Rocco Forte Hotels has been on my list of stays for some time, so I welcomed the opportunity to experience one of its flagship properties, Hotel de Russie in Rome. I had been curious about this property because of its historic connection with Russian aristocrats and artists who frequented the Eternal City in the 19th century. Over time, Hotel de Russie became a landmark near Piazza del Popolo, hosting an eclectic mix of guests, from painters to politicians. Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau stayed at Hotel de Russie in adjoining rooms in February 1917 while working on Parade, the groundbreaking Ballets Russes production that brought together Cocteau, composer Erik Satie, Picasso and choreographer Léonide Massine. Picasso remained in Rome for about three months, and the hotel now honors his stay with the Picasso Suite. The hotel's celebrity guest list continued to grow decades later, with George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Julia Roberts among the stars who stayed at the property during the filming of Ocean's Twelve in Rome in 2004. Leonardo DiCaprio has also been reported as a guest, as has Jennifer Aniston, and British musician Morrissey later spent several weeks at Hotel de Russie while recording his 2005 album Ringleader of the Tormentors in Rome. FIRST IMPRESSIONS The entrance lobby of the Hotel de Russie features high, white vaulted ceiling arches, classic art busts, glass pendant chandeliers, and a grand central floral display on a round marble table. Moving through this light-filled corridor leads directly into the hotel's Secret Garden, a tranquil, multi-tiered outdoor courtyard enclosed by soft pastel-pink facades with blue shutters. Anchored by a grand double staircase leading up to lush, elevated terraces of palms and citrus trees, this serene courtyard was one of my favorite spots. It hosts the dining area for Le Jardin de Russie, with intimate tables set for outdoor dining. This is also where I enjoyed my daily breakfast. Location Situated on Via del Babuino between Piazza di Spagna and Piazza del Popolo, the location is exceptionally practical for exploring Rome on foot. The hotel sits right at the foot of the Pincio hill, mere steps from the gallery-lined Via Margutta. Major cultural sites like the Villa Borghese gardens are practically in the backyard, while the Spanish Steps are a short five-minute walk away. For airport transfers, Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is roughly a 45-minute drive depending on Roman traffic, while Ciampino (CIA) takes about 35 minutes. While public transit and taxis are readily accessible outside the entrance, renting a car is generally unnecessary and discouraged due to Rome’s strict Limited Traffic Zones (ZTL). I found that walking was by far the best way to navigate the area, and I always looked forward to returning to the quiet courtyard of the hotel after exploring the crowded city streets. History The land where Hotel de Russie currently sits was originally acquired in 1816 by the Marquis Francesco Lucernari, who commissioned architect Giuseppe Valadier to design a noble palace. Valadier was simultaneously designing the famous semicircles of Piazza del Popolo, and his work here served as a private, small-scale blueprint for what he would later construct on the Pinciano Hill. In the 1820s, the structure opened as the "Albergo di Russia," drawing international aristocracy, Russian royalty, and artists like sculptor John Gibson. The hotel changed hands over the decades, welcoming figures like Prince Girolamo Bonaparte, Sergei Diaghilev, and Pablo Picasso as I mentioned earlier. After serving as a military information service headquarters during World War II and later housing the offices of Italy’s national broadcaster (RAI) for several decades, Sir Rocco Forte acquired the property in 1999. A multi-year restoration project concluded between 2020 and 2021, bringing Valadier’s original 19th-century "Secret Garden" layout back to light, restoring its terraced balustrades, classical nymphs, and trickling water fountains. Rooms & Suites Hotel de Russie offers 120 elegant rooms and suites, including 34 suites, blending residential comfort with understated Italian elegance. I stayed in a Deluxe Suite with a Garden View, measuring roughly 484 square feet (45 m²). The layout made excellent use of space, prioritizing natural light through large windows that framed the terraced greenery outside. One detail I particularly liked was the clever integration of local craftsmanship throughout the room. The custom armchairs wrapped in Dedar fabrics, subtle bas-reliefs inspired by Roman antiquities, and warm tones of ochre and burnt orange immediately establish an authentic sense of place without feeling heavy-handed. The