In need of a fabulous vacay? These tips will help you stretch your coins and get more out of your next getaway.
Looking for a luxe vacation on a budget? Maybe you’ve decided to throw caution to the wind and become a digital nomad. The biggest obstacle to turning your travel dreams into a reality is a spending plan.
If you’re looking for ways to maximize your travel funds – or stay on the road as long as possible – read on. These tips will help you stretch your coins and get more out of your getaway.
Shop the deal, not the destination.
Most of us, when deciding on a vacation destination, start by narrowing down the list of places we’d like to visit. Once we’ve settled on a locale, we then search for flights, hotels, activities, and tours.
If you want your dollars to take your further in our big, wide world, try doing the opposite. Start by searching for deals anywhere.
Be open to locations you might not have considered for a getaway. Most travel sites like Google Flights and Momondo now have the option to “Explore Anywhere” by date.
There are tons of interesting destinations to explore – from major tourist hubs to off-the-beaten-path hidden gems. Choose a destination by cost to value and watch your travel fund take you further.
Grab a great travel credit card.
Before you hit the road, grab a credit card that will protect you as you travel and reward you for your purchases. Cards like the American Express Platinum card and the Chase Sapphire line – both Preferred and Reserve – offer great rewards points rates and the ability to transfer points to hotels and airlines.
Add their purchase protection policies, travel insurance, and lack of foreign transaction fees, and they’ll prove to be useful tools in your travel arsenal.
Make airport navigation a breeze.
If you’ve ever been through a busy airport, you know how important it is to be efficient and minimize stress.
Today, there are tons of modern programs designed to help you navigate security and arrive at your gate worry-free. If you haven’t applied for TSA PreCheck, this is your sign. Having a Known Traveler Number is a strong value-add for any girl on the go.
You’ll enter security through a dedicated lane where wait times are often significantly shorter than the general security lines. Better still, there’s no requirement to remove your shoes or electronics. The $85 fee gives you access for five years, and many top-tier credit cards now cover the cost.
Traveler Pro-tip: If you travel internationally, apply for the Global Entry program instead of TSA PreCheck. Global Entry gives you access to a dedicated re-entry lane when returning from any trip abroad and includes TSA PreCheck. The application fee is $100, and approval also lasts for five years.
Add a little luxe with lounge access.
Have you ever felt like you needed a vacation after your vacation? It’s no surprise – travel can be stressful, and long days spent in terminals surrounded by strangers can be daunting. That’s where lounge access comes in.
Once thought to only be accessible to the business class traveler or the wealthy, lounges have become far more popular in recent years. Partnerships between major airlines and high-end credit card merchants have made the lounge experience more egalitarian than ever.
If you’re looking to relax away from the crowds in the main terminal, a lounge visit may be ideal. Most offer a reasonable food spread, beverage options and more comfortable seating than the main public areas. Some add on rest areas, massages, showers, and other specialty amenities.
Ready to luxuriate in the lounge before your next flight? Check your credit cards to see if you have complimentary Priority Pass membership.
It will give you access to hundreds of lounges around the world. If not, the American Express Platinum card offers Priority Pass and access to its global network of Centurion Lounges.
If membership isn’t available through a credit card, check your ticket type. Many business-class or above tickets include complimentary lounge access.
Some airline lounges also offer day passes for purchase. Be sure to check online for availability before arrival.
However you choose to access a lounge, your trip is bound to a bit more comfy because of it.
Pre-purchase airport transport.
While we recommend experiencing local public transport in the cities you visit, trying to grab a bus after a flight is not the time to do it. Public transport to and from an airport can be challenging – especially if you don’t speak the language.
Put your mind at ease by pre-arranging your airport to hotel transfer. If your accommodations offer an airport shuttle, take advantage.
Otherwise, research transfer options and book prior to arriving. If you make your hotel reservations through a 3rd party booking provider, you’ll often be offered a transfer deal on the confirmation page. Keep an eye out for it.
Become elite (with your favorite hotels).
An easy way to enjoy luxe perks on your next trip is to achieve elite status with your favorite hotel group. Every program is free to join, and you receive credit toward elite status with every affiliated hotel stay.
Why Elite Status Matters
Becoming an elite guest of your favorite hotel group gives you access to additional amenities and features not usually offered to the average guest. Status can give you early/late checkout, complimentary breakfast or dining credit, club level access, bonus points toward free future stays and much more.
