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Entertainment, Film, MSM Online, Music, Traveler

10 Celebrity Vacation Hotspots

By Gisel Habibnejad With their fame and fortune running on surplus, celebrities know exactly where and how to vacation. If you want to know the hotspots to travel to, simply follow the footsteps of all the biggest celebrities—after all, they keep coming back for a reason. Here’s a list of the most popular worldwide destinations infested with familiar faces. 1. Saint Tropez Who you’ll see: Cindy Crawford, Rande Gerber, Tom Cruise, Rihanna, P. Diddy, Jack Nicholson, Gigi Hadid, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Sir Elton John, Beyonce, Jay-Z 2. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Who you’ll see: Jennifer Aniston, Justin Theroux, Cameron Diaz, Ryan Seacrest, Julia Roberts, George & Amal Clooney, Justin Timberlake, Jessica Biel, Oprah Winfrey, Will Smith, Jada Pinkett-Smith 3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia Who you’ll see: Nicole Kidman, Eva Longoria, Rob Lowe, Sharon Stone, Charlize Theron, Keith Urban 4. Maldives Who you’ll see: Eva Longoria, Penelope Cruz, Kate Moss, Jude Law, David & Victoria Beckham, Josh Duhamel, Fergie, Mariah Carey, Nick Cannon, Katy Perry, Tom Cruise 5. South Beach, Florida Who you’ll see: Kardashians, Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, Cameron Diaz, Christina Aguilera, Kanye West, Amber Heard, Drake, Lenny Kravitz, Ellie Goulding 6. Lake Como, Italy Who you’ll see: George & Amal Clooney, Matt Damon, Brad Pitt, Beyonce, Jay-Z, Johnny Depp, Amber Heard, Madonna, Sir Richard Branson, Alred Hitchcock, Mick Jagger, Kylie Minogue, Robert De Niro, Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Sandra Bullock 7. Maui, Hawaii Who you’ll see: Paris Hilton, Megan Fox, Owen Wilson, Oprah Winfrey, Justin Bieber, Britney Spears, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Jason Statham, Jack Osbourne, Charlize Theron, Sean Penn 8. Dubai Who you’ll see: Kim Kardashian West, Kanye West, David & Victoria Beckham, Rita Ora, Nicole Scherzinger, Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Roger Federer, Selena Gomez, Paris Hilton 9. Aspen, Colorado Who you’ll see: Elle Macpherson, Jack Nicholson, Paris Hilton, Mariah Carey, Nick Cannon, Nicole Scherzinger, Lewis Hamilton 10. Barbados Who you’ll see: Rihanna, Cara Delevigne, Gwyneth Paltrow, Claudia Schiffer, Simon Cowell, Sting, Hugh Grant, Tiger Woods, Naomi Watts, Katy Perry    

Beauty, MSM Online, Traveler

Safe Travels with Savvy Travelers

By Gisel Habibnejad The holiday are coming up, which usually means traveling with loved ones. Some of these travels require air transportation and airlines enforce a strict travel code through which our beauty essentials usually suffer. Sometimes, we have to leave behind important products vital to our beauty regimen. Savvy Travelers relieves us of most of these pains by creating one-time use, disposable products that are also airline friendly. Recently launched at Nordstrom earlier this month, the brand was created by Tina Aldatz and Margie Floris in partnership with the department store. The specialized items are made in California and can be used as on-the-go products, not just for travel. Each 6-pack box is $10. “Whether you are buying Savvy Travelers products as a stocking stuffer for a friend or loved one, or if you need the products yourself to ease packing during holiday travels, Savvy Travelers aims to make your holidays healthier and easier,” shares Margie. Here are four products you won’t want to travel without: 1. Take Offz A facial cleanser and moisturizer in one—that doesn’t need any water! 2. In the Klear Glass cleaner. This includes eyeglasses, phones, smart devices, and much more. 3. No Sweat Antiperspirant sheets that are so light and take up little to no space. 4. Speak Eazy Mouthwash in a wipe—easy, breezy, fresh!

