’s South African, it was very much a white invention,” Ziman remembers.

Photography that is part of The Casspir Project by South African Artist Ralph Ziman. This image shows two Casspirs covered in glass beads.

 He bought the 1981 police Casspir from a scrap yard and rebuilt it to factory standards. It took more than 100 artisans three years to cover the tank in colorful beads. “This project is about owning up to our history of apartheid and the Casspir and transforming that,” Ziman adds.

Ralph Ziman was selected for the special project section of the 2019 edition of PULSE Art Fair where he will present ​SPOEK 1, an 11-ton decommissioned, apartheid-era Casspir vehicle that has been restored and reclaimed

The South African government decommissioned Casspirs after the apartheid leaving their hulls in scrap yards as a relic of their tumultuous past. The United States bought several to use during the Iraq war years, r​ebranded as the MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected)​. ​After the war, these Casspirs were given free of charge to local United States police departments under the Pentagon’s 1033 Program. 

 “I felt an urgency to do this project because I started seeing these Casspir vehicles showing up on the streets of America, in the news, in protests such as Black Lives Matter. I wanted to tell our joint history with the Casspir,” Ziman says. 

Ziman says The Casspir Project aims to subvert the narratives of violence and oppression by celebrating South Africa’s creativity and community.

The Casspir Project was presented by The Rendon Gallery at Miami Art Week

Ralph Ziman was born in 1963 in Johannesburg, South Africa, and currently lives and works in Los Angeles, California.

Learn more about Ralph Ziman’s work and highlights from Art Basel Miami Beach, in new episodes of The Design Tourist filmed during Miami Art Week, airing soon. 

For more on what’s new and next in travel and design, subscribe to The Design Tourist Channel and sign up for the blog email.

 

January 15, 2020 0 comment
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Highlights from Design Miami/

by Karen LeBlanc January 4, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

Design/Miami continues to be one of my favorite satellite shows during Miami Art Week for its immersive installations and focus on design and art objects. Located next door to Art Basel Miami Beach, the anchoring event of Miami Art Week, Design Miami/ held its 15th edition with 33 galleries and 14 Curio presentations from 13 countries. The design show is a refreshing break from the fair fatigue of white-walled booths. Instead, you’ll find works presented in conceptual spaces.

Todd Merrill Studio is an exhibition-based program representing an international group of established and emerging contemporary artists, each sharing an underlying drive to push the materials that comprise their works to their absolute aesthetic limits. Their dynamic, unique, and frequently groundbreaking pieces stand at the forefront of today’s highly coveted collectible art and design.

As a marketplace for collectible design, Design Miami/ invites international design galleries to present curated exhibitions of museum-quality furniture, lighting and objets d’art dating from advent of Modernism (circa 1900) to the present day.

Friedman Benda’s solo installation by acclaimed multidisciplinary artist Daniel Arsham breaks away from the traditional constraints of a fair to transform the space into part domestic setting and part kunstkammer. Arsham developed and realized a fictionalized environment that is in dialogue with his home’s modernist architect, Norman Jaffe.

In my opinion, the show’s standout installation comes from Friedman Benda, a living space framed by glowing walls and furnished with pieces by artist Daniel Arsham.

Daniel Arsham’s Objects for Living presented by Friedman Bena, New York in a room installation with glowing walls.

The immersive installation breaks away from the traditional art fair constraints to transform the space into an imagined domestic setting. 

Sofa by artist Daniel Arsham on view at Design Miami/

The project began when Arsham developed a collection of objects in dialogue with his Long Island home and expanded it into a fictionalized environment.  In the first hours of the fair, Friedman Benda sold its entire presentation by artist Daniel Arsham.

FENDI presents Roman Molds by Kueng Caputo

Another standout conceptual space was Roman Molds presented by FENDI, a collection from Zurich-based design studio Kueng Caputo. The conceptual space features ten architectural works crafted from Fendi’s soft leather into a structural material, giving it solidity and strength. The designers tried to push the material to look and feel different than usual expectations of leather by molding and forming it into seemingly weight-bearing materiality. 

FENDI presents Roman Molds by Kueng Caputo

Louis Vuitton presented Objets Nomades, a collection of limited-edition, collectible furniture in yet another gallery booth inviting visitors to experience the pieces in the context of a living room.

Louis Vuitton presented Objets Nomades

This ongoing series of limited-edition, collectible furniture is imagined by some of the most creative designers of our times. 

Louis Vuitton presented Objets Nomades

The show’s entrance exhibit encapsulates the overarching theme for the entire event: the creative synergy between contemporary design, traditional craft and sustainability. 

The Design Tourist, aka Karen LeBlanc, and show co-producer Chris Fletcher filming Pink Beasts at Design Miami/ for new episodes of The Design Tourist airing soon

I’m greeted by large pink sloths hang from the ceiling, Pink Beasts, an art installation by London-based Mexican designer Fernando Laposse. Several of his Pink Beasts were on view at Design Miami/ while many more were scattered around The Miami Design District as part of a 2019 Design Commission.

Pink Beasts, an art installation by London-based Mexican designer Fernando Laposse. The pink landscape of Pink Beasts has been achieved by dying the sisal fibers with the natural dye made from cochineals, a tiny parasitic insect that is native to central Mexico and grows on the Opuntia cactus, commonly known as the prickly pear. Cochineals produce the world’s brightest natural red dye and were used by the Aztecs to color everything from textiles to buildings. The cochineals used in Pink Beasts are from an organic farm in the mountains of Oaxaca and the dyed sisal fibers have been harvested from agave plants in the Yucatán. The entire installation was handmade by a community of Mayan weavers of Sahcabá.

