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Business Meets Bliss: A Review of The Fairmont Century Plaza
Century City holds a special place in my heart. It was here that I started my first “big girl” job as a receptionist, explored Beverly Hills for the first time, and reveled in the energy of being young in Los Angeles. Over a decade later, I returned to find the area transformed—some changes subtle, others dramatic. At the
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A Design Lover’s Retreat: My Stay at Santa Monica’s Proper Hotel
Returning to Los Angeles always feels like reconnecting with an old friend, but this time, I decided to explore the city from a fresh perspective. My stay at Santa Monica’s Proper Hotel, part of the prestigious Marriott Design Hotels collection, offered just that—a balance of familiar comfort and refined luxury, set against the vibrant backdrop of one of
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Planting Your Autumn Garden: A Guide to Starting and Sustaining a Fall Harvest
As the final week of my collaboration with Victoria over at The Young Homestead approaches, I’m delighted to share a glimpse into one of my favorite pastimes: planting an autumn garden. Living in France’s beautiful Loire Valley has given me ample opportunity to embrace gardening, a soulful activity that’s more than just planting seeds. With every handful of
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Turning Surplus into Snacks: One-Bowl Chocolate Chip Banana Nut Bread
In a world that constantly encourages us to consume more, sometimes the most rewarding thing we can do is pause and make the most of what we already have. This week, Victoria from the Young Homestead and I are diving into the heart of this philosophy: turning surplus into delicious, simple snacks that bring the family together. For
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Back to Basics: Crafting Perfect Challah for Your Weekly Table
This week’s "Back to Basics" series with Victoria at The Young Homestead is all about bread. From sourdough starters to traditional challah, we’re delving into the heart of breadmaking—an art form that has brought warmth, nourishment, and community to homes for centuries.For me, challah is more than just a recipe; it’s a ritual. Every Friday, we set aside
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Crafting Homemade Sauerkraut and Embracing the Benefits of Fermented Foods
In our fast-paced world, where meals are often chosen for convenience, there’s a real magic in returning to the basics of food preparation. Taking time to make food from scratch doesn’t just reconnect us with nature; it reminds us of the care and intention behind each ingredient. Having spent years building a homestead on 56 acres, I’ve seen
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Raffles at the OWO: Elegance & Tranquility in the Heart of London
When you think of London, images of historical grandeur and modern sophistication come to mind. But it’s not often that a place embodies both as seamlessly as Raffles London. Recently, I had the chance to experience this stunning new hotel, part of the prestigious Accor group, and I must say, my expectations were not only met—they were completely
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Le Garden: A Hidden Culinary Gem in Langeais
Tucked away in the charming and historic town of Langeais, Le Garden Restaurant stands as a delightful surprise. Located in what seems like an unlikely spot—a grocery-centered parking area—you might not expect much more than convenience from such a location. But don’t let the surroundings fool you. Le Garden offers a dining experience that will leave you enchanted,
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The Glacier Express
The Glacier Express first landed on my radar in a travel video showcasing its breathtaking Alpine views, and from that moment, it became a bucket list adventure. There’s something irresistibly romantic about train travel—perhaps it’s the nostalgic allure of old films, the graceful glide of the carriages, or the timelessness of it all. For me, the Glacier Express
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The Fairmont Grand Del Mar: A Hidden Gem of Quiet Luxury in San Diego
Tucked away in the rolling hills of San Diego, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar is a full-scale resort that offers a blend of elegance and tranquility, providing everything from world-class golf and horseback riding to serene pools and a spa that could only be described as a sanctuary. For those in search of quiet luxury, far from the