The Issue, Traveler

Amazing Ski Resorts Worth the Visit this Winter

November-December Issue 2015 By Dawn Wilson With so many ski resorts to choose from, narrowing down the one to visit may pose a bit of a challenge. However, we have come across a few that we think are worth your taking notice of. These resorts offer more than skiing options, they offer the chance to relax and become one with nature, in an environment that is conducive to your total relaxation. When you are looking for a luxury experience, there is a variety of options you’ll have to select from. Take in majestic mountain views and enjoy the great outdoors all while enjoying a ski vacation with your family or co-workers. Whether you are going to ski the slopes or just enjoy the ambiance, there is plenty to do for everyone at the featured resorts and hotels we have selected. Four Seasons Vail Resort Situated just at the foot of Vail Mountain in Vail, Colorado sits the prestigious Four Seasons Vail Resort, a contemporary, European-style 5-star resort. It boasts scenic views of the Alpine Mountains that stretch for miles. The Four Seasons Vail Resort offers a selection of 121 rooms, suites and private homes. Each room equipped with luxurious amenities, including; gas burning fireplaces and furnished terraces. The interiors are of warm hickory wood and limestone. Guests can feast on delicious, hearty cuisine in the resort’s steakhouse restaurant, Flame. Its interiors are warm and inviting. You’ll also find a lovely bar with the perfect lighting along with unobstructed mountain views. With a year around pool and plenty of outdoor activities to participate in, this non-smoking, resort is the ideal location for meetings, family retreats or a respite for singles. Everything you could need or want on a ski vacation is offered to you at Four Seasons Vail Resort. For more information on the Four Seasons Vail Resort, please visit www.fourseasons.com/vail Rustic Inn Creekside Resort & Spa If you are planning a ski vacation in or near Jackson Hole, Wyoming, why not make Rustic Inn Creekside Resort & Spa your home base. It offers a variety of lodging options, which include, rooms, suites and luxury cabins. Located along the Jackson Flat Creek, in Jackson Hole, Rustic Inn’s new Spa Suites come complete with a fully furnished patio, soaking tub and a rustic fireplace. In addition to the many luxury amenities that are provided, you are also afforded the opportunity to be serviced by your own personal butler. With Western contemporary décor and charm, you’re certain to feel the warmth and intimacy offered to you at Rustic Creekside Resort & Spa. It is a small boutique property that enables you to receive personalized attention and service. After a day of skiing, relax at the resort’s award-winning spa or indulge in a fireside dinner with friends and family before turning in for the evening. For more information on Rustic Inn Creekside Resort & Spa, please visit www.rusticinnatjh.com Le Westin Tremblant Le Westin Tremblant is an immaculate modern, contemporary hotel, which sits in the European-style pedestrian village of Mont Tremblant. It offers 122 guest suites surrounded by the Laurentian Mountain of Quebec, Canada. There are 600 acres of skiing and two championship golf courses available to guests of Le Westin Tremblant. Every suite offers its guests a good night’s sleep on the Westin Heavenly Bed and comes complete with either a microwave and mini fridge combo or a fully equipped kitchenette. Rooms also feature cozy gas fireplaces, perfect to retreat back to after an afternoon of skiing. Additional property amenities include a 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center, a sophisticated restaurant featuring Spanish cuisine and luxurious spa services offered by Amerispa. Mont Tremblant has four distinctly different slopes, in addition to, over 650 acres of trails. There are also three snow parks that are primarily used by free-style skiers. A ski vacation to Canada should include a stay at Le Westin Tremblant. For more information on Le Westin Tremblant, please visit www.westintremblant.com Stowe Mountain Lodge A New England favorite, Stowe Mountain Lodge, is a ski-in, ski-out resort offering easy access to Stowe Mountain Resort. Situated in Stowe, Vermont, Stowe Mountain Lodge is a mountain destination offering picturesque mountain, river, lake and woodland views at every turn. If you have never had an upscale mountain experience before, find out what you’ve been missing with a visit to Stowe, Vermont. Stowe Mountain Lodge offers five-star accommodations and defines luxury in terms of a rustic mountain vacation. All 300 rooms and suites offer something different and unique. You can select from a large suite with terraces, fully equipped gourmet kitchens and fireplaces or a small, intimate studio just for two. Guests can enjoy New England cuisine at the hotel’s fine dining or casual restaurant; whichever is preferred. This prestigious resort also offers an 18-hole championship golf course, a spa and wellness center and an indoor/outdoor swimming pool. Help is readily available to skiers seeking to improve their experience with help from the resort’s ski professionals. Stowe Mountain Lodge is an upscale New England retreat perfect for skiers and snowboarders. For more information on Stowe Mountain Lodge, please visit www.destinationhotels.com/stowe-mountain-lodge Click here to view this post in MSM’s November/December 2015 digital issue

