Fiji has 333 sun-kissed, dramatically beautiful islands, of which just 111 are inhabited. The first time I came to Fiji several years ago I remember constantly looking over my shoulder on the airplane’s gangway, in baggage claim, customs, and immigration. Everyone was exuberantly calling out “Bula, bula” while broadly smiling. I had correctly assumed then it was the Fijian equivalent of the Hawaiian aloha, but what celebrity, diplomat, or political bigwig was right behind me in lockstep warranting such an overtly enthusiastic welcome? Full article by Julie L. Kessler.

There is certainly no shortage of luxury places to stay in beautiful locations. However, few places can compete with the ultra-luxury offerings of the fully-staffed Villa Avellana in Costa Rica’s Papagayo Peninsula. Julie L. Kessler shares her luxury experience at Villa Avellana.

Silversea Cruises launched the 12th ship of its ultra-luxury all-suite fleet with a pre-debut architectural voyage on the Silver Nova. Attending this four-night event departing from Trieste, Italy, it quickly became clear that this was no ordinary ship. The 728-passenger Silver Nova’s arrival – the largest of Silversea’s fleet – marks the cruise line’s milestone towards ‘Net Zero’ and is one of the most environmentally conscious, ultra-luxury ships ever built. At 801-feet long and 97-feet wide, its novel, sensational beauty is a sight to behold. Julie L. Kessler covers her experience on the madien voyage.

On a Saturday morning in February, temperatures hovering around 2 degrees Fahrenheit, who would consider jumping into an outdoor pool, even a heated one, in a snow-covered Quebec City, on the banks of the St. Lawrence River?  As it turns out, dozens of folks were lined up at the Strom Spa just as it opened, waiting in line to trade their boots and parkas for rubber slippers and robes, and I’m so happy I was one of them. Terri Colby shares her experience in Quebec City.

Located in the heart of Miami Beach, at The Palms Hotel & Spa, sits Essensia Restaurant & Bar—a South Beach dining destination purposefully designed to nurture both its guests and the planet. This sanctuary for the senses offers healthfully prepared Mediterr-Asian dishes exemplifying bold flavors mindfully sourced ingredients. Merilee Kern interviews Tanja Morariu, Director of Marketing & Head of Sustainability at The Palms Hotel & Spa.

Kevin Pilley explores ROMEO Hotels, owned by lawyer Alfredo Romeo, has hotels in Rome and another one planned for the Sorrentine peninsula.  They house Mr Romeo’s extensive art collection. His hotels are “dedicated to relaxation and aesthetic allure.” As well as “sanctifying the simple perfection of everyday objects.”

Nestled at the end of a secluded country road, Rockin’ Star Ranch is located between Houston and Austin, Texas. This family-owned and operated working ranch is one of the most popular wedding and vacation destinations in the state. Sitting on 150 acres of open pastures filled with cattle, those seeking their inner cowboy or cowgirl will appreciate the beauty and serenity of the ranch. Weddings include exclusive access to the ranch, a bridal suite, luxe accommodations, enchanting ceremonies, versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces, immersive activities, and personalized experiences. Jill Weinlein shares her adventures at Rockin' Star Ranch!

Driving through the Milk & Honey Ranch gates, guests will see Texas Longhorns and miniature Scottish Highland cows nibbling on tender grass blades. Flocks of guinea hens scurry along dirt paths, and tiny goats buck and play in a fenced pen. Visitors immediately feel welcomed at this private ranch sanctuary. Listen in to hear all that Milk & Honey Ranch has to offer!

Tamil love for food would beggar even the proverbial Punjabi obsession with food. The first question you will ever be asked in Tamil Nadu is “Sapadingla?” “Have you eaten?…” The Tamils need no excuse to eat. The Christmas holiday season, the best time to visit Chennai, is when travellers flock to the city pulsating with Music and Dance concerts that occur during the Tamil month of Marghazi (15 Dec-12 Jan) culminating in Pongal. It’s the season to splurge. And here are some of the city’s glitziest gourmet offerings, from the perennial classics to recently launched contemporary innovations.