king-size bed was comfortable, made up with crisp Italian linens. Storage was well thought out, featuring a spacious built-in wardrobe that easily accommodated clothing for a longer stay. The bathroom was clad in Italian Calacatta marble, equipped with a generous walk-in shower, plush robes, and I loved the Irene Forte Skincare products. Despite the hotel's central location overlooking the Secret Garden, which was hosting a corporate event, my room remained completely silent at night thanks to its soundproof windows. For those seeking expansive living quarters, the hotel's Forte Suites—such as the Picasso Suite, Nijinsky Suite with its 2,572-square-foot (239 m²) terrace—offer multi-room layouts and massive private outdoor spaces overlooking the Pincio. Dining Dining at the property centers around Le Jardin de Russie, overseen by Chef Fulvio Pierangelini. The restaurant interior was redesigned by artist Gio Bressana, who painted large murals of citrus trees, butterflies, and foliage onto the walls, echoing the gardens outside. I enjoyed having both breakfast and dinner out in the Secret Garden. Breakfast was served buffet-style with an extensive spread of items, alongside a full menu of hot meals available cooked to order. I suggest ordering the poached eggs with local artichokes, if available during your stay. For dinner in the garden, the kitchen focuses heavily on elevated Roman classics made with regional ingredients. I tried the signature cacio e pepe ravioli, which was light yet precise in flavor, followed by sea bass served with local herbs. Adjacent to the garden is the Stravinskij Bar, a popular gathering spot for both hotel guests and Roman locals. Led by Bar Manager Mattia Capezzuoli with signature creations from mixologist Salvatore Calabrese, the bar serves well-crafted cocktails alongside light bites. Sit outside near Piazzetta Valadier under the heated lamps during cooler evenings to enjoy the atmosphere. Amenities & Wellness The heart of the property is its Valadier-designed Secret Garden. I spent several afternoons sitting by the stone basins and water features. The terraced layout creates small private nooks surrounded by pine trees, citrus plants, and climbing vines, making it easy to forget you are in the middle of a capital city. Indoor wellness revolves around the Irene Forte Spa, a 6,458-square-foot (600 m²) facility located on the lower level. The wellness space includes a hydromassage pool with thermal water features, a Finnish sauna and steam room, private treatment rooms utilizing Mediterranean botanical products, and a fully equipped fitness center with Technogym equipment. Don't miss the thermal pool after a long day of walking around the city. It was an ideal place to relax and recover. The spa cabins and changing rooms were recently updated, with a full renovation of the wet areas planned in the coming years. Experiences The hotel excels at organizing private cultural access through its concierge team, particularly for guests staying in the top-tier Forte Suites. Rather than standard sightseeing, the hotel can arrange curated "Art Running" tours with a personal trainer through the Villa Borghese gardens early in the morning before the crowds arrive. They also coordinate private access to local artisan workshops near Via Margutta, guided wine tastings featuring small Italian producers, and personal shopping tours through Rome's high-fashion houses along Via dei Condotti. Good to Know Best Room Categories: If quiet is your priority, request a room facing the Secret Garden rather than the street or Piazzetta Valadier. Meetings & Events: The property offers notable venue flexibility, including four indoor meeting spaces—most notably Sala Torlonia, which accommodates up to 100 guests—alongside outdoor garden terraces like the Garden Pergolato (capacity 100) and Terrazza Diaghilev (capacity 50) for private gatherings. Accessibility: The hotel offers accessible public spaces and select adapted guest rooms, though the terraced garden itself features historic stone stairs that may be challenging for guests with limited mobility. Checking In: Standard check-in is at 15:00, and check-out is at 12:00. The concierge is happy to store luggage securely if you arrive early. Valet Parking: On-site valet parking is available for a daily fee, but given the ZTL restrictions, it is best arranged with the hotel prior to arrival if you are driving. Wi-Fi: High-speed Wi-Fi is complimentary throughout the property and proved fast enough for video calls and streaming. Hotel Information Hotel Name: Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel Address: Via del Babuino 9, 00187 Roma, Italy Telephone: +39 06 328881 Website: Hotel de Russie Instagram: @hotelderussie By ML Staff. Photos/Hotel de Russie