With Pink Beasts, Fernando explores materials and techniques native to Mexico, collaborating with likeminded textile designer Angela Damman as well as local artisans in Sahcabá, Yucatán. The artisans worked together to create creatures crafted of thousands of long, pink sisal tassels. Through the Design District, these hairy pink slots are suspended through the trees and arches. Sculptural hammocks also hang between palm trees, created in collaboration with Damman, featuring long, unbraided sisal manes, updating an otherwise traditional Mayan design.

“The Pink Beasts Project also empowered a community of women in the Yucatan of Mexico to actually make wages off of this. It took over 70 people to make this project become a reality. It’s also about empowering the artisans, ” says Luis Concepcion, who was hosting visitors at the exhibit on behalf of the artist.

By interacting with Pink Beasts at Design Miami/ and in the Miami Design District, visitors are reminded that contemporary design and traditional craft and techniques are not mutually exclusive—there are sustainable and organic ways to produce contemporary design.

The Design Tourist, aka Karen LeBlanc with the Balenciaga Sofa by Harry Nuriev in collaboration with Balenciaga and Crosby Studios. The companies and designers teamed up to spread the message of sustainability through collectible furniture made from unused and damaged Balenciaga clothing.

Balenciaga and Crosby Studios team up to spread the message of sustainability through collectible furniture made from unused and damaged Balenciaga clothing. The Balenciaga Sofa by Harry Nuriev in collaboration with Balenciaga draws inspiration from an overstuffed recliner and is made from unsellable clothing and off-cuts from the Balenciaga warehouse.  Nuriev is the founder of Crosby Studios. A booth spokesperson tells me Nuriev was very calculated in the placement of each article of clothing in the sofa stuffing.

For Design Miami/ 2019 (December 3-8), Balenciaga has collaborated with artist, architect, and furniture designer Harry Nuriev to advocate for environmental accountability by creating a functional artwork using discarded Balenciaga clothing.

“He had a very thoughtful artistic approach to using the clothing as if drawing or painting to give the sofa a patchwork effect.  The sofa is very eco-friendly and sustainable. The cushion casing is made of a disposable polyethylene rather than vinyl or bad plastic,” she explains. 

The Balenciaga sofa is a proof of concept communicating ideals about sustainability and consumerism through art. 

The beauty of botany is the big idea captured in the resin furniture of artist Marcin Rusak.

Sarah Myerscough Gallery presents White Perma by Marcin Rusak The multidisciplinary artist Marcin Rusak continues to explore the beauty of botanical arrangements, this time bound in off-white resin in the latest variation of his Perma furniture collection.

Rusak’s White Perma collection is represented by Sarah Myerscough Gallery. To create his Perma furniture collection, Rusak bounds dried flowers in off-white resin in and slices the material lengthwise to reveal petals, stems, and buds. Their anatomical intricacies on view appear like veins in marble or cavities in fossilized stone. 

Marcin Rusak’s sculptural furniture pieces of flowers in white resin

“The pieces have a lovely narrative because Mark comes from a family of flower growers. His grandfather ran a flower business so he grew up around these wonderful greenhouses. I think his art evokes a feeling of decay or melancholy,” says Freya McLeavy, Sarah Myerscough Gallery.  Each piece is a sculptural work as well, playing with the idea of form and function.

Design finds that caught my eye and captured my imagination at Design Miami/ include a collection of sculptural chairs by Functional Art Gallery.

Functional Art Gallery’s stand will reinterpret the Abstract Gallery from Peggy Guggenheim’s groundbreaking 1942–47 gallery Art of This Century, placing contemporary artists in conversation with the historical setting.

The Berlin-based gallery was established by Benoît Wolfrom and Javier Peres in 2018 to promote young contemporary designers to an international audience.

The gallery’s mission is to help shape the discussion between art and design and to further increase the presence of cutting-edge design within the larger art world.

Functional Art Gallery works with artists and designers who push the line between aesthetics and purpose, form and function, perception and intent.

The Nalgona chair by Chris Wolston presented by The Future Perfect, made me smile for its humorous take on the human form expertly designed as functional furniture.  The woven chair is crafted of 100% Colombian Mimbre (Wicker) harvested in the Colombian Amazon.

The Nalgona chair by Chris Wolston presented by The Future Perfect

Wolston says the human form of his chair riffs on the iconic shape of the plastic Remax Chair, ubiquitous through Colombia, and the playful humanoid quality found in pre-Columbian ceramics.

Nalgona chairs/ Chris Wolston, 2019/ Colombian mimbre (wicker) and steel/ Courtesy of The Future Perfect

 

Each year, Design Miami/ commissions several art installations tied to its curatorial theme. This year’s theme was “Water” an extension of its on-going focus on the earth’s elements.

The art installation Roots called attention to “alarming changes in nature and our environment” including disappearing forests and wildlife, polluted air and oceans, rising sea levels are rising, and an increase in extreme weather phenomena. Delta Air Lines and the Sacred Space Miami presented Roots by Atelier Marko Brajovic, curated by Ximena Caminos and produced by Alberto Latorre. The idea behind the art is to stimulate cultural and artistic responses to environmental change. 

The Roots pavilion is a self-supporting aluminum branching system wrapped with fine custom-made ropes and was designed by a parametric software mimicking the natural growth of a mangrove rooting system. In the middle of the pavilion, a large deck is used as a collective space for ceremonies and for three traditional Amazonian hammocks from which visitors can experience the immersive documentary SACRED COCA.

For more on the artist and highlights from Design Miami/, stay tuned for new episodes of The Design Tourist filmed during Miami Art Week. 

For more on what’s new and next in travel and design, subscribe to The Design Tourist Channel and sign up for the blog email.