LIFESTYLE, MSM Online, Traveler

6 Reasons to Book a Flight to Canada Right Now!

…Other than Niagara Falls. Our neighbors up north have a lot more to offer than icy landscapes and beautiful waterfalls. Next time you make a trip, be sure to visit these wonderful attractions, eh. 1. Butchart Gardens 2. Notre Dame Basilica 3. Moraine Lake 4. Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology 5. Peyto Lake 6. Parliament Hill & Buildings

MSM Online, Traveler

Six of the World’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls

Majestic beauty takes form in the waterfalls of the world. The loud sound coming from the water making its way down, making themselves known. While the sight alone brings peace and awe to all who are fortunate enough to encounter one. Here are some of the most beautiful waterfalls on earth.  1. Plitvice Falls, Croatia 2. Niagara Falls, New York 3. Palouse Falls, Washington 4. McCarthur-Burney Falls, California 5. Ban Goic-Detian Falls, Vietnam 6. Multnomah Falls, Oregon

MSM Online, Traveler

7 Unique Things to do in the Florida Keys

1. John Pennenkamp Coral Reef State Park Made up of 70 nautical square miles, there are many ways locals and tourists can enjoy a day at this national state park. Take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the reef from a dry place or get up close and personal with a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure. Speaking of boats, canoes and kayaks are available for those who wish to get some exercise in while having fun. Inland adventures also await you with relaxing tropical hammocks and mangrove swamps waiting to be explored. We can’t help but mention the extraordinary 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium made up of several species of fish. 2. Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Pie Shoppe You can’t visit the Florida Keys without indulging on some delicious homemade key lime pie. What better place than one of Key West’s famous key lime pie shops? The Food Network and Paula Deen have raved about this spot; we think it’s safe to say this is one of the best places to get the tastiest treat. The historical background of this pie dates back to the 1800s when the first key lime pie was made just south of Miami. 3. Vandenberg Artificial Reef If you’ve always wondered what it’s like to explore a sunken shipwreck, you’ve come to the right place. At 520-feet long and 100-feet tall, this vessel is one of the largest artificial reefs in the world. It is still fairly new, as it sank in 2009 and therefore is still developing its complete formation. However, the sight of the wreck is definitely one to behold and one you won’t forget. 4. Key West National Wildlife Refuge Created to protect and preserve the natural wilderness of the Florida Keys, the Key West National Wildlife Refuge includes several endangered native species of birds and sea animals. It was established by President Roosevelt in 1908 and has been successful in the preservation of land and animals. 5. Robert The Haunted Doll Halloween is just around the corner, so why not include a doll enchanted with spirits. Ever heard of Chucky the doll from Child’s Play? Robert the haunted doll was the inspiration behind this horror movie classic. You can “play” with this doll and learn about its history and how it became haunted at the East Martello Museum. 6. Duval Street Now for some food, drinks, and lots of laughs at Duval Street. From Ernest Hemingway’s favorite spot Sloppy Joe’s to Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Museum, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 7. Ernest Hemingway’s Key West Home Just a few streets down from his favorite bar, Ernest Hemmingway lived in a cozy two-story house. Learn how he lived in his Key West days and about the infamous cats living here. The cats are said to be descendants of the cats that lived with him, as many of them were born with extra toes. Inside the house, you’ll find paintings his wife collected from Paris, and outside you’ll experience the lovely garden with plenty of different species of flora.

