Lily Collins wore a Gucci Cosmogonie fluorescent pink long-sleeve crew-neck mini dress with gathered detail at the waistline and detachable gorget with black sheer polka dot tights while promoting the forthcoming third season of Emily in Paris on Netflix. By ML Staff. Images Courtesy of Charlotte Joanna Hadden

We don’t often associate beauty models with science, technology, engineering and mathematics….until now. Meet Haley Kalil, a Sports Illustrated swimsuit model who is launching “The Nerd Herd” – an organization that empowers women to love their bodies and minds, while working to educate the new generation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). A cause Haley is passionate about as an accomplished scientist herself (who earned a collegiate 4.0 in Biomedical Sciences & Psychology, with a minor in Chemistry). Haley will be releasing a collection of Nerd Herd loungewear later this year, donating 100% of the proceeds from the first launch to organizations like Black Girls Code that help get young women involved in STEM. Miami Living chatted with Haley to learn more. Click below to launch slideshow > Words by Markin Abras | Images by Nick Suarez, Christian Michel & Serek Kettela Miami Living: I understand that Miami was the birthplace of your modeling career. How did that exactly happen? Haley Kalil: Miami holds a special place in my heart because it was the first place I ever modeled. I was a lab nerd living in my home town of Minnesota, who had recently graduated with a double major in Biomedical Sciences and Psychology with a minor in Chemistry. I was drawn to the study of cellular tissue and medicine. While studying for my MCAT and preparing to apply to medical school, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit held their first ever open casting call. I always wanted to be a model but I never knew how! As a nerdy kid growing up in Minnesota... It seemed like an impossible dream. Thankfully, I built up the courage and submitted a casting video to the iconic SI Swimsuit. To my surprise, they invited me to the casting in NYC. After the casting, I was chosen as one of only 15 women to walk in Miami Swim Week. This was the birth of my modeling career. I’ll never forget walking that runway in front of what felt like all of Miami... so nervous but also so excited for what the future could hold. Who knew that runway would be the start of an entirely new life. Click below to launch slideshow > ML: So what happened after that memorable runway walk? HK: I went on to shoot for the SI Swimsuit issue and eventually was named co-winner of the first ever SI Swimsuit open casting call. I was signed to my first modeling agency. I went on to shoot with brand after brand, that I had previously only dreamed of working with! I never would have guessed that four years later, I would have just finished shooting my 4th year with SI Swimsuit and working as a full-time model. ML: How did you manage to come up with “The Nerd Herd” with such a busy schedule? HK: Because science holds such a special place in my heart, I wanted to use my platform to give back. I had grown my platform from a mere 50 followers to over 380K on Instagram. I never imagined I would reach so many people – especially so many young women. That’s when I started The Nerd Herd. ML: Tell us about The Nerd Herd project and what it means to you. HK: The Nerd Herd is my passion project. It is a way I am hoping to give back to a community I know and love dearly. Science was once my entire life. I came from a world where I was respected for my mind... and entered a world where I was respected for my body... and it made me aware of the incredibly stringent rules that have been placed on women in the sciences. Society tries to place women into categories. If you embrace your intellectual abilities, you can’t embrace your body and vice versa. Society puts women in boxes based on their choice of swimsuit or the length of their skirt... but women are incredibly multifaceted and embracing both one’s body and one’s mind at that same time should not be deemed inappropriate. Click below to launch slideshow > ML: What are some of the objectives you are looking to achieve with The Nerd Herd? HK: I want a world where female doctors can post a bikini photo without being shamed. I want a world where a female engineer does not have to worry about posting vacation photos because her sundress is short. I want a world where a female attorney doesn’t wonder if wearing the wrong top will lose her the respect of her coworkers. I started The Nerd Herd as a safe place for women to express every piece of who they are and embrace the multidimensional nature of their bodies and minds. ML: Besides your modeling, what are some of the things you are working on? HK: When I’m not busy modeling, I have been working hard on a line of Nerd Herd loungewear that will launch in Summer 2021. With 100% of the proceeds from the first launch donated to organizations that help get young women involved in STEM at an early age – organizations like Black Girls Code. I have always been passionate about the sciences. It gave me meaning and purpose. I want other young women to feel the same. I want them to embrace the power of their minds, and hopefully they will be the next generation of astronauts, doctors, engineers, and researchers that change the world. And, I will work tirelessly until they are able to do so without all the current restrictions society places on women in these fields. ML: Your meaning and purpose are powerful intentions. They are indeed needed! HK: It’s incredible for me to look back at this entire journey... a journey that began with a 60-second casting video on my tiny Instagram platform and a runway show in Miami. Every time I land in Miami to work on a campaign or shoot for a magazine cover.. or even, to shoot for SI Swimsuit for my 4th year.... I think of that runway. I think of my nerves. I think of my excitement. I think of how that girl had absolutely no idea what life had in store for her... because one post and a few steps on a runway in Miami changed my entire life. Connect with Haley: Haley Kalil and The Nerd Herd