January 4, 2020 0 comment
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The iPorn Art of Michael Seri

by Karen LeBlanc January 2, 2020
written by Karen LeBlanc

Miami Art Week 2019 Meet the Artist: Experience the Art Series

The Artist: Michael Seri

The Idea: Social Commentary on Our Addiction to Smart Devices and Social Media

The Art: iPorn Dress

Miami Art Week blurs the lines between art, design and fashion for new creative expressions that start conversations, precisely the point of provocative art. Perhaps nowhere was it more evident than in the works of artist Michael Seri and his iPorn dress on view at Art Basel Miami Beach that raises questions about our addiction to technology and social media. Michael designed and fabricated the art installation out of clear plastic embellished with broken iPhone screens and Sim cards with iPorn written in LED lights across the chest. I found Michael in an aisle at Art Basel where he was drawing a crowd with America’s Next Top Model contestant Keenyah Hill who was posing for pictures in the iPorn dress. In this marquee fair known for its blue-chip and high brow art, Michael Seri’s iPorn dress was a refreshing dose of originality and creative edge. I asked him about the big idea behind his art.

Artist Michael Seri and America’s Next Top Model Cycle 4 Keenyah Hill and The Design Tourist, aka Karen LeBlanc at Art Basel Miami

“Artists hold a mirror up to society.  I’m commenting on what I see around me. This dress is not about pornography at all. It’s about being addicted to our iPhone, Michael says.  He wants the iPorn dress to be a conversation starter about how we are addicted to social media and manipulate it for our own self-serving purposes. The shattered iPhone screens that embellish the dress are emblematic of our self-absorbed culture. 

“Society is too wrapped up in social media and this need to become famous. People are willing to do anything, no matter how cheesy it is, to sell their soul for the attention, the likes, the followers. That not art. It’s not creative,” Michael says. His gallery, Detritus Designs LLC, based in  Brooklyn (Dumbo), New York features idiosyncratic objects that reflect his life experiences and Dada philosophy merging art, design, and fashion in an ironic platform that is both vernacular and open to interpretation. 

He deconstructs and re-interprets found objects to represent the cycle of death and re-birth. His art reveals the history of the original object yet places it in a cultural context that is both vernacular and 21st century. “My art creates a distinct but unresolved dialogue that is ironic and open to interpretation,” Michael says.

Art that goes beyond an aesthetic appeal to make a statement, provoke a thought or pose a question is what captures my imagination and challenges my intellect. It’s that type of art that I’m most drawn to at a time when I believe introspection is urgent and necessary. Art forces the question, the thought, the self-examination. Michael’s iPorn dress is both social commentary and ironically Instagrammable porn, drawing countless selfies and smart device videos at Art Basel. At some point the crowds were so thick around the model, Michael commented that he might get thrown out of Art Basel for creating such a disruption. But then again, isn’t that a fundamental purpose of art? Disruption—calling attention and creating a buzz to challenge the status quo.

For more on the artist and highlights from Art Basel Miami Beach, stay tuned for new episodes of The Design Tourist filmed during Miami Art Week. 

For more on what’s new and next in travel and design, subscribe to The Design Tourist Channel and sign up for the blog email.

January 2, 2020 0 comment
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Feel the Magic: Best Places for a Winter Wedding

by Mallory Knee January 1, 2020
written by Mallory Knee

If you’ve always dreamed of a magical wedding in the snow, take time to peruse some of the best places for a winter wedding! Beauty abounds at these locations.

Some people dream of a summer wedding with bright flower petals and hot sunshine. Others crave a white winter wedding full of fluffy snow and deep shades. There’s no wrong choice, but this time of year, it seems like there’s no better backdrop for a ceremony than powdery snow, twinkly lights, and distant mountain peaks. These enchanting details make a winter wedding seem quite like perfection. If that seems like something you’d swoon for, take a look at some of the best places for a winter wedding!

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Wyoming has tons of winter wedding-friendly destinations. One of the best states for a serene and quiet winter wedding, Wyoming offers a lot of adventure with equal moments of relaxation. Jackson Hole is the place to go for fabulous skiing around the wedding day, and it offers a myriad of housing and resort choices for people looking to host a wedding big or small.

Banff National Park, Canada

Wild landscape mountain range view, Banff national park, Canada

Wild landscape mountain range view, Banff national park, Alberta, Canada

Is Canada is the perfect choice for winter weddings, or what? Almost anywhere in Canada is a terrific choice for the wedding of your dreams. You can go to Quebec City for city wedding vibes, or you can go more remote in Alberta. However, Banff National Park made our list because you’ll get the Canadian Rockies as a backdrop. The park features tons of glorious winter wedding venues as well, such as the castle-like Fairmont Banff Springs hotel, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Canmore’s A Bear & Bison Inn, and so many more!

Taos, New Mexico

Church in Taos

Church in Taos, New Mexico

For those of you looking for a smaller destination wedding that still has personality, turn to Taos. The area’s rich history and vibrant culture make this location much more than the ski town it looks like at first glance. Take your wedding photos in the mountains and enjoy the quaint nature of the area. Your family members can stay at a pueblo-style house, and you could even have your wedding in the backyard of one. Taos won’t cease to amaze you.

Zürich, Switzerland

 

Nightscene in Zurich

Nightscene at the banks of river Limmat in Zurich

Although this is definitely a pricier option, Zürich is a whimsical place for a winter wedding. If you and your partner love skiing, then a destination wedding here—with a honeymoon following—will check off all your boxes. Stay at one of the uber-luxe resorts and enjoy the area’s magical winter backdrop. If this area doesn’t quite fit your dreams, peruse the many other castles in the country—you might just find your perfect spot!