Traditional Asian tea culture emphasizes mindfulness, precision, and deep respect for the ingredient. While Miami is often celebrated for its high-energy dining, a growing number of dedicated spaces now offer authentic Japanese ceremonies and Chinese gongfu rituals. These serene destinations provide a necessary, quiet counterpoint to the city's vibrant culinary landscape. Admari Tea Photo: Admari Tea Operating out of the Little River neighborhood, this modern merchant space focuses strictly on premium loose-leaf botanicals and single-origin Asian imports. The studio hosts focused educational sessions and quiet tastings, allowing guests to explore traditional brewing techniques in a minimalist, calming environment. It belongs on this list for its absolute dedication to authentic sourcing and deep respect for modern tea culture. Address: 4756 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127 Phone: (786) 615-4672 Website: Official website Hutong Miami Photo: Hutong Miami While primarily recognized for its upscale Northern Chinese cuisine, this Brickell destination features a highly specialized Chinese tea program. Diners can pair rich dim sum and Peking duck with premium oolongs and jasmine blends presented in traditional teaware. The dark, heavily carved wood interiors reflect classic Beijing design, offering a deeply atmospheric setting for appreciating high-grade Chinese leaves. Address: 600 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131 Phone: (786) 388-0805 Website: Official website Ichimura Miami-Japan Garden Photo: Ichimura Miami-Japan Garden Located on Watson Island, this traditional outdoor space offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic Japanese tea ceremonies. Practitioners demonstrate the precise, mindful movements of the ritual, serving guests perfectly whisked matcha accompanied by traditional wagashi sweets. It earns its place by providing a highly traditional, culturally immersive experience surrounded by authentic stone lanterns and manicured landscapes. Address: 1101 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, FL 33132 Phone: (305) 992-0703 Website: Official website JoJo Tea Tasting Room Photo: JoJo Tea Hidden inside a quiet Coral Gables space, this dedicated tasting room provides an unparalleled deep dive into Chinese and Taiwanese tea traditions. The owner guides visitors through authentic gaiwan brewing, explaining the nuances of rare pu-erh, delicate white teas, and roasted oolongs. The intimate, reservation-only environment ensures a highly focused and educational session for serious enthusiasts. Address: 951 SW 42nd Ave #305, Miami, FL 33134 Phone: (305) 304-4334 Website: Official website Morikami Museum Tea House Photo: Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens Designed to mimic a classic 16th-century Japanese grass hut, the Seishin-an tea house practices the strict Omotesenke school of tea ceremony. Visitors observe trained masters perform the quiet, highly structured ritual while taking in views of the expansive Zen gardens. This venue remains the absolute gold standard in South Florida for experiencing the profound tranquility of traditional Japanese tea culture. Address: 4000 Morikami Park Rd, Delray Beach, FL 33446 Phone: (561) 495-0233 Website: Official website Navi Coffee & Flowers Photo: Navi Coffee & Flowers Nestled in Coconut Grove, this charming space balances a lush floral aesthetic with strict adherence to Japanese green tea preparation. They source their pure matcha directly from generational farmers in Japan, ensuring the flavor profile remains bright and grassy. The staff prepares the beverage using traditional bamboo whisks and ceramic bowls, delivering an uncompromised ceremonial experience in a highly visual setting. Address: 3213 Grand Ave, Miami, FL 33133 Phone: (786) 571-6577 Website: Official website Tea Room at EAST Miami Photo: EAST Miami Perched high above the city in Brickell, this venue presents a sleek, Hong Kong-inspired interpretation of the Asian tea lounge. Although it operates as a vibrant evening destination featuring an Asian Night Brunch, the space relies heavily on Eastern flavor profiles and mixology. It provides a highly stylized, contemporary environment for those looking to experience Asian hospitality in a modern urban context. Address: 788 Brickell Plaza, Miami, FL 33131 Phone: (786) 805-4655 Website: Official website The Setai Miami Beach Photo: The Setai Miami Beach This South Beach luxury property consistently honors its deep Asian design roots through meticulous hospitality and beverage offerings. Guests can enjoy premium imported green, white, and black teas served in cast-iron pots amidst reflecting pools and dark teak architecture. The environment feels deeply transportive, offering a quiet, Zen-inspired refuge that honors traditional Eastern aesthetics just steps from the ocean. Address: 2001 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139 Phone: (855) 923-7899 Website: Official website Zuma Miami Photo: Zuma Miami Operating on the ground floor of the Epic Hotel, this globally recognized izakaya-style restaurant maintains an exceptional Japanese beverage program. Beyond the robata grill, the staff offers premium matcha and fine green teas served in artisanal ceramics to conclude the meal. The sleek, natural stone and wood dining room provides an immaculate backdrop for appreciating high-end Japanese tea traditions. Address: 270 Biscayne Blvd Way, Miami, FL 33131 Phone: (305) 577-0277 Website: Official website By ML Staff. Selection by Camila R. S. Azeredo. Photos courtesy of each featured venue.