Roger Federer - record-breaking 20-time Grand Slam winner and king of Centre Court - has never been one to shrink from a challenge. But the tennis legend is currently grappling with a very 2020-specific set of issues. Namely, how to debut his new range of trainers via Zoom, with all the technical calamities that that entails. It’s the pandemic parlance and stop gaps we’re all now familiar with; he patiently instructs someone to unmute, battles with crackling audio and attempts to show his new trainers up close on screen, remaining good-humored throughout. “We’re all learning new things right now,” he laughs, as someone’s voice turns to Dalek-speak. The date for the launch of his range of trainers, designed in collaboration with Swiss footwear brand On, was picked for sentimental reasons. 6 July is the anniversary of his first Wimbledon win, back in 2003 when he defeated Mark Philippoussis for the Men’s Singles title. “It was 17 years ago today that my life changed, winning Wimbledon, a huge, defining moment in my career,” says Federer from the Zurich studio where he’s unveiling the shoe collection. “So it’s nice to be here on this specific date to try something new.” The debut in question is the Roger Centre Court Zero Series, a smart white leather trainer with discreet gold ‘The Roger’ lettering at the heel. “I grew up in the 90s,” says the 38-year-old, who lives in the Lenzerheide mountain range with his wife Mirka and their two sets of twins, Myra and Charlene, aged ten, and Leo and Lennart, aged five. “Trainer styles back then were very bold back, with lots of big logos everywhere. I wanted sleekness instead, and something a little more discreet. We’re at a time right now where we like to hide away, not be so visible.” The relationship with On, founded as a running trainer brand in 2010 by Duathlon champion Olivier Bernhard, began in 2017 when Federer came on board as an investor. “I wanted to support a Swiss brand that felt important,” he says. The timing to coincide with his historic Wimbledon win was set before the Coronavirus pandemic and ensuing international lockdowns - the collaboration has been in the works for two years - but the date has taken on more emotive meaning for the tennis champion in recent months. 2020 was already shaping up to be a difficult year for “Fedex,” even before the virus took a stronghold on daily life. “I have had two operations on my knee, it’s been quite the year to be honest. I’ve been in rehab every day and on crutches, I’m working very hard to recover and I’m doing a 20-week fitness block later in the year,” he says, having first undergone surgery in February for an injury to his right knee, a complaint that surfaced in 2016, and following up with further surgery last month. It’s little wonder that he’s a tad wistful. “Winning Wimbledon defined my career - it’s nice to try something new.” “I wanted to support a Swiss brand, that felt important.” “Today is the date where I always look back to that moment all those years ago at Centre Court, and how it all started. And getting back there is one of my big goals, that’s why I’m rehabbing the way I am. It’s about taking the right decisions to do what’s right for my knee, for my fitness, for staying in shape. “It’s a long road back but you have to be patient. Of course I miss Wimbledon, I wish I was there right now playing my third match on Centre Court, trying to make it into the second week. Wimbledon has given me everything and more,” says Federer. The particular joys of homeschooling during the lockdown haven’t escaped the Federer household, but this rare slice of time to spend in one place has been a happy side effect of the coronavirus crisis. “I haven’t had this long at home in 25 years. We’re safe because we’re up in the mountains and don’t see anybody,” he says of his home in the Swiss Alpine resort town of Valbella, where he built a tucked-away $21 million chalet overlooking Lake Heidsee. “I’ve been very strict and serious about the rules,” says Federer, no stranger as he is to discipline. “I haven’t seen my parents in three months now, and we’ve been chasing around after the kids the best we can on our own, but I think this strange time has given us a chance to reflect and take stock of what really matters, which is family, friends, health and happiness.” Speaking of friends, has he shown his new trainers to front row BFF Anna Wintour? “I believe my agent has shown Anna. Yes,” he says. “I haven’t heard anything negative, so I’ll take that as a positive reaction from her. I’ll send her a pair if she asks nicely.” The pair have been friends for years, and as a thank you for organizing her wedding, the US Vogue editor’s daughter Bee Shaffer organized a surprise tennis lesson with Federer for tennis nut Wintour. The On shoes, however, are built for casual weekends rather than the rigours of the court. “They are lifestyle trainers. The technical aspect of a court sneaker takes a long time to perfect, factoring in five hours of tennis for five days straight. I’m sure