Telluride, Colorado

Snowy winter in the foothills of the Alps

Snowy winter in the foothills of the Alps

Colorado has many places to throw a lovely winter wedding, but Telluride made this list for its small-town feel, luxury accommodations, and absolutely breathtaking views. But those aren’t all the reasons to have a destination wedding in Telluride. The things that will draw you to this location most are all the possibilities. A rehearsal dinner at a mountaintop restaurant? A wedding in a remote area of the mountains with a sleigh ride? Not much is prettier than a Telluride wedding, no matter what the season, but winter holds a certain magic.

Stowe, Vermont

Iconic New England church in Stowe town at autumn

Iconic New England church in Stowe town at autumn in Vermont, USA

Last on our list is the bewitching town of Stowe. This location is a favorite fall wedding destination, but winter is just as magnificent. Here you’ll find mountains for photo ops, quaint town centers for sleigh rides, and charming covered bridges. For those of you who want a big wedding, the Stowe Mountain Resort will accommodate, but for more intimate weddings, the Cliff House Restaurant will do just the trick.

Happy planning, lovebirds!

January 1, 2020 0 comment
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The Ceramic Scenography of Artist Andrea Mancuso

by Karen LeBlanc December 30, 2019
written by Karen LeBlanc

Miami Art Week 2019 Meet the Artist: Experience the Art Series

The Artist: Andrea Mancuso

The Idea: Stimulate Curiosity by Juxtaposing the Familiar with the Unexpected

The Art: Metamorphosis

In my Meet the Artist: Experience the Art Series from my visit to Miami Art Week, I introduce you to the work of Italian Designer Andrea Mancuso.

The Design Tourist, aka Karen LeBlanc, and the artist Andrea Mancuso who created the art installation Metamorphosis at Design/Miami

One of my favorite shows during Miami Art Week is Design/Miami for its immersive experiences, booths that are each a mise-en-scène, placing art objects and furniture into context. Design/Miami is the only satellite show that is laser-focused on design. There, you will find art, sculpture and themed environments such as the immersive scenography, Metamorphosis presented by Perrier-Jouët.

Metamorphosis presented by Perrier-Jouët and designed by Andrea Mancuso on view at Design/Miami

I’ve never seen anything like it—part sculpture, part art installation. The room is covered with ceramic flower blooms painted in the golden tones of the French champagne house’s vineyards. Milan-based Italian designer Andrea Mancuso created the art installation and tells me that I’m actually looking at 11,000 mounted ceramic pieces evoking the concave shape of the champagne bottles he saw maturing in the cellars of Perrier-Jouët.

Artist Andrea Mancuso, co-founder of the Analogia Project, working on his art installation Metamorphosis for Design/Miami at the Alessio Sarri Ceramic workshop.

“So of course, Champagne ages in bottles instead of barrels and they’re stacked on top of each other in the cellars, creating a beautiful pattern.  I use that pattern making irregular shapes and I use the color palette of the vineyards during the harvest,” says Mancuso. He is the co-founder of the Analogia Project, a multidisciplinary practice that uses design as a means to distort reality and to provoke emotional connections with the viewer. 

“I used ceramic for the possibilities of colors that I could achieve here. There are 11,000 pieces of ceramics in 15 different shades,” Mancuso says.

concave ceramic circles that mimic the bottoms of champagne bottles readied to be painted and installed in a landscape that evokes the Maison Perrier-Jouët vineyards at harvest time.

Metamorphosis is Maison Perrier-Jouët’s eighth collaboration with the fair and draws inspiration from the Art Nouveau movement’s unconventional observations of nature. “Loyal to the ethos of Art Nouveau, Mancuso’s work for the House unites traditional craftsmanship with modern technology and is infused with Maison Perrier-Jouët’s vision of reinvented nature”, explains Axelle de Buffévent, Style Director at Maison Perrier-Jouët.

Metamorphosis, interprets the Art Nouveau heritage of the Maison Perrier-Jouët merging art, history and design.

Mancuso created the space to evokes the Japanese concept of Engawa -a similar concept to a sunroom – that serves as a communal gathering space. His aim for all who entered the art installation was to stimulate curiosity and interaction by intercepting the familiar with the unexpected. 

Andrea Mancuso designed a collection of champagne glasses created with the Berengo Foundation in Murano – each inspired by the six characteristic Cuvée’s of Maison Perrier-Jouët and showcased at Design Miami/.

Based on conversations with Maison Perrier-Jouët Cellar Master Hervé Deschamps, Mancuso also designed six glasses, one for each cuvee that describes the notes and the characteristics of each champagne.

Andrea Mancuso designed a collection of champagne glasses created with the Berengo Foundation in Murano – each inspired by the six characteristic Cuvée’s of Maison Perrier-Jouët and showcased at Design Miami/.

The glasses were crafted by Murano-based glassblowers Fondazione Berengo using the demanding practice of lost-wax casting, an ancient technique of Art Nouveau artists. The same meticulous method was used for the champagne bowl that recalls the iconic anemone flower designed for the House in 1902 by Emile Gallé, a Master of Art Nouveau.

Italian ceramicists Alessio Sarri and Nuevoforme helped create the installation of glasses displayed in six alcoves on stands made using lost-wax casting.

The collection of glasses is displayed across six alcoves, presented on stands made using lost-wax casting. Italian ceramicists Alessio Sarri and Nuevoforme also worked on the alcove display and glasses.

“The Perrier-Jouët non-vintage cuvees are captured with the unbridled growth of blooming nature, with roots and leaves climbing up the stem to embrace the bowl of the glass. Whereas developed nature is interpreted with elegant, structured lines to evoke the Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque cuvees,” observes Hervé Deschamps.

Italian designer Andrea Mancuso, of Analogia Project, created Metamorphosis in the spirit of Art Nouveau. Mancuso’s work for the House unites traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.

