Stephanie Ziskal 
Chattanooga has changed a lot in recent years, as this outdoorsy capital is starting to be known for more than just Ruby Falls and Rock City. The Edwin Hotel stands out as an example of that evolution. The contemporary structure projects an identity in this officially “cool” city with its … Read more
I spotted the iconic 660-foot front porch of the Grand Hotel from the ferry to Mackinac Island. From a distance I could see the massive white structure on a hill in stark contrast to the deep green of the surrounding trees and the rich blue waters of Lake Huron. As … Read more
Have you ever thought about a summer trip to northern Michigan? Perhaps the ‘Pure Michigan’ commercials made you curious? Being an East Coaster, I was intrigued by the idea of a Midwest version of Cape Cod. Michigan has hundreds of miles of lakeshore all with nearly perfect summer temperatures. I … Read more
Surprisingly, perfectly nestled in an Allegheny Mountain range, one can find the best place to experience Virginia’s dichotomy of history and natural beauty. The Omni Homestead Resort and Spa is a towering and commanding brick structure that seems to rise out of a valley that’s surrounded by mountains. The historic … Read more
Anticipation is building as we eagerly ascend in altitude and navigate our way through towering canyons towards Park City, Utah. After a lengthy day of flying (including a layover and a hefty delay) we are relieved at how convenient accessing Park City is from the airport. Soon enough we were … Read more
Dozens of silk lanterns fly like butterflies around the exterior of this Asian inspired epicurean shrine in Park City, Utah. Main St. may be lined with top-rated restaurants in a ski resort that rivals Aspen at this time of year (forget booking a hotel room during Sundance!) but it’s impossible … Read more
Fortunately my legs got a break after six hours of straight downhill skiing (and a few wipeouts), when I found my sanctuary at Cordillera Lodge & Spa. I was thrilled to recline, give my thighs a break and refuel on a bowl of chili washed down with a warm cup … Read more
Situated on 40 acres in a quiet corner of Aspen, Colorado and surrounded by snowcapped mountains, the Aspen Meadows Resort is one of the most unique hotels west of the Mississippi. Slightly removed from the flurry of town but within easy walking distance to Ajax Mountain and Aspen’s many restaurants … Read more
Family. Nature. Comfort. These three words perfectly describe South Seas Island Resort, a three hour drive northwest of Miami on Captiva Island, accessible by car from Sanibel Island via Blind Pass Bridge. Put all preconceived notions aside, this is no stereotypical Florida resort but one with a special natural beauty … Read more
Anticipation builds as I exit Miami’s frantic turnpike and begin my journey on U.S. 1 to the Florida Keys. Soon the gawking billboards disappear and I find myself on a simple two-lane road with turquoise water on both sides. I’m finding my way to Casa Morada, an all-suite boutique hotel … Read more
Warm coral walls accented by soothing sand beige drapes are immediate eye candy as the scent of mango candles and the sound of a soothing water wall almost put you in a trance at the entrance to the Ritz Carlton Spa on Key Biscayne, Florida. Every detail here has been … Read more
Natural mineral hot springs have been a source of healing and relaxation for centuries. One example of this geothermal phenomenon, where the water temperature is above body temperature, is the Boyes Hot Springs in Sonoma, California. The Native Americans of Northern California were the first to identify the underground … Read more
When Italians came to San Francisco in the 1800’s, they brought with them their talent for combining fresh local ingredients in their food, creating new specialties. In this northern California coastal city, one of these was a seafood stew called Cioppino (after Ciuppin a soup from Genoa), perfected by mixing … Read more
At the entrance to Azul in the stunning Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Miami, a dazzling white marble open kitchen catches your eye. Here is where you can observe true culinary art at work. The remarkable ambience with floor to ceiling windows showcasing the romantic Bay of Biscayne is fitting for a restaurant … Read more
What makes The Spa at Miami’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Florida’s only five star rated spa by Forbes travel guide? Forbes was clearly impressed, first, by the intimate lobby scented with jasmine and toned by tranquil music. Guests are treated like royalty at this posh but not pretentious resort away from … Read more