A-listers always know what’s hot, which is why summer is such a suitable time for a celebrity wedding. But it also translates well for the hoi polloi, as those who decide to tie the knot in June, July or August are savvy enough to realize that tropical locations are picture-perfect … Read more
I see London, I see France, I see Marilyn’s underpants … There’s little doubt of Marilyn Monroe’s predominance as America’s iconic sex symbol. One of the most timeless and well-known images of Marilyn has her standing over the subway grates in a white halter dress as the wind blows her … Read more
The Hudson River School was a mid-19th century group of landscape painters noted for their romantic depiction of America’s rapidly changing landscape. Named for the region in which the movement originally began, the paintings depicted the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains and surrounding areas. Thomas Cole, considered the founder of the … Read more
Are you ready for Montreal’s third annual Queer of the Year competition? Yup, you’ve read that correctly. Five finalists will be flown to Montreal while it’s in full bloom for Gay Pride week (Aug 13-19) for an all expense paid trip. Finalists will be judged in a series of “social … Read more
When I lived in West Germany before the fall of the Berlin Wall, cities across the border in the Communist East Bloc seemed a world away. Any travel to East Germany was especially restricted, and the red tape required for visiting wasn’t worth the hassle. But all that has changed, … Read more
Here’s an idea for a summer destination: anywhere in Ishikawa. Bordered by the Japan Sea on the western coast of Japan, this prefecture perfectly lends itself to outdoor sports and relaxation. Just so you know what to expect, Kanazawa, the most well-known city in Ishikawa, rightfully boasts of Japan’s best … Read more
A large open air patio cooled by swirling ceiling fans lures you into Landhuis Daniel, a stunning tropical setting that appears at the end of a drive down a long country road. Chirping crickets and the bling of an occasional firefly provide the perfect setting for romance, along with world … Read more
A striking amber chandelier leads the way into Selene’s dining room. It definitely belongs in the Dale Chihuly school of art glass fixtures but it has a freeform composition that can only be the representation of the Greek spirit. It’s also emblematic of the restaurant’s inventiveness, the glow casting a … Read more
A gleaming disco ball under a neon canopy greets you at Cabana Beach along with a “friendly” beach person. After all this is a beach restaurant and guards are down. Groovy retro sounds from the sixties, seventies and eighties se the mood and the lounge atmosphere fits perfectly with the … Read more
One of the most exciting events in art news this summer is the opening of the new building housing Philadelphia’s famous Barnes Foundation’s collection of masterpieces. Albert C. Barnes amassed a fortune in the early 20th century developing pharmaceuticals. With the subsequent sale of his company, he became a passionate … Read more
So, you’re planning a vacation. Maybe you’re still in the early stages of the process – you haven’t picked a destination, and you’re not clear yet on the exact dates. Maybe you’re not even sure who’s going with you or how you’re getting there. Maybe you’re weeping under a pile … Read more
On the easternmost tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, the crown jewel of Riviera Maya basks in shimmering turquoise waters, the hot Caribbean sun, and the glory of being named the top international travel destination of 2012, according to Orbitz.com. But besides the white sand beaches, swaying palm trees and bottomless … Read more
The Radisson Blu brand has arrived in the U.S. and landed in downtown Chicago in the Aqua Tower, an 18 story building designed by environmentally conscious architect, Jeanne Gang, of Studio Gang Architects. The building was designed with a lot of open space that is immediately noticeable in the public … Read more
If someone came up with the wild idea to start rating hotels by their gyms, Hotel Avila would be at the top. How many times have we suffered through vacations with only a stationary bicycle in a hot room with no air conditioning? Too many, I’m afraid. Guess what? Get … Read more
*With contributions by Sarah Meyer The town of Oia on the Greek island of Santorini is the new kid on the block. A beautifully scenic 20 minute drive north from Fira, the capital of the island and the major draw, it’s the Malibu to Fira’s Beverly Hills. Smaller and more … Read more