Metamorphosis is one of several collaborations with designers and design institutions featured at Design/Miami, a global forum bringing together collectors, gallerists, designers, curators, and critics.  The show features the world’s top galleries presenting museum-quality exhibitions of the twentieth and twenty-first century furniture, lighting, and objets d’art. Design/Miami is held alongside the Art Basel fairs in Miami, Florida, each December and Basel, Switzerland, each June.

Learn more about the artists and art objects featured at Design/Miami in new episodes of The Design Tourist filmed at Miami Art Week.

For more on what’s new and next in travel and design, subscribe to The Design Tourist Channel and sign up for the blog email.

 

 

 

 

 

December 30, 2019 0 comment
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Brandalism: The Art of Antonio Brasko

by Karen LeBlanc December 29, 2019
written by Karen LeBlanc

Miami Art Week 2019 Meet the Artist: Experience the Art Series

The Artist: Antonio Brasko

The Idea: The Acculturation of Graffiti, Street Art and Fashion

The Art: Brandalism

Artist Antonio Brasko with The Design Tourist, aka Karen LeBlanc, and videographer and show co-producer Chris Fletcher filming his Brandalism collection for a new episode of The Design Tourist show airing soon.

At the Spectrum Miami, I was drawn to the booth of artist Antonio Brasko and his collection Brandalism, a cheeky mashup of luxury labels and logos with low brow objects such as paint spray cans and boom boxes.

Chanel Boombox by Antonio Brasko, part of his Brandalism collection on view at Spectrum Miami.

Brasko is one of more than 500 leading contemporary artists who showcased their works during the five-day art show and his work stands out for its cultural statement. I asked him about his ideas behind Brandalism.

Supreme Louis Vuitton Paint Spray Cans by Antonio Brasko, part his of Brandalism collection on view at Spectrum Miami

“Brandalism started in 2006. I started using spray cans as the canvas for my work. The collection is inspired by a study about how these fashion brands have tapped into the world of graffiti and street art and they are reappropriated. This is my commentary on these brands. I’m showcasing a different perspective,” Brasko says.  

Gucci Boxing Gloves by Antonio Brasko, part of his Brandalism Collection on view at Spectrum Miami

Brasko reintroduces the ideology of vandalism and fashion from an experimental perspective. His fusion of style incorporates spray paint, streetwear and luxury branding. “I want Brandalism to resonate with the culture right now. It’s kind of a mashup of what’s going on in culture, art and fashion and how those cultures collide. My work is a commentary on how street art and luxury brands have intersected so they are almost like one right now,” Brasko says.

Brandalism paint spray cans by Antonio Brasko on view at Spectrum Miami

Brasko started as a graffiti artist with a background in graphic design having produced creative for brands including Adidas, Jaguar, Land Rover, Nike, Intel, Paris Saint-Germain, Wu-Tang Clan, Reigning Champ and more. He started his Brandalism collection with his Spray Paint Art Series and works from his creative design studio in Portland, Oregon.  Using classic Montana spray paint cans, Brasko covers each luxury brand logos that represent a bridge between the worlds of street art and luxury brands.

Gucci Boxing Gloves by Antonio Brasko, part of his Brandalism collection on view at Spectrum Miami

I asked him how he picks his luxury brands and objects to create his art.  “A lot of the brands have crossover into the world of street art or graffiti. That’s the first criteria when selecting mediums to work with. The second criteria is the color palette. It’s also a study on color. I create a spectrum of colors that tells the story,” Brasko says.

Brandalism Collection on view at Spectrum Miami

Brandalism is conceptual art and it strikes me as a bit of pop psychology, an examination of our cultural obsessions with brand names and attachment to logos as an expression of self-worth. Brasko’s art is provocative because it draws your own thoughts and interpretations about the current cultural moment.

He interlaces emblematic brands and their signature colors with cans and other objects as the basic means of graffiti art conveying its vandalistic ideals and the freedom that it proclaims.

Learn more about the art of Antonio Brasko in new episodes of The Design Tourist filmed at Miami Art Week.

For more on what’s new and next in travel and design, subscribe to The Design Tourist Channel and sign up for the blog email.

 

December 29, 2019 0 comment
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Highlights From Red Dot Miami and Spectrum Miami

by Karen LeBlanc December 28, 2019
written by Karen LeBlanc

With dozens of art fairs and shows Miami Art Week competing for my attention, it’s impossible to attend and experience every art, fashion and entertainment event. Shows extend from Miami Beach, anchored around Art Basel Miami, the mothership of all art fairs, and spread throughout downtown Miami and Wynwood District. My strategy is to experience a cross-section of art fairs that represent everything from blue-chip art to urban art which brings me to Red Dot Miami and Spectrum Miami, held inside Mana Wynwood convention center, December 4—8, 2019. 

The Design Tourist, aka Karen LeBlanc, at Spectrum Miami and Red Dot Miami, filming and reporting on innovative works and trends in the art world during Miami Art Week.

I attended the Opening Night Preview Party sponsored in association with Jadot and Bulleit Bourbon where I sipped on a , inspired by the iconic Bulleit Bourbon label and whiskey.

3D printed cocktail at the Bulleit 3D Printed Frontier bar

Nearby, I admired the debut of the Bulleit Art in a Bottle Collection.

Bulleit Frontier Whiskey partnered with Red Dot Miami and Spectrum Miami to create an art project of 12 original works of Bulleit Art in a Bottle

Bulleit Frontier Whiskey partnered with Red Dot Miami and Spectrum Miami to create an art project of 12 original works of Bulleit Art in a Bottle in collaboration with south Florida artists   Jason Skeldon “SKEL” and Elidea. Both artists are known for their unique visions and use of multiple mediums to create something new.