If you’re not signed up with all the hotels you regularly visit, do it today. Right now.
You deserve the most bang for your buck when planning a vacation.
In a world where prices seem to be increasing by the day, the luxury of travel may feel out of reach. It doesn’t have to be. If you implement a few of these tips, your travel dollars will take you further.
GO! There’s nothing -including money – stopping you.
Looking for tips on solo travel? Check out Bankable for more.
Light It Up: 5 Black-Owned Candle Companies that Will Make Your Home Smell Divine
HomeBlack-owned candle companies are infusing the home fragrance world with unique scents inspired by our style and culture. Read on to discover some of the brightest stars in Black home fragrance. We’re sure you’ll find your next favorite burn.
Tasting Excellence: Unveiling the Best Black-Owned Wineries in America
Food & WineWine is a delight loved and enjoyed by every culture. Yet, for too long, the voices and talents of Black winemakers have been overshadowed by the mainstream narrative.
As an oenophile with an insatiable taste for adventure and a penchant for discovering hidden gems, I’ve embarked on a quest to unearth the finest Black-owned wineries in the country. This journey celebrates our diversity, creativity, and love for the gilded grape.
These visionary vintners are not only masters of their craft but also trailblazers who are reshaping the landscape of the wine industry with their innovation, passion, and dedication.
Come along, fellow wine enthusiasts, as we uncork the vibrant world of the best Black-owned wineries in America.
1. Brown Estate – Napa Valley, California
Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, Brown Estate stands as a testament to the pioneering spirit of the Brown family. Founded in 1995 by siblings Deneen, David, and Coral Brown, this historic estate produces exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of their vineyards.
From their acclaimed Zinfandels to their elegant Chardonnays, each bottle tells a story of craftsmanship and resilience, earning Brown Estate a well-deserved place among California’s elite wineries.
My first experience of the brand was a rave recommendation of their Chardonnay from the purser in Delta One, and I’ve been an avid fan since. If you don’t have a long-haul flight planned anytime soon, don’t let that stop you. Grab a bottle from your favorite local retailer. You won’t regret it.
2. Abbey Creek Vineyard – North Plains, Oregon
Tucked away in the picturesque hills of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, Abbey Creek Vineyard is a labor of love for winemaker Bertony Faustin. As Oregon’s first Black winemaker, Faustin is breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes with his award-winning wines and irreverent spirit.
From the vineyard’s soulful Pinot Noirs to its refreshing Rosés, each bottle reflects Faustin’s commitment to authenticity and innovation, earning Abbey Creek Vineyard a devoted following and a place on our list of must-visit wineries.
3. Theopolis Vineyards – Yorkville Highlands, California
Named after owner and winemaker Theodora Lee, Theopolis Vineyards is a boutique winery nestled in the rugged hills of Mendocino County. Known for its bold and expressive wines, Theopolis Vineyards specializes in small-lot productions of Petite Sirah, Rosé of Petite Sirah, and Symphony.
Lee’s dedication to sustainable farming practices and meticulous attention to detail shine through in every sip, making Theopolis Vineyards a destination for wine enthusiasts seeking something truly extraordinary.
For those who prefer whites, the Symphony is truly an experience not to be missed.
These fabulous wines would be perfect for spring entertaining! Click here to read our top 7 tips for throwing a fabulous fete.
4. L’Objet Wines – Sonoma County, California
With a name inspired by the French word for “the object,” L’Objet Wines is a passion project for founder and winemaker Mouton Leonard. Located in Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley, this boutique winery is known for its limited-production Red Blends and Pinot Noirs, which showcase the region’s renowned terroir with elegance and finesse.
Leonard’s commitment to sustainability and his bold approach to winemaking have earned L’Objet Wines a reputation for excellence in the world of fine wine.
5. McBride Sisters Collection – Various Locations
If you’ve expressed even a passing interest in wine over the past several years, you’ve probably heard of the McBride sisters. In fact, you may have heard of them before you ever took a sip of one of their delightful creations. A story of sisterhood, resilience, and determination, the McBride Sisters Wine Company is a trailblazing force in the world of wine.
Ever had Black Girl Magic wine? That is a McBride Sisters production.
Founded by Robin and Andréa McBride, sisters who grew up a world apart and met for the first time in 1999, this groundbreaking winery is a celebration of family, friendship, and the power of following your dreams.