LIFESTYLE, MSM Online, Traveler

5 Colorful U.S. Destinations You’ll be Dreaming About

By Gisel Habibnejad While the summer may be over, true wanderlust still lingers and remains for some of us throughout the year. Whenever that tick strikes, you can take a quick trip to any of these awe-inspiring locations to temporarily quiet the urge but leave us speechless forever. Palouse Hills Stretching across southeastern Washington, north central Idaho, and northeast Oregon, the Palouse hills have become a wonder in itself proving the beauty America’s land has to offer. The history of this destination extends as far back as the ice ages, which is believed to have formed its elevated hills. However, the region began a growth in population in the late 19th century. You can also find the Oregon Trail 160 miles south of the hills. Northern Lights Also known as the Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights can be seen near all the magnetic poles of the earth. For those of you who don’t know, Alaska is a hotspot for these–we hope you don’t mind the cold! Surely, the cold temperatures are worth it for this experience. The colors alone will excite the inner science geek within you. Antelope Canyon Shades of pink and orange take over when one steps into Antelope Canyon. The popular attraction is located on Navajo land in Arizona and has only been open to the public since 1997. You can attribute it’s beauty to flash flooding which still occurs from time to time. Grand Teton National Park 40 miles worth of majestic mountain peaks and its colors embody the Grand Teton National Park located in Wyoming. The national park has been preserved so greatly, prehistoric plants and animals particular to the region can still be found here (more than 1,000 vascular plants, dozens of species of mammals, 300 species of birds, more than a dozen fish species, and some species of reptiles and amphibians). Ruby Falls Head to the south of the United States (north for us) to experience a unique underground waterfall called Ruby Falls in Tennessee. The 145-foot high cascade is housed in Lookout Mountain and was formed about 200 million years ago when it was once a shallow sea. If the name sounds familiar to you, that must mean you’re a Johnny Cash fan who co-wrote the song “See Ruby Fall,” whose title was inspired by this attraction.

The Issue, Traveler

Miami to Maine & Everything In-Between

By Dawn Wilson When you have had enough of staying indoors because of the extreme heat and humidity of the summer, you may be ready to get outdoors into the fresh air of the autumn season. We can’t think of anything better than doing so while taking an exciting and informative road-trip across the country. Why not consider a road-trip from Miami to Maine? We know this is a long trip but we assure you that it will be well worth your time. In our efforts to inspire you to consider a Miami to Maine road-trip, we have come up with some of the must-see attractions along the way. FLORIDA Orlando Walt Disney World and Islands of Adventure/Universal Studios Two of the area’s premier theme parks with adventure rides, live entertainment, food and lots of souvenir shops. All three attract visitors of all ages. Daytona Daytona International Speedway A racetrack built in 1959 where NASCAR’s popular Daytona 500 race is held annually. Take a tour of the infamous speedway, from behind-the-scenes racecar inspections to delving into their large collection of “one-of-a-kind racing artifacts.” For more information, please visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com GEORGIA Atlanta World of Coca-Cola This museum educates its visitors about the history of the iconic soft drink through interactive presentations. See the different Coca-Cola memorabilia from around the world. Georgia Aquarium Once the largest public aquarium, it houses thousands of sea animals, representing approximately 500 species, living in 10 million gallons of water. SOUTH CAROLINA Columbia Riverbanks Zoo and Garden 170-acres of land that plays home to over 2,000 animals and lush theme gardens. Enjoy the area’s natural habitat and scenic views. NORTH CAROLINA Asheville Biltmore Estate Situated here is the largest privately owned house in America, the Biltmore House. Visitors can also enjoy the estate’s winery, shops and restaurants. For more information, please visit www.biltmore.com Linville Grandfather Mountain It is the highest peak in the Blue Ridge Mountain range in North Carolina. Hiking and picnicking