Jason’s art depicts human-animal hybrids who are taking their vocation to new heights, such as mixologists, scientists, architects and tattoo artists. Each character is shown raising a glass of whiskey to toast achievements and their commitments to innovating in new and inspiring ways.

Jason and Elidea’s art pieces are visual representations of what the cultural frontier means to them. Elidea’s Bulleit Art in A Bottle pieces depict the Cuban influence in Miami’s culture.The Bulleit Art in A Bottle Collection is available now at Saatchi Art 

 

What I like about Red Dot Miami and Spectrum Miami is their commitment to showcasing Florida artists.

An Italian native and Miami resident, Elidea with The Design Tourist, aka Karen LeBlanc filming her series The Design Tourist, along with videographer and co-producer Chris Fletcher at Spectrum Miami.

Artist Elidea lives in Miami and creates collages of mixed media working with gold and bronze leafing in layers with different papers and textures to create landscapes. 

The bronze and gold leaf layered collages of artist Elidea, the 2018 Spectrum Art show winner and the 2019 Spectrum Miami collaborator with Bulleit Frontier Whiskey’s Bottle Art Exhibition.

Artist Doug Powell based in Winter Park, Florida, works with recycled computer keys to create 3D sculpture and art.

Artist Doug Powell created a sculpture Gube Rubik’s crafted of 8,200 computer keys from a keyboard at ArtBlend , Spectrum

Doug creates the illusion of three-dimensional form through the use and arrangement of recycled, or up cycled, computer keyboard keys.

Florida artist Doug Powell placed his piece “Route 66,” for $16,000 at Spectrum Miami

Florida artist Paul Columbus showcased his Phantom Faces and Collaborations with Jennifer Friedland, at the Spectrum’s ArtBlend. Gator Skull, “Florida Boys” was the show stopper at his booth. The piece is a real Florida Alligator skull harvested from the waters of the Ochlockonee River in Northwest Florida and a limited release collaboration between the artist Paul Columbus and his lifelong friend and outdoorsman Justin  Rock. Both are Florida natives with a deep appreciation for native flora and fauna that define Florida landscape. 

Gator Skull, “Florida Boys” by Paul Columbus and Justin Rock at Spectrum Miami. The alligator skull is painted and coated in epoxy resin.

Columbus also presented his Phantom Faces collection, paintings of surrealistic faces blended with cubism.

The overarching theme at both shows was about creating awareness and connecting with humanity. At Spectrum Miami, I ran into two strange-looking characters clad in rags roaming the show as social sculptures. They were wearing Ghillie Suits, camouflage garb traditionally worn by snipers outdoors to blend in with their surroundings.

The Ghillie Suits by an anonymous artist in Boston who creates these suits to call attention to the opioid addiction crisis. The Design Tourist aka Karen LeBlanc with two models wearing the Ghillie Suits at Spectrum Miami.

“The Ghillie suit disrupts the silhouette and changes the figure making it invisible,” says Colin Beatty of the craft guild Unaffiliate exhibiting the Ghillie Suit Project. The Boston-based artist who designed the 10 Ghillie Suits featured at the art fair wishes to remain anonymous but says his art is a response to the opioid epidemic.  He crafted each suit from the articles of clothing from people who died from opioid addiction. “The artist took their wardrobe, shredded it and made camouflage suits of the people who died of addition to symbolize how they were hidden in plain sight. The artist is calling out the stigma attached to the disease of addiction.  The Ghillie Suit is a work of art that serves as a catharsis and recovery.”

Artist Eduardo Cabrer with The Design Tourist, aka Karen LeBlanc filming her series The Design Tourist, along with videographer and co-producer Chris Fletcher at Red Dot Miami

The work of artist Eduardo Cabrer calls attention to the single-use plastics problem polluting our waterways and beaches. Cabrer suspends found trash and objects in colored resin creating thought-provoking works that raise questions about consumerism and our throw-away culture. 

Artist Eduardo Carber’s resin encased Plasticid collection on view at Red Dot Miami

“It’s about creating an awareness of the excess of plastic that is out there. I find most of the objects that I use in my art on the beaches of Puerto Rico. I found the plastic bags in the streets of New York. It’s a contrast between the process of buying something and the process of disposing of something. It’s just creating that awareness of the eternity of plastic,” Eduardo says.

New Jersey-based artist Zevi G, shared a message of kindness with his interactive art installation featuring the character sculpture Gesture, part of an imaginary world called 456 Land.

The Design Tourist, aka Karen LeBlanc posing for a photo op with the bronze sculpture “Gesture” by artist Zevi G at Red Dot Miami Art Fair

The bronze, bow-tie clad sculpture held a rose and stood in front of a wall of roses. As I approached the booth for a photo op with Gesture, someone handed me a real long stem rose and encouraged me to “share kindness.” Part performance art,  guests were invited to fill out by postcard with the address of someone they wish to send kindness and Zevi G’s staff will mail the rose to the recipient on the postcard.

Crazy Sugar Montage by artist M VILLASIERRA (Mario Villarroel)

Crazy Sugar by artist Mario Villarroel is a critical reflection of society, in this case, its addiction to junk food.  The work is part of  Villarroel’s The Second Life collection that seeks to give a new beginning to everyday objects, that lost their value due to their usage. His paintings are collages that he decorates with disruptive memes.  

Spectrum Miami featured the works of more than 200 exhibiting galleries and artists from the Florida region, the U.S. and around the globe, informed by the 2019 curatorial theme [IGNITE]. Known for its urban and upscale works of art, the five-day show attracted more than 40,000 visitors and high-net-worth collectors who interact with the specially curated programming, while celebrating the fine art experience with music, entertainment and other special events.

Red Dot Miami, a curated gallery-only contemporary art fair, presented for its 14th year, saw the highly anticipated annual presentation of leading galleries and their artists, informed by [PASSION] as the curatorial theme for 2019. Red Dot Miami featured more than 60 galleries representing over 500 leading contemporary artists from primary and secondary markets throughout the world.