With vineyards in California’s Central Coast and New Zealand’s Marlborough region, the McBride Sisters Collection offers a diverse portfolio of wines, from crisp Sauvignon Blancs to rich Cabernet Sauvignons, each one a testament to the sisters’ unwavering passion and commitment to excellence.
6. Charles Wine Company (Sonoma, California)
If you’re searching for wines that are as bold and unapologetic as they come, look no further than Charles Wine Company. Founded by Paul & Cherise Charles, maverick winemakers with a knack for pushing boundaries, this multi-vineyard operation is all about crafting wines that defy convention and expectations.
The couple did extensive research prior to founding the vineyard, scouring the country – and eventually the world – to discover what made great wine.
From crisp Chardonnay to rich Pinot Noir, each bottle is a testament to the Charles’s adventurous spirit and their commitment to making wine that speaks to the soul.
7. Maison Noir Wines (McMinnville, Oregon)
Last, but certainly not least, is Maison Noir Wines – the brainchild of renowned sommelier and winemaker André Hueston Mack. Drawing inspiration from his background in fine dining and his love of hip-hop culture, André creates wines that are as bold, vibrant, and eclectic as the man himself.
With playful names like “O.P.P.,” “Gamma Ray,” and “Love Drunk,” Maison Noir Wines invite wine lovers to embrace the unexpected. The wines themselves, and their monikers, bear strong parallels to things our community knows and loves. Mack brings all his passion and knowledge to bear to craft an unforgettable portfolio of offerings.
Salute to the Innovators of American Wine
The world of wine is a rich tapestry woven from the diverse voices, talents, and experiences of visionary winemakers like those featured.
From the sun-drenched vineyards of California to the rolling hills of Oregon, these Black-owned wineries are redefining the standards of excellence and shaping the future of American winemaking. Raise a glass and toast the pioneers, innovators, and trailblazers who continue to inspire us with their passion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to crafting wines that elevate the spirit. Cheers!
What’s your favorite Black-owned winery? Who should we profile next? Share your favorite vintners & varietals in the comments!
Getaway Guides: Antalya – Coastal Paradise, City of Dreams
Getaway GuidesLocated on the famed Turquoise Coast of Turkiye, the ancient city of Antalya, and the surrounding region of the same name, has a host of fabulous places to explore.
Check out this Bon Vie Getaway Guide for a sneak peek of what you’ll experience when you visit.
Elevate Your Spring Entertaining: 7 Tips for Hosting an Effortlessly Fabulous Fête
Entertaining, LifestyleHere in the Northern Hemisphere, Spring has officially sprung!
As the season blossoms in all its glory, it’s time to embrace the joy of entertaining again. Whether you’re planning a lavish garden soiree or an intimate dinner party, consider these seven tips as you prepare for an unforgettable spring gathering.
Illuminate pathways and seating areas with soft, ambient lighting, such as string lights or elegant lanterns, to create a magical atmosphere as the sun sets. Consider playing soft background music to set the mood and enhance the overall ambiance of your gathering.
For an extra touch of luxury, consider hiring a private chef to create a bespoke dining experience tailored especially to you and your guests’ tastes.
Elevate Your Libations. Impress your guests with a well-curated selection of artisanal cocktails, fine wines, and premium spirits. Signature cocktails featuring seasonal fruits and herbs are the perfect sophisticated twist for any event.
For a memorable touch, consider hosting a wine tasting or mixology workshop led by a knowledgeable sommelier or bartender, allowing guests to expand their horizons while enjoying the company of friends and loved ones.
Celebrate spring by honoring Earth Day. Discover 3 great ways to mark the holiday.
Master the Art of Tablescaping. The table is a crucial element of any culinary affair. Set yours with exquisite or eclectic linens, fine china, and elegant tableware to make a memorable statement. Incorporating seasonal elements such as floral centerpieces, and botanical-inspired accents will evoke the spirit of spring.
Thoughtful touches such as personalized place cards or handwritten menus will add a personalized touch your guest won’t soon forget.
For a more intimate affair, consider hosting a themed movie night or arranging an art exhibition featuring local artists. Tailor the entertainment to suit the preferences of your guests, so that everyone feels included and entertained throughout the event.
The little touches matter. Offer items such as sunscreen, insect repellent, and blankets to ensure that guests feel comfortable throughout the duration of the gathering. Hiring professional waitstaff or event coordinators will allow you to focus on mingling with your guests and enjoying the festivities.