THCP has moved from a research curiosity to a name that appears regularly on hemp vape packaging. If you've been asking what is THCP and why it appears in so many vape products, you're not alone. For anyone already familiar with Delta-8 or Delta-9 products, THCP arrives with a lot of attention attached and not much clear explanation. This piece sets out what the cannabinoid actually is, what the published research does and does not show, why it turns up in disposables and cartridges rather than on its own, where the law currently stands, and how to tell a well-made product from a poorly made one. The regulatory picture in particular has changed significantly in the past year, so it is worth reading that section closely. What Is a THCP Vape? A THCP vape is an inhalable product containing tetrahydrocannabiphorol, a hemp-derived cannabinoid, and is typically available as either a disposable device or a THCP cartridge designed for use with a compatible vape battery. THCP itself was first isolated from Cannabis sativa in 2019 by a team of Italian researchers. Structurally, it is a close relative of Delta-9 THC. Both share the same core, but where Delta-9 has a five-carbon side chain, THCP has a seven-carbon chain. That difference sounds academic and turns out to matter a great deal, for reasons covered in the next section. In practice, you will rarely find a vape containing THCP alone. The compound occurs in cannabis only in trace amounts, so it appears in finished products as one component of a wider cannabinoid formulation, typically at a very low inclusion rate relative to the other ingredients. How Does THCP Compare to Delta-9 THC? When discussing THCP vs Delta-9, the most important difference supported by current research is receptor binding rather than a direct comparison of real-world effects. The honest answer is that THCP binds more tightly to the CB1 receptor, and everything beyond that statement requires careful interpretation. In the original 2019 study, published in Scientific Reports, THCP showed an in vitro binding affinity at the human CB1 receptor of roughly 1.2 nM, as reported by Citti and colleagues. Delta-9 THC is generally reported in the region of 40 nM in comparable assays, which is where the widely repeated figure of around 33 times comes from. That number gets misused constantly, so it is worth being precise. Binding affinity measured in a laboratory assay describes how readily a compound attaches to a receptor. It is not a dose conversion, and it does not translate into a proportional difference in felt effect. Absorption, metabolism, formulation and individual tolerance all sit between a receptor assay and a person's actual experience. What can be said fairly is that THCP is active at very low concentrations, which is precisely why formulators use it in milligram quantities far smaller than they would use Delta-9 or Delta-8. Effects vary considerably between individuals, and many people report that products containing THCP feel different from familiar Delta-9 products at what looks on paper like a comparable dose. Anyone new to it is best served starting low and allowing time before redosing. Why Is THCP Used in Disposables and Carts? Because it occurs naturally in such small quantities, THCP is almost never the sole active ingredient. Instead, it is typically included as part of a multi-cannabinoid formulation. Manufacturers commonly use this approach for several reasons: Trace natural levels: THCP occurs naturally in very small amounts, making it impractical to formulate products around it alone. Balanced formulations: Many THCP vape carts combine THCP with cannabinoids such as Delta-9 or Delta-8 to create a more balanced cannabinoid profile while keeping THCP at very low concentrations. Practical production: THCP is relatively expensive and active at low levels, so blending it with other cannabinoids helps create consistent formulations. Fast-acting format: Vaping delivers cannabinoids more quickly than edibles, making accurate formulation, clear labeling, and reliable dosing