I’ll make an oncourt shoe at some point, and wear them to play in.” All being well, they’ll be pacing the Wimbledon lawns come 2021. MORE ON ROGER Roger’s good luck charm is Tweety Bird. He speaks Swiss, German, French, and English fluently. He founded the Roger Federer foundation, which supports sports and education for children in South Africa. (Lynette Federer, Roger’s mother, is from South Africa.) Roger holds dual citizenship – a Swiss and South African national. By age 11, Roger was among Switzerland’s top junior players; and by age 14, he became Switzerland’s junior champion. Due to a back problem, Roger was discharged from serving in the Swiss military at age 18. Before winning his Wimbledon Singles title in 2003, Roger won the Boys’ title there in 1998. He is married to Marka Vavrinec, a former professional tennis player. A street in Halle, Germany is named after him, Roger Federer Allee. Switzerland followed suit and also named a s treet in Biel, Roger-Federer-Allee. He is the oldest male tennis player to become the world number one at age 36. Roger’s sister Diana, who is two years older than him, occasionally watches her brother’s matches. His favorite destinations are The Maldives, Dubai, and the Swiss mountains. Connect with Roger: www.rogerfederer.com www.instagram.com/rogerfederer www.facebook.com/Federer Connect with On: www.on-running.com www.instagram.com/on_running www.facebook.com/onrunning Words by Stephen Doig, The Telegraph, The Interview People Images Courtesy of Swiss Performance Running Brand On

The current state of our world has opened our eyes, shifted priorities, compelled us to action and leveled society's playing field. Recent events call upon all of us to, both, embrace and acknowledge our vulnerabilities and muster our collective strength. Regardless of what race, religion, ethnicity, or socio-economic circumstances we hold, we are forever bound together by these extraordinary times we live in. While our essential workers on the front lines keeping the nuts and bolts of society running and keeping us informed; elements like nature, family, friends, and the arts lift our spirits. Music has the power to inspire, heal, help us process our anger or heartbreak, prompt reflection, or make us grow nostalgic. Therefore, it should continue to be celebrated, even in the tensest of times. Some of my favorite interview subjects have been musicians, because of the philosophical and poetic nature many of them share. Legendary Poison frontman, Bret Michaels, is one of those people for me. We first met in 2007 when I interviewed him about his then VH1 reality show, Rock of Love. I enjoyed Michael's company then, and thirteen years later I still do. We resumed our conversation as it pertains to his now four-decade multi-platinum-selling music career, how some much-publicized health challenges have strengthened his spirit and resolve, his love of touring and his inexhaustible energy for new projects. On Monday, June 1st, Bret Michael's band Poison, in a joint statement with Motley Crue, Def Leppard and Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, announced that their much anticipated 2020 tour would be postponed until 2021. In light of the challenges our nation is facing on several fronts, their official statement reads: "We wanted to continue to communicate with our fans and update you with valid information as it becomes available. The official decision has been made to move all 2020 North American Stadium Tour dates into the summer of 2021," and concludes with, "Stay tuned, be safe and we will see you next year." In the interim, Michaels is excited to discuss the recent release of his personal scrapbook memoir, titled, Auto-Scrap-Ography. The book is an amalgamation of Michael's timestamped photographs, inspirational musings, landmark memories, and deep thoughts, penned by the singer, himself. *Editor's Note: This interview was completed prior to the tragic death of George Floyd. Interview By Allison Kugel Allison Kugel: This is the first interview I am releasing since the start of this pandemic. I have been reticent about putting anything entertainment-related out there. But if I am getting back into it, you are a good person to start back up with. Bret Michaels: We use the words "tough times," but these are also confusing times. Some people are saying "Don’t worry about it," while others like me and you are saying, "Are you and your family safe?" I’m in the highest risk category for COVID-19, being a Type 1 Diabetic since the age of six. So, my whole family have been really good about wearing masks and gloves and being safe until we get closer to the shore, if you know what I mean. I’ve also been trying to inject as much positivity into everything as I can without it sounding phony. I call myself a drealist. I dream and I dream big, but I’m also a realist. Allison Kugel: I agree with you about injecting positivity into challenging situations. My son has been complaining that he hasn't seen his friends, and he jokes that our lives have become like the movie Groundhog Day. He'll say, "We take the same walk everyday mom!" I say to him, "Look how blue the sky is. Look at that beautiful tree. Try and find the simple things that you may have overlooked under more normal circumstances." Bret Michaels: One thousand percent! I went out and took pictures with my kids. And recently I got a bucket of paint out because our sports court has needed painting for ten years, and I'd been avoiding it. I’ve put myself into every project I could find. It keeps you positive and it keeps your hands busy. If you