For your most important events, hire a professional photographer to immortalize special moments and ensure that you have beautiful mementos to cherish for years to come. Share highlights from the event on social media platforms or create a custom photo album as a thoughtful keepsake for your guests to treasure.
Preparing to entertain this spring is an opportunity to create unforgettable experiences and meaningful connections with your dear friends. By following these seven tips, you can elevate your gatherings to new heights of luxury and sophistication, and ensure that each event is a reflection of your impeccable taste and hospitality.
Embrace the beauty of the season, indulge in delicious culinary delights, and revel in the joy of bringing people together this time of year.
Are you hosting any spring events? Share your best entertaining tips with other readers in the comments.
It’s Our World: 3 Ways to Honor Earth Day
Lifestyle, TrendingIf you haven’t thought about Earth Day since elementary school, it’s time to think again.
The mission of EarthDay.org is “to diversify, educate and activate the environmental movement worldwide.” Black people have been at the forefront of conservation, sustainability, and environmental wellness since time immemorial. Celebrating Earth Day is an extension of our ancestors’ intentions.
Stories about climate change and environmentalism don’t often include or highlight Black activists, so it’s easy to forget how involved Black people are in environmental justice work.
Here’s Why You Should Care
According to the NAACP, Black people are 56% more likely to breathe air pollution that we did not cause, and 75% more likely to live near oil and gas refineries.
Negative climate and environmental conditions tend to adversely impact Black communities more deeply than others. The health of the Earth directly affects Black health outcomes.
How to Get Involved
If you haven’t celebrated Earth Day in a while, here are three fun ways to honor Mother Nature this year:
Plant something.
Whether it’s a tree to help clean the air, a perennial garden in your community, or vegetables for a bountiful summer harvest, putting something in the soil this April 22nd will benefit Planet Earth.
Make a commitment to nurture your new plot and you’ll be helping heal the world in no time.
Spring clean & recycle.
By clearing out old clutter and recycling things you no longer need, you’ll extend the lifecycle of useful items and keep them out of our overflowing landfills.
The more ways we find to be sustainable today, the better for future generations of Black folk.
Support an organization on the front lines.
Every step we take for environmental justice and wellness counts. So do our dollars. Research Black-founded and led environment focused organizations and donate to show your support for the cause. Organizations like Blacks in Green (BIG) do the work of educating and advocating every day, and could use our help. Find an org you resonate with and give generously.
What you do for the Earth every day makes a difference for our people everywhere. Let this Earth Day be a kickoff for lifelong sustainable living!
Do you celebrate Earth Day? Share your tips for honoring Mother Earth in the comments.
Written In the Sky: Hermès Releases New Arceau Petite Lune Ciel Étoilé Timepiece
LuxuryThe luxury brand strives to capture the essence of the night sky in instant classic.
Hermès released its new Arceau Petite Lune Ciel Étoilé timepiece to great acclaim in March 2024. The watch sports a magnificent celestially inspired design. True to its name, “Little Moon in Starry Sky,” the piece’s diamond-set, blue gradient mother-of-pearl dial evokes thoughts of a glittering night sky in miniature.
The watch’s 38mm steel case features a dropped setting, and an anti-glare sapphire crystal and back. The bezel is a standout, encircling the crystal and dial with 70 inset diamonds. An interchangeable, blue sapphire alligator skin strap adds to the luxe look and feel of the offering.
Hermès tapped artisans in Switzerland for the manufacture of the piece, ensuring that both its movement and craftsmanship are exceptional. It is crafted with Hermès’s signature H1837 movement, which references the year the Maison was founded.
Overall, this timepiece is a fabulous display of Hermès’s design prowess and craftsmanship. It is a reminder that the brand has always been committed to both form and function in its design aesthetic. The watch’s classic style and understated elegance make it an infinitely wearable piece, with its midnight blue palette functioning as a near-neutral. The Arceau Petite Lune Ciel Étoilé is poised to be an icon for the house, and an instant classic for any collector.
For additional information on pricing and availability, visit Hermes.com.
Image courtesy of the brand.
We Came Together, We Leave Together: How to Survive a Girls’ Trip
TrendingHow a Girls’ Trip to Cabo Sparked a Very Necessary Conversation about Finances and Friendship
Unless you’ve been under a social media rock, you’ve seen the recent bombardment of posts about the #cabogirlstrip. As the story goes, a group of young women set off for the idyllic destination to celebrate the birthday of a girl in their friend group.