Learn more about the artists featured at Red Dot Miami and Spectrum Miami  in new episodes of The Design Tourist filmed at Miami Art Week.

For more on what’s new and next in travel and design, subscribe to The Design Tourist Channel and sign up for the blog email.

 

December 28, 2019 0 comment
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Plasticidad: The Plastic Trash Art of Eduardo Cabrer

by Karen LeBlanc December 28, 2019
written by Karen LeBlanc

Miami Art Week 2019 Meet the Artist: Experience the Art Series

The Artist: Eduardo Cabrer

The Idea: Art that Calls Out Consumer Behavior

The Art: Plasticidad

Artist Eduardo Cabrer with The Design Tourist, aka Karen LeBlanc, and videographer and show co-producer Chris Fletcher filming his plastic trash art for a new episode of The Design Tourist show airing soon.

At Spectrum Miami, one of several art fairs held during Miami Art Week 2019, I was drawn to the work of Eduardo Cabrer who encases plastic trash and found objects in colored resin creating thought-provoking art that calls out consumer waste.

Plastic shopping bags that artist Eduardo found on the streets of New York City and suspended each one in resin as part of his series, Plasticidad, on view at Spectrum Miami

The collection is called Plasticidad and consists of debris and found objects suspended in resin, raising questions about the origin and purpose of each object.

Plastic cigarette lighters that artist Eduardo found as trash on the beach and suspended each one in resin as part of his series, Plasticidad on view at Spectrum Miami

Eduardo started making his resin-coated trash art after walking the beaches of his native Puerto Rico with his daughters to collect shells only to discover the beaches were covered in more trash than shells. “We started collecting plastic instead of shell shells and then I had the problem of figuring out what to do with all of this plastic to add value to it,” Eduardo says.

Plastic medicine bottles artist Eduardo Cabrer found and suspended in resin as part of his series, Plasticidad, on view at Spectrum Miami

I’m fascinated by the irony of creating a thing of beauty out of the ugliness of trash. I find Eduardo’s aesthetic haunting, as if his found objects are entombed as a shrine to the follies of humankind.

Fallen Angel by Eduardo Cabrer on view at Spectrum Miami

Middle artwork is “Dial O for Operator” by artist Eduardo Cabrer along with Fallen Angel on the lefthand side on view at Spectrum Miami.

“It’s about creating an awareness of the excess of plastic that is out there. It’s a contrast between the process of buying something and the process of disposing of something. My artwork is about creating that awareness of the eternity of plastic,” Eduardo says.

Trash that artist Eduardo Cabrer found and suspended in resin as part of his series, Plasticidad, on view at Spectrum Miami

Through his art, Eduardo hopes to create an awareness of issues caused by consumer behavior and call out our throwaway culture. “That is part of the challenge to create something that adds value out of something that has no monetary value.”

Spectrum Miami 2019, is an art fair known for its urban and upscale works of art. The show featured the works of more than 200 exhibiting galleries and artists from the Florida region, the U.S. and around the globe, informed by the 2019 curatorial theme Ignite. 

Learn more about the art of Eduardo Cabrer in new episodes of The Design Tourist filmed at Miami Art Week.

For more on what’s new and next in travel and design, subscribe to The Design Tourist Channel and sign up for the blog email.

 

December 28, 2019 0 comment
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8 Unique Date Night Ideas for Any Season

by Mallory Knee December 13, 2019
written by Mallory Knee

This coming year, leave your dinner-and-a-movie nights in the past and instead try out some of these unique date night ideas for any season—you won’t regret it!

Leave your dinner-and-a-movie date night in the past, and start getting creative! So many couples get stuck in the trap of going on the same few dates throughout the year. That rotation isn’t just boring—it can also leave you and your partner feeling as though you’re losing passion. As the new year rolls around, try adding in some of these unique date night ideas for any season. Having a bigger list of fun things to do with your partner will spice up date night as well as your connection—check them out!

Sign up for a Cooking Class

A lot of date ideas work no matter the season, and this is one of them. Taking a cooking class is always a fun way to spend some quality time with your partner. Better yet, you’ll also get to enjoy a homemade meal while you’re at it!

Solve an Escape Room

This great fall date night idea actually works year-round. An escape room is perfect for those stormy or snowy nights when you’d typically turn to a movie.

Go to a Sporting Event

Sporting events are great ways to bring some joy and excitement to your relationship. Even if you aren’t big sports fans, try going to one anyway—the thrilling atmosphere makes it well worth it! Not to mention, there’s always some sort of sporting event going on all year long.

Visit a Local Winery or Brewery

If you and your partner like to sip, then head to a local brewery or winery instead of your typical restaurant. A lot of these places will allow you to bring food in, and some even have their own kitchens or tasty food trucks nearby. Enjoy each other’s company while you sip on some tasty beverages.

Throw a Themed Movie Night

We’ve been talking about how you should try to limit your dinner-and-a-movie date nights, but this idea is a little different. Pick a movie with a distinct theme to watch at home, then make dinner based around that theme. For example, if you’ve chosen Midnight in Paris, try making a French dish you’ve never tried before. It’s a relaxing and rejuvenating date night idea.

Plan Weekly Date Walks

This is a very simple date idea, and it’s something you can easily pair with other ideas on this list. Bundle up for winter walks or stroll around the town in the summer—walks are great opportunities to reconnect and hear more about your partner’s day.

Fires and Game Night

Whether you have a fireplace or an outdoor firepit, plan a night where you play games and sit by the fire. Nights like these tend to turn into nights of enthralling conversation and focused attention, so if you notice that you both seem a little disconnected, this may be the thing that syncs you back up again.