especially important. Whether you're considering disposable devices or THCP vape carts, the same principles apply: look for transparent cannabinoid content, current third-party lab testing, and clearly labeled formulations so you know exactly what you're using. Is THCP Legal? The legal status of THCP is changing, so it's important not to rely on older articles. For several years, federal hemp rules focused mainly on the amount of Delta-9 THC in a product. In November 2025, Congress passed a law that changes how hemp is defined at the federal level. Instead of looking only at Delta-9 THC, the new definition considers total THC and places stricter limits on finished hemp-derived cannabinoid products. These changes are scheduled to take effect on 12 November 2026. The law also requires the FDA to publish lists identifying naturally occurring cannabinoids, THC-class cannabinoids, and cannabinoids with similar effects. Exactly how THCP will be treated under this framework is still being clarified. State laws add another layer of complexity. Some states already restrict or prohibit intoxicating hemp-derived products regardless of federal law, while others have their own testing, labeling, and age requirements. The practical takeaway is simple: THCP's legal status depends on both federal rules and the laws in your state, so it's worth checking the latest regulations before purchasing or using these products. What to Look For in a Quality THCP Vape Because THCP is potent and usually blended with other cannabinoids, transparency matters more here than with almost any other hemp product. A quality THCP vape should come with a current Certificate of Analysis (COA) showing the full cannabinoid breakdown, use quality hardware such as a ceramic heating element and glass components where applicable, and clearly state what is in the oil rather than relying on vague terms such as "blend." Reputable hemp brands make this information easy to find. For example, JustKana lists their cannabinoid content and third-party lab results openly, which is the kind of transparency worth looking for in any THCP or multi-cannabinoid product before you buy. The same evaluation criteria apply whether you're purchasing a THCP disposable or a refillable cartridge: verify the Certificate of Analysis, review the cannabinoid profile, and ensure the product has been tested for contaminants. Beyond that, a few practical checks separate serious products from the rest. Look at the date on the lab report, since a Certificate of Analysis from two years ago tells you nothing about the batch in your hand. Check that the report covers contaminants as well as potency, including residual solvents and heavy metals. Confirm that the milligram figures on the packaging actually match the lab document rather than simply appearing near it. Vague marketing language should also be treated with caution. Terms such as "proprietary blend" without accompanying cannabinoid amounts make it difficult to know what the product contains or in what quantities. Clear labeling, batch-specific laboratory testing, and transparent ingredient information are all indicators of a product that allows consumers to make informed decisions. The Bottom Line THCP is a genuine cannabinoid with an unusual receptor profile and a short research history. It is active at low concentrations, which makes formulation accuracy and honest labeling more important than they would be for a more familiar compound, not less. Two things deserve attention from anyone considering these products. The first is documentation, since a current, complete third-party lab report is the only reliable way to know what is in a vape. The second is the regulatory calendar, because the federal definition of hemp changes in November 2026 and state rules already vary widely. These are products for adults only, the research base remains thin, and effects differ from person to person. Treat cautious dosing and verified lab results as the baseline rather than the exception. By ML Staff. Images generated with OpenAI.