The saga of Kaleah Denise, Nutella, and Nunu has kept the internet ablaze over the past several days.
Despite the best intentions, the trip got off to a rocky start due to financial disagreements between a few girls who didn’t know each other well.
It seems it was all downhill from there.
The posts began spreading like wildfire before the trip even ended and the frenzy only grew after the crew returned and more girls added their perspective.
Even though it’s been reported that much of the original story was…unreliable at best, the incident has inspired conversation across the web about finances, expectations, and the bonds of friendship on girls’ trips.
If you’re planning a girls’ trip and you prefer fun in the sun to fussing over finances, here are a few tips to ensure your friend group comes back intact.
Keep the group tight.
If you have a wide circle of friends, it’s natural to want to introduce them and hope everyone hits it off. A girls’ trip is not the place for said intros. The best travel partners are those who know each other well in advance, get along, and understand each other’s lifestyles and travel tastes.
No one wants to be stuck with a girl she doesn’t vibe with for a week.
Stick to this rule: No new friends on girls’ trips.
Ladies, leave your man at home.
This should go without saying, but it’s called a girls’ trip for a reason – no boys (or baes) allowed. If your bestie can’t stand to be separated from her new boo – physically or virtually – this isn’t the trip for her. Partners (of either gender) should not be included on a girls’ trip.
The presence of a couple will ruin the dynamic of the group, and often puts a damper on excursions and activities. Sweethearts are for couples’ trips only.
Travel in your tax bracket.
Social media has conditioned us to think that every black girls’ trip is a luxury getaway where the girls cash out like Griselda Blanco. That simply isn’t the case.
Communicating the style of trip (luxury, mid-range, budget-friendly, etc.) and an estimated budget is key to a friction-free girls’ trip. Let your friends decide how much they can splash out to be included in the fun. If someone can’t tag along on the baller trips, don’t make them feel shame for it, either.
Talk travel styles before you take off.
If you and your crew have decided this girls’ trip is worth the trouble, your group chat should be humming. More important than what getaway outfits you’re packing is clear communication about your group’s preferred travel styles.
People view vacations differently. Some want to spend all day relaxing with a cocktail by the pool. Others want to mix it up with the locals and see all the hottest sights. Some love a packed itinerary. Others hate it.
Looking for a luxury getaway? Start your search with this fabulous SE Asia hotel.
Do you know your girls?
The quickest way to ruin what could be a fabulous girls’ getaway is mismatched travel expectations. Before you book anything, talk it out.
Communicate the potential plans and activities in advance. Allow your friends to decide if the itinerary and style of travel is a fit for them.
If some girls decide the itinerary isn’t their style, but they choose to come hang out anyway, be graceful with those who skip a few excursions. Your group will thank you for it.
We came together; we leave together.
Every Black girl who’s ever spent a night out with her crew knows this adage. For the sake of safety and camaraderie, it goes back as far as time.
The same applies when traveling away from home.
No matter how wild, heated, or frustrated the group gets, you need to stick together and look out for one another. When you’re in an unfamiliar place far from home, your girls are all you’ve got.
Never let petty squabbles put any of your friends in harm’s way.
Even if you discover that the relationship is no longer viable after the trip, your number one priority must be that the entire group make it home safely.
We’ve seen and heard too many stories of vibrant, young Black women who travel together and someone doesn’t make it back. Don’t let that be you – or anyone you know.
Whatever the issue, your safety matters more.
Do your best. Don’t stress the rest.
No matter your intentions, sometimes girls’ trips don’t go to plan. Social media is littered with horror stories of broken friendships and travel misunderstandings.
Even though you may not be able to avoid every mishap on your next girls’ adventure, these tips will help you and your crew get along and – hopefully – make it home unscathed.
If not, just try to keep it off social media.
Cheers to a summer of fun and memories – without the frustration.
Have you ever survived a girls’ trip gone wrong? Give us your tips in the comments!
Cash Me If You Can: The Savvy Girl’s Guide to Wallet Smart Travel
On the MoneyIn need of a fabulous vacay? These tips will help you stretch your coins and get more out of your next getaway.
Looking for a luxe vacation on a budget? Maybe you’ve decided to throw caution to the wind and become a digital nomad. The biggest obstacle to turning your travel dreams into a reality is a spending plan.