is encouraged in order to appreciate the natural beauty of the region. For more information, please visit www.grandfather.com Linville Caverns Active limestone caverns open year round to visitors. Guided tours are offered, explaining the history of the caverns and subterranean area of the Blue Ridge Mountains. VIRGINIA Williamsburg Colonial Williamsburg A living history museum with 301-acres of historical buildings that date back to the eighteenth century. An interpretation of colonial times of America with restored buildings. Charlottesville Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello This was the home of Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States. Tour the 1769 mansion and learn about its history and explore its pristine gardens. Mount Vernon George Washington’s Mount Vernon Mount Vernon was the plantation home of our first president, George Washington. Its rich history has been preserved with various types of tours offered daily. WEST VIRGINIA Fayetteville New River Gorge Bridge This bridge is an arch bridge that is approximately 3,000 feet long and sits over the New River Gorge. Visitors can take stairs into the gorge or walk across the steel walkway underneath. MARYLAND Baltimore Museum of Dentistry One of the few museums in America dedicated to teaching visitors about dental history, oral health and dentistry. Visitors can see interesting dental artifacts and lively exhibitions. DELAWARE Wilmington The Grand Opera House A 1,208-seat performing arts theater, The Grand Opera House showcases local and national talent with its many theatrical productions, concerts and plays. Dover Air Mobility Command Museum Aircrafts no longer in production are housed here. With over 30 aircrafts on display visitors will see fi ghter planes, cargo haulers, bomber planes and helicopters. NEW JERSEY West Orange Thomas Edison National Historic Park The home of famed inventor, Thomas Edison, and his laboratory are located here. The park explains the history of both the laboratory and the homestead. Sussex High Point State Park Stunningly beautiful panoramic views of the lakes and mountains are seen at High Point State Park. Visitors enjoy boating, hiking, lake swimming and skiing. NEW YORK New York City Statue of Liberty The Statue of Liberty represents the symbol of freedom. Visitors come in remembrance of their ancestors’ journey to the United States. Battery Park A 25-acre, harbor facing public park. The Sphere and eternal flame memorial is just one of the many memorials and monuments worth seeing at Battery Park. Empire State Building Visit the observation deck of the 102-story, art deco skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan where there are 360-degree views of the city of New York. One World Observatory See amazing skyline views and surrounding waters of New York City from the 100th, 101st and 102nd fl oors of One World Trade Center where the Observatory is located. For more information, please visit oneworldobservatory.com CONNECTICUT New Haven Peabody Museum of Natural History at Yale University One of the oldest and largest natural history museums in the world, it offers both permanent and traveling exhibits. Interesting exhibits include fossils and dinosaur remains. RHODE ISLAND Newport Newport Cliff Walk A public access walkway along the coastline with beautiful ocean views, tunnels, smooth and rugged pathways. View massive gilded mansions along the way. MASSACHUSETTS Salem The House of the Seven Gables The oldest timber-framed mansion remaining in continental North America originally built in 1668. Discover how the mansion has changed over the centuries. For more information, please visit www.7gables.org Massachusetts Bay Whale Watch at Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary Charters take groups or individuals out for whale watching in the marine sanctuary. The marine offers helpful tips to help you get the most of your whale watching experience. For more information, please visit stellwagen.noaa.gov Martha’s Vineyard Martha’s Vineyard An island south of Cape Cod, it is a destination in popular demand by celebrities and the wealthy. Take a lovely ferry ride and enjoy the beautiful views the island has to offer. For more information, please visit www.mvol.com VERMONT Waterbury Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory Tour Learn how your favorite ice cream flavors are manufactured at the factory. Sample flavors not yet introduced to the public and create your own