Aman has introduced a Fine Fragrances collection that translates its destinations into scents built around distinctive natural notes such as jasmine, cedar and sea salt, aiming to capture the atmosphere of the brand’s most evocative locations. Described as a journey in scent, the range is designed to trigger memories of place with clarity, inviting wearers to experience elements of lush jungle, sun warmed desert, tranquil gardens and ancient forests through carefully composed accords. The collection currently features three Fine Fragrances, Ayom, Zuac and Mavi, each created to reflect a different sense of place while maintaining a connection to Aman’s design and wellness ethos. Further details about the range and individual scents are available on the Aman Fine Fragrances page. By ML. Photo(s)/Aman

Tiffany & Co. is placing a renewed spotlight on its gold jewelry collection, presenting pieces designed for daily wear as well as formal events. The collection features necklaces, pendants, bracelets and earrings that showcase the house’s craftsmanship and attention to detail. Customers can explore the full range of gold jewelry online, and have access to services such as consultations with diamond experts, appointment booking and design personalization. The brand is also drawing attention to its most popular jewelry selections, which include a variety of gold designs across categories. By ML. Photo(s)/Tiffany & Co.

Valentino is centering its latest seasonal focus on the Valentino Garavani Rockstud sandals, positioning the studded styles as a core footwear choice for the upcoming summer period. The sandals are presented for both daytime and evening use, with the brand highlighting their role in warm weather dressing and emphasizing the Rockstud hardware as a recurring design element across the range. The new selection includes multiple color variations and silhouettes, featured prominently in recent visual materials and on the brand’s website. Shoppers can explore the Rockstud offering through the Valentino online store by visiting Valentino Garavani for detailed product information and availability. By ML. Photo(s)/VALENTINO

Givenchy has introduced a focused Sandals & Mules Edit that highlights key warm weather styles across its women’s footwear offering. The selection features sculptural Boudoir sandals with leather petals, along with minimalist thong silhouettes and designs finished with refined bow details, reflecting the brand’s current seasonal direction in dress and casual footwear. Customers can explore the full Sandals & Mules Edit and related women’s and men’s collections on the official Givenchy website for seasonal footwear options. By ML. Photo(s)/Givenchy

Prada has unveiled a curated selection of women’s small leather goods that emphasize refined archival details and understated design. The collection includes wallets and cardholders crafted with smooth finishes and clean lines, highlighting functional construction and compact silhouettes for everyday use. Each piece is defined by an iconic strap with buckle, which introduces a structured accent and reinforces the brand’s focus on versatile accessories suitable for both formal and casual settings. The full range of small leather goods is available on Prada’s website, where customers can view the selection and explore the latest releases. By ML. Photo(s)/Prada

Dior has introduced the Promenade shopper and Dior Nymphéas sandals as key accessories in its Autumn Winter 2026–2027 collection, presenting the pieces in a campaign themed around garden illusions. In the imagery, the Dior Promenade shopper is shown blending into tall grass, while the Dior Nymphéas sandals are styled to resemble water lilies, highlighting a playful interplay between fashion and nature. The accessories form part of the house’s latest bags and shoes offering for the season, underscoring Dior’s continued focus on signature silhouettes reinterpreted through poetic visual narratives. The collection is available through Dior’s boutiques and its official website, where additional looks from the Autumn Winter 2026–2027 season can be explored. By ML. Photo(s)/Dior

Versace has introduced its Fall Winter 2026 collection of men’s accessories, highlighting updated designs in seasonal tones and the fashion house’s signature detailing. The range includes essential accessories designed to complement tailored and casual looks, with a focus on recognizable Versace motifs and finishes suited to colder months. The Fall Winter 2026 accessories collection is now available in Versace boutiques and on versace.com for international customers. By ML. Photo(s)/Versace

Tickets are now on sale for a new concert in Miami that brings together pianist José Negroni, his Negroni’s Trio and acclaimed flamenco singer Ana del Rocío. José Negroni and Miami-Dade County Auditorium will present “Serrat… En Voz de Mujer” on Saturday, August 15 at 8:00 pm at the Koubek Center in Miami, located at 2705 SW 3rd St, Miami, FL 33135. The performance is part of the Miami-Dade County Auditorium’s Away From Home Series, a program of off-site events at alternative venues with community partners while the auditorium is temporarily closed for renovations. For event details and ticket information, visit the listing on the Miami-Dade County Auditorium website. By ML. Photo(s)/Miami-Dade County Auditorium

Burberry has introduced a new selection of seasonal styles designed to refresh wardrobes as the weather changes. The latest arrivals include everyday essentials and updated signature pieces intended to be worn immediately and through the coming months. Customers can explore the full range of new items on the official Burberry website and browse categories such as womenswear, menswear, childrenswear and accessories. Shoppers looking for accessories can shop women’s bags as part of the new collection. By ML. Photo(s)/Burberry