If you’re looking for ways to maximize your travel funds – or stay on the road as long as possible – read on. These tips will help you stretch your coins and get more out of your getaway.
Shop the deal, not the destination.
Most of us, when deciding on a vacation destination, start by narrowing down the list of places we’d like to visit. Once we’ve settled on a locale, we then search for flights, hotels, activities, and tours.
If you want your dollars to take your further in our big, wide world, try doing the opposite. Start by searching for deals anywhere.
Be open to locations you might not have considered for a getaway. Most travel sites like Google Flights and Momondo now have the option to “Explore Anywhere” by date.
There are tons of interesting destinations to explore – from major tourist hubs to off-the-beaten-path hidden gems. Choose a destination by cost to value and watch your travel fund take you further.
Grab a great travel credit card.
Before you hit the road, grab a credit card that will protect you as you travel and reward you for your purchases. Cards like the American Express Platinum card and the Chase Sapphire line – both Preferred and Reserve – offer great rewards points rates and the ability to transfer points to hotels and airlines.
Add their purchase protection policies, travel insurance, and lack of foreign transaction fees, and they’ll prove to be useful tools in your travel arsenal.
Make airport navigation a breeze.
If you’ve ever been through a busy airport, you know how important it is to be efficient and minimize stress.
Today, there are tons of modern programs designed to help you navigate security and arrive at your gate worry-free. If you haven’t applied for TSA PreCheck, this is your sign. Having a Known Traveler Number is a strong value-add for any girl on the go.
You’ll enter security through a dedicated lane where wait times are often significantly shorter than the general security lines. Better still, there’s no requirement to remove your shoes or electronics. The $85 fee gives you access for five years, and many top-tier credit cards now cover the cost.
Traveler Pro-tip: If you travel internationally, apply for the Global Entry program instead of TSA PreCheck. Global Entry gives you access to a dedicated re-entry lane when returning from any trip abroad and includes TSA PreCheck. The application fee is $100, and approval also lasts for five years.
Add a little luxe with lounge access.
Have you ever felt like you needed a vacation after your vacation? It’s no surprise – travel can be stressful, and long days spent in terminals surrounded by strangers can be daunting. That’s where lounge access comes in.
Once thought to only be accessible to the business class traveler or the wealthy, lounges have become far more popular in recent years. Partnerships between major airlines and high-end credit card merchants have made the lounge experience more egalitarian than ever.
If you’re looking to relax away from the crowds in the main terminal, a lounge visit may be ideal. Most offer a reasonable food spread, beverage options and more comfortable seating than the main public areas. Some add on rest areas, massages, showers, and other specialty amenities.
Ready to luxuriate in the lounge before your next flight? Check your credit cards to see if you have complimentary Priority Pass membership.
It will give you access to hundreds of lounges around the world. If not, the American Express Platinum card offers Priority Pass and access to its global network of Centurion Lounges.
If membership isn’t available through a credit card, check your ticket type. Many business-class or above tickets include complimentary lounge access.
Some airline lounges also offer day passes for purchase. Be sure to check online for availability before arrival.
However you choose to access a lounge, your trip is bound to a bit more comfy because of it.
Pre-purchase airport transport.
While we recommend experiencing local public transport in the cities you visit, trying to grab a bus after a flight is not the time to do it. Public transport to and from an airport can be challenging – especially if you don’t speak the language.
Put your mind at ease by pre-arranging your airport to hotel transfer. If your accommodations offer an airport shuttle, take advantage.
Otherwise, research transfer options and book prior to arriving. If you make your hotel reservations through a 3rd party booking provider, you’ll often be offered a transfer deal on the confirmation page. Keep an eye out for it.
Become elite (with your favorite hotels).
An easy way to enjoy luxe perks on your next trip is to achieve elite status with your favorite hotel group. Every program is free to join, and you receive credit toward elite status with every affiliated hotel stay.
Why Elite Status Matters
Becoming an elite guest of your favorite hotel group gives you access to additional amenities and features not usually offered to the average guest. Status can give you early/late checkout, complimentary breakfast or dining credit, club level access, bonus points toward free future stays and much more.
If you’re not signed up with all the hotels you regularly visit, do it today. Right now.
You deserve the most bang for your buck when planning a vacation.
In a world where prices seem to be increasing by the day, the luxury of travel may feel out of reach. It doesn’t have to be. If you implement a few of these tips, your travel dollars will take you further.
GO! There’s nothing -including money – stopping you.