LIFESTYLE, MSM Online, Traveler

South Florida: Be a Tourist in Your Own City

Written & Photographed by Alyse Mier Day after day of living in a place that is absolute paradise you may forget just how beautiful the place is or even everything it has to offer. You begin to take for granted that a car ride to the beach is only 20 minutes away, or that you never get to experience a true winter. Well it’s time to stop and truly notice your surroundings. Rather than traveling out of town this summer take advantage of some of the best summer destinations being closer to home than you might think. Fort Lauderdale A city known for its miles of beaches, boating channels and for once being the overly popular spring break destination. However, now Fort Lauderdale is becoming quite the up and coming staycation destination for many locals. Some are even beginning to refer to this city as the “Venice of America.” You can experience the city by foot or consider taking a cycle tour of the city that will stop off at some of the best local breweries and bars. If you’re looking to witness some of Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife then definitely visit downtown and head over to Las Olas Boulevard. Las Olas has become home to some of South Florida’s best dining, shopping and entertaining experiences. Last, but most certainly not least, since you will be on vacation make sure to spend a few days relaxing and soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches this city has to offer. Hollywood Beach A quiet little area nestled between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, which makes it perfect for a quiet and relaxing weekend getaway. Stay at one of the oceanfront hotels, and enjoy some of the beachfront restaurants, bars and shops that are located along the Hollywood Boardwalk. Downtown Hollywood offers a growing arts and cultural scene, which houses murals, galleries, art installations and Arts Park at Young Circle. Convenient trolley services are offered to make it easier for you to experience everything the city has to offer. For those of you interested in taking part in unique adventures you can play a game of life-sized chess or march to the beat of your own drum at the full moon festival, Drum Circle. The wide array of relaxing activities makes this little city the perfect match for a staycation. Miami Beach This insanely popular city has become best known for its weather, beaches and most importantly its party like atmosphere. Act like a tourist by visiting some of the widely popular beaches the city has to offer. Later, visit museums and soak in some of the city’s rich history by visiting the Art Deco Historic district or taking a stroll down Española Way. Take a food tour and indulge your taste buds in some of the best and most exotic flavors. And of course experience some of the best nightlife by dancing the night away at some of the best nightclubs or visiting some of the city’s award winning bars like the Broken Shaker. Miami Beach is a true picturesque vacation location. Key Largo The northernmost island of the Florida Keys offers an array of outdoor activities that are perfect for the whole family. Take in all the natural beauty Florida has to offer and learn about our coral reefs while snorkeling, kayaking or diving at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. You can even paddle board through the key or swim with the dolphins. For those of you looking to stay on land enjoy a beautiful garden tour at the Botanic Gardens at Kona Kai Resort. Enjoy the vast green land, which is perfect for golfing and go carting. Key Largo also offers an array of activities for the little ones too such as: fishing for fossils, jet pack adventures, aquariums and much more. This little island has proven to be the perfect place to disconnect while staying local. Key West This southernmost point of the United States is perfect for taking in a vast amount of history and having your bit of fun. Charter a boat or rent a jet ski and travel the key in style. Enjoy some snorkeling, diving and whale watching from the same boat you chartered. Be sure to take a drive down the historic 7 Mile bridge and visit the Southernmost Point. As soon as the sun begins to set make sure to visit Mallory Square to witness the absolute most stunning sunset. Then make your way over to Duval Street for a night filled with drinks, dancing, live performances and even a bit of shopping. Key West is perfect way to unwind in the presence of natural beauty and create some lasting memories.

The Issue, Traveler

Travel for Self-Discovery

By Dawn Wilson You may sometimes feel as though life is simply passing you by and instead of living, you are simply existing. When you get to a point in your life where nothing brings you happiness or even contentment, it may be time for an Eat, Pray, Love moment. In the movie, Eat, Pray, Love, it was all about finding meaning and purpose in life again. This can be done in a variety of ways, however; the character in the movie removed herself from her normal surroundings and set out on an adventure that eventually gave her exactly what she needed. Each location on her journey had meaning and purpose. Rome, Italy Rome is the capital of Italy and is located in central Italy. The Vatican City is also located in Rome; this is why it is often referred to as being a capital with two states. Rome is known for its mythological history. However, in recent years, it is the culinary scene that keeps tourists coming back. Perhaps the character in the movie came to Rome for the food or perhaps to see the passion for which the food is prepared. There is nothing like experiencing the real culture of a city by taking “the road less traveled.” Hire a local to take you where you’ll find the best gelato, pizza, pasta, bread, olive oils, cheeses, need I go on? With the variety of foods that Rome has to offer, who couldn’t easily lose themselves. For more information, please visit www.RomeTravels.com Sacred Ashram in India Hindi gurus in India live in ashrams. An ashram is a sacred place of healing and reconnecting. They are usually located far away from the city center, deep in the mountains or forest where there is peace and tranquility, limiting distractions. An ashram is generally open and airy; designed to allow the perfect amount of light in to illuminate throughout the space. Do not for one second think that visiting an ashram is a vacation. You are only allowed to bring your necessities. The overall objective is to connect with your spiritual side. This is done through a strict schedule of daily chanting, meditation, yoga and teaching/learning seasons. Personal time is allowed for exercise, writing or reflecting. Visiting an ashram is a great way to refocus on what brings you the greatest happiness. For more information, please visit www.TraveliteIndia.com Bali, Indonesia Bali is an island of Indonesia and is the largest tourist destination in the country. It is considered by many to be an enchanting paradise island. With its Mediterranean temperatures and long days, travelers have good reason to visit Bali. Romance is rampant on the island because of its majestic beauty. Visiting Bali is like a fairytale within itself. You just need to write the script. There are exquisite arrangements of flowers and bountiful fruit, lavishly displayed. In the evening, there are captivating performances, which reflect the culture and history of the Balinese people. There is no doubt that time spent in Bali easily allows you to let your walls down; leaving you feeling stronger and renewed. For more information, please visit www.Indo-Diver.com Click here to view this post in the July/August digital issue. Click here to view our online issue.