Volunteer for a Cause

Finally, another idea that’s quite easy to accomplish no matter the time of year is volunteering—it’s is a fantastic way to spend time together. Choose a cause you’re both passionate about, and figure out a way to volunteer for it. Meaningful date nights like these will put a lot of issues you may be dealing with in perspective.

 

December 13, 2019 0 comment
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Design ArticlesDestinationsHomepage

The 8 Best Places To Visit In 2020

by ContributedPost December 11, 2019
written by ContributedPost

Humans tend to gain the best. Whether it is about eating food, wearing clothes, buying the products, or going on a travel visit, humans want the best of it. With extreme care, this article is written to collect and give it to you, the top eight places in the world that are best to travel to in the year 2020.  This travel guide will not your hopes fall and will escort you to some of the choicest places of this planet. Go through each one of them through this write-up and decide the climactic order of which site you will visit first!

Amangiri at Canyon Point Utah, USA:

Amangiri at Canyon Point Utah

Reading its name, what do you expect? A beautiful city? A mesmerizing town? It’s a hotel! Amangiri is a place at a distance of four hours of drive from Las Vegas in the United States. It established on 600 acres of land between the surreal views of majestic mountains. If you want an exploring escape, it is the best place for you. You can stay at Amangiri with nature and visit the nearby spots like red rocks of Slot, Antelope Canyon, and see the creations of Bryce Canyon National Park. I assure you, you will remain awestruck by this place.

Sicily, Italy:

Sicily, Italy. Photo by Mauro Reem-Itchy from Pexels

The city of Sicily in Italy is unquestionably one of the best sites in the world to adore. Having tinted blue seas amidst the Mediterranean sea, Sicily has great islands within. You can visit the Palermo town, Valley of the temple, Noto Village, Mount Etna, and its live volcano! The place is on the top of the European tourist destination list for the year 2020 and hence is a sure shot destination to visit in the upcoming year. Sicily has nine finest blends of wines made in-house that you should taste during a visit to the splendid Sicily in Italy.

Cape Town, South Africa:

Cape Town, South Africa. Photo by Scott Webb from Pexels

Cape Town is a port city of South Africa that has something to offer differently to each human that lands on it. The moving cable cars towards the top of the table mountain lets you see the views of the city with awe! The wineries and the wine villages of the Cape Town are acclaimed globally for its kind. The capital city of South Africa is the capital of poignant, peace, and pleasure. The metro-cultured city has botanical gardens and never-ending ocean with blues to let you visit the place all year long at any time with the same grace!

Patagonia, Argentina:

Patagonia, Argentina

Shared between Argentina and Chile, Patagonia nestles in South America. The place is beyond beautiful and has its vibe of appeal. The Santa Cruz river in the north of Patagonia is a place where you can decide to die happily! It has several lakes that are the scenic beauties by nature. You can have the fun of adventurous activities like Biking, Hiking, Riding, Climbing, Rapling, Trekking, Skiing, Mountain Camping, Golf Sports, and Water Activities. You can spend your time climbing the ice glaciers and even visit the modern and magical constructions and potentially incredible places by humans in the city.

Kigali, Capital of Rwanda:

Kigali, Capital of Rwanda

The center of Rwanda, the capital of Rwanda, is also the center and capital of attraction. Yes, I am talking about the city of Kigali in Rwanda. Spread across mountain cliffs, Kigali has many valleys and ridges that have to give you breathtaking views. Having historical significance of its Civil war, the city today is rich for its cleanliness, safety, fashion, and culture. The handicrafts and woven products made by the regional citizens are the quality products in the eyes of foreign tourists. The Kigali women run a co-operation that is involved in making the best coffee in the world.

Marrakech in Morocco:

Marrakech in Morocco. Photo by Nicolas Postiglioni from Pexels

Often, recalled as a desert city of Morocco, Marrakech is the stunning city of virtue in the sands. In the desert dunes, you can extensively experience the camel rides or dinner in the isolated sands with your close person. There are restaurants in deserts with the best food, belly-dancers, fire-makers, and entertainers like irreplaceable in the world. In the city, there are museums, gardens, and monuments with extraordinary human character. Also known as Marrakesh, the town has mosques and minarets with placid palaces and heavily crowded markets. The whole city has a unique charm. You can feel it by walking down into the captivating streets!

Duoro Valley, Portugal:

Duoro Valley, Portugal

The valley that forms over the Douro river of the Atlantic ocean is one of the most prominent rivers of the European Iberian Peninsula. It waters Spain and Portugal along with the Porto and makes these cities flooded with blue beauty. The Douro Valley has supernatural landscapes that will drop down your jaw with a keen surprise! The valley is home to some of the remarkable architectures. You can enjoy sports activities amidst the mountains. The best thing to not miss is taking a river cruise in the valley. You will remain spellbound with the things you will see along the ride!

Tel Aviv, Israel:

Tel Aviv, Israel. Photo by Adam Grabek from Pexels

Imagine how gorgeous a city would appear out of it being parallelly on the Mediterranean coastline! Tel Aviv in Israel belongs to the Jewish wealth, with most of the tall buildings built in the same architectural style. There are museums that exhibit the Jewish community cultures very specially. The city ruins depict the folklore and craft carvings dating back to the 12th century. A city that warms the LGBTQ community, a city that has an influential tradition, a city that has intimating sealine, a city that has an excellent white building lining, is a city that you should surely visit!

These cities are not much famous alike Paris, Goa, or New York. However, I believe that they have a trait that will make you connect with their personalities. Set your car, Load your luggage on a Universal roof rack, and go on exploring these cities in 2020!

This is a contributed blog post from Rebecca Siggers

 

 

December 11, 2019 0 comment
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