Looking for tips on solo travel? Check out Bankable for more.
Fine Dining. Fine Details. Dinner at Tanaman, Bali
A Matter of TasteVegan fine dining is a bit of a brass ring.
There are a few hallowed eateries that do it well in the States, like Eleven Madison Park in New York, Shojin in LA, or the now shuttered Candle 79, but options can be far more limited when traveling abroad.
As one would imagine, the culinary heritage of the island of Bali emphasizes seafood and a variety of meats. Dishes like Nasi Campur boast everything from chicken to fish, but there are a surprisingly number of outlets offering plant-based versions.
Bali’s Blossoming Vegan Food Scene
Image courtesy of the establishment.
In areas like Seminyak, Ubud, and Canggu, vegan restaurants are springing up to meet the demand of uncompromising, health- focused travelers. One staple of the community is Tanaman, a pure, plant-based offering from the world-famous Potato Head Beach Club.
Located inside the main structure of the club, Tanaman delights the senses with rich teak wood furnishings and rustic linens. The vibe is distinctly tropical, punctuated with the restraint and elegance often associated with Asian design.
Once seated, the scope of the restaurant become clear. This is an establishment clearly planned with style and sustainability in mind. The use of natural materials is front and center, and the live trees throughout usher nature into the dining experience.
The New Fusion: New Twists on Classic Dishes
Menu offerings include fresh twists on Indonesian classics and innovative fusion- style dishes influenced by the culinary richness of the region.
Tanaman offers a nine-course tasting menu which was unavailable on the evening of my visit.
On the recommendation of the host, I opted for the bayam (spinach chips) and sate jamur (wood ear mushroom satay).
Bayam is a traditional street food in Indonesia, and Tanaman’s modern twist on it offers a fresh way of consuming the hearty dish. Spinach leaves are lightly battered and fried crisp and dusted with a pungent curry powder.
The sate jamur, a plant-based alternative to the plethora of meat sates on offer in Bali, was hearty and lived up to its counterparts.
Presented on wooden skewers, the mushrooms were charred and smoky, with hints of sweetness from the basting sauce.
Though both dishes were nice introductions to the restaurant, they lacked the depth I hoped for. Similar dishes from hometown warungs, small traditional restaurants, offer more poignant flavors. The flavor profiles were adequate, but there was no wow factor. Given that Tanaman is a small-plate style restaurant, perhaps the tasting menu offers a fuller sensory experience.
In terms of value, dishes are priced on par with high-end casual fare in the area, which is significantly higher than more local eateries nearby. If you can catch the set tasting menu on Friday or Saturday, Tanaman offers a worthwhile look into high-end vegan Indonesian cuisine.
If you’re visiting Potato Head during your time in Bali, Tanaman is a good way to top off a day of sun, friends, and fun. Pop up for the Friday or Saturday tasting seatings and you’re golden. If you’re looking for a more traditional fine experience for date night or a special occasion, consider Aperitif or Mozaic.
3.5 out of 5 stars.
A Journey Worth Taking: A Globetrotter’s Retrospective on 50,000 Miles of Non-Stop Travel
B+ For Subscribers, TravelA Journey Worth Taking:
A Globetrotter’s Retrospective on 50,000 Miles of Non-Stop Travel
I've gone trekking up mountains with strangers and broken bread with men who had never met an American. Every single experience has been worth it, and made me more myself.
Issue: Winter 2024 | Author: Ilena Banks | Photography: Ilena Banks
What a world.
After 7 months of full time exploration, a few lessons have stuck with me. I've gone trekking up mountains with strangers and broken bread with men who had never met an American. I've found solidarity with my fellow countrymen abroad, and been saddened by anti-black sentiment. Every single experience has been worth it, and made me more myself.
Now, I didn’t set off on my travels because of a bad breakup or my life falling apart - this isn’t Eat, Pray, Love. I’m the girl who’d always wanted to lose myself in a “foreign” land. My dream was hopping from place to place and making friends along the way.
If you dream of faraway lands and spiritual experiences a million miles from home, all those dreams are possible for you. In the meantime, read on to discover seven life lessons I’ve learned as a long-term traveler.
Savor every moment.
We all like to believe we “live in the moment” and are present for the things that matter. The truth is, life is what happens while we’re making other plans. We spend so much time preoccupied with what’s wrong - and what’s to come - that the magic of the present moment passes us by.
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