The Issue, Traveler

Miami International Airport Welcomes American Express Centurion Lounge

By Gisel Habibnejad Photography Courtesy of American Express Do you have a fear of flying? American Express cardholders not only hold a card, they now hold the solution too. Last month, the American Express Centurion Lounge opened at the Miami International Airport. Now, flyers have a place to relax before and in-between flights. Located at the North Terminal near Gate D14, the lounge and all its amenities are complimentary for Amex Platinum and Centurion cardholders. For all other Amex cardholders, a $50 day pass must be purchased. Not too shabby! Upon entrance, guests are instantly greeted with a beautiful backdrop of the Amex signature luscious greenery at the front desk. It is only a few steps away from the Exhale Spa, made-up of 15-minute services such as chair massages, acupuncture, and mini manicures. Beyond that, the lounge area includes a bar, tables with seating, and couches for comfort. But who can forget that breathtaking view of the runway where you can watch airplanes takeoff and land? Across the way, a floor-to-ceiling window playroom for children is available where parents can watch from the lounge area. The bar comes equipped with a bartender who is ready to fix-up signature cocktails, or serve top shelf premium spirits and wines. Guests will also enjoy delicious meals by Miami’s very own chef Michelle Bernstein – so you know you can expect nothing less than top-rated dishes. Among the various options are: sour cream pancakes with candied pecans and caramelized bananas for breakfast; slow braised short rib of beef with natural jus and green faro as an entrée; and banana tres leches with dulce de leche pudding and fresh cream for dessert. Frequent flyers will be pleased to know the menu items rotate often. A conference room and several workspaces are dedicated to the business inclined, where flyers have a quiet area to work and also have access to high-speed Wi-Fi (available throughout the lounge). Personal computers, printers, fax and copy machines, and buffers to filter out the noise are among the other amenities available for use. In addition, guests can freshen up with shower suites and have access to luggage lockers. If that wasn’t enough, Amex concierge services are available to assist with flight information, changes, and future trip planning at your request. The 8,000 sq ft Centurion Lounge really commits to satisfying every need in order to ensure a relaxing atmosphere. You can find other American Express Centurion Lounges in Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, New York’s La Guardia Airport, and San Francisco International Airport. Each location contains artwork specific to the culture found at each destination. As you might’ve guessed, Miami’s is pleasantly decorated with photographs of Latin artists such as Enrique Iglesias and Pitbull. For more information on the American Express Centurion Lounge, please visit www.thecenturionlounge.com/locations/MIA Click here to view this post in the July/August digital issue. Click here to view the online issue.

Culinary, Culture, MSM Online, Traveler

Wine Bar War: Not Your Typical Wine Tasting

If you take 32 wines, 16 top Miami sommeliers, and 4 wine bars – what do you get? Wine Bar War! Well, not usually but in this particular case guests will enjoy lots of fun while tasting the best wines and experiencing each bar.  The idea of the event is a challenge between 4 wine bars. Each will be competing to recreate the best Chilean wine bars in one day. Who decides the winner? YOU. The lucky winners will win the chance to travel to Chile and several wineries in the area, courtesy of LAN Airlines, ProChile, and ChileTourism Board. Jealous? You’ll be happy to know that by voting, you will be entering in a sweepstakes for your chance to win a pair of Premium Business Class tickets as well! Huge plus: Latin American appetizers by Chef Kyle Cook will be available for guests to indulge in.  DETAILS: What: Wine Bar War Team Captains: Brian Grandison, Certified Sommerlier at Hakkasan Fontainbleau; Greg Rivera of The Breakers Palm Beach; Heath Porter, Advanced Sommerlier at Uvaggio Wine Bar; Amanda Fraga of Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink When: Thursday, June 18th at 7:00pm-10:00pm Where: The Moore Building – 191 NE 40th Street, Miami, FL 33137 Tickets: $40 per ticket – http://www.giltcity.com/miamiwinebarwarfortheloveofwinemiamijune2015/admin

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