are taking a walk and looking at a tree, it keeps your mind on positive stuff. It works. Allison Kugel: Would you say that some of the things you previously took for granted or overlooked, you are now noticing or rediscovering? Bret Michaels: Completely. I have a ranch in Arizona, and I went through everything that I have hoarded. I de-hoarded it (laugh). Then I went and started painting stuff. I’m a motor sports, outdoor kind of guy, so I ripped apart engines, like Go Kart engines. I also began noticing some furniture in need of a little love and TLC. I watch all these shows where they do it, and I finally decided to jump in and start restoring some furniture. And music, of course. I love listening to Bob Marley through these times. I listen to Three Little Birds and it just puts me right. Allison Kugel: I can't speak for other journalists, but for me this work has been a giant case study in the human experience. I've learned that everybody's life has a master theme. Your Type 1 Diabetes has been well documented, as was your brain hemorrhage some years back. You also had some big accidents that required rehabilitation. I feel that your master theme in this life is overcoming limitations of the physical body. Bret Michaels: That makes sense. When people ask me, "How do you overcome?" I say this is the card I was dealt and rather then become a victim to it and have self-pity, I chose to take the path of being spiritually and mentally positive. I want to go on record and thank my parents for that. My dad was active and a have fun, get it done kind of guy. My mom is the same. She opened the first youth diabetic camp in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania because I was the only kid in my entire class growing up who had diabetes. I send so many kids to diabetic camp so they can see what I experienced. It literally saved and changed my life. I saw other kids with diabetes, and we all learned together, brick by brick, how to find a way to enjoy sports and make it all work. That experience has been used in every application of my life, and in some ways prepared me for the entertainment business. Allison Kugel: And that is the power of a mom's love. Your mom said, "I'm going to create a camp for my kid so he can have this positive experience." I always say that where other people see problems, I see opportunities. It sounds like your mom is the same way. Bret Michaels: One million percent, and I hear that in your voice. In our case, diabetes was a part of our lives. My sisters also had it. And even when it comes to work and being on the road, I always say, "Ok, we've established the problem. The guitars didn't show up for our show in Lima, Peru (laugh). We can stand here and keep discussing it and yelling about it, but we have a stadium show in three hours. Let's focus on what we are going to do to solve this." I think you and me together can solve a lot of problems. Allison Kugel: The right perspective makes all the difference in your life. Bret Michaels: All the difference! With coronavirus, we don't know the exact date it was created or where it came from, so rather than focus on that, why don't we start focusing on the cities that are doing better, and what places like New York are doing to make it better. We have already established that it's a horrific virus. Now, what do we do to help each other get through it? And the amount of anxiety and depression this has caused, and economic turmoil; we are going to have to keep an eye on each other. We have to have each other's backs. Allison Kugel: Let's talk about your new book, Auto-Scrap-Ography. You are a ball of kinetic energy. How did you manage to sit down and write this book? Bret Michaels: Writing a book is one of the toughest things I've ever done, and it's one of the most fulfilling. I wanted to do something unique. I grabbed some timestamped photos. I took blank pieces of paper and I would scotch tape an image to a piece of paper and start writing the story surrounding that image, kind of like a Chicken Soup for the Soul vibe. The reason I didn't write a normal biography, and I love to read those, by the way, is because I could take a picture and write stream of consciousness about what my thoughts were in that moment, what I was going through and what happened. Every picture has a story and every story has multiple tentacles. This book is Volume 1. Over the next volumes I'm going to give you different tentacles of each story and really deep dive into it, so you are living the experience with me. Allison Kugel: That's an interesting approach. When I wrote my book, I took a different approach. I streamlined passages to focus on one main aspect of a story for the sake of continuity. I'm curious to read your volumes to see how you went about this. Bret Michaels: It's why yours is unique to you and mine is unique to me. If I tried to write it that way, I would have lost focus. That's why mine is written as a scrapbook. It's an autobiographical scrapbook diary. Some of it are pages of inspirational stuff; some are intense and impactful moments from my life. For example, there are five pages talking about me almost drowning in Caracas, Venezuela. I share with people what was going through my mind when I knew I was in a rip current. I had that fight or flight that happens. I thought that was it. Everyone on the beach thought I was kidding around, because I wasn't that far off the shore. I’m waving frantically and everyone on the beach is partying with their band and crew and they're just waving back at me, and I'm drowning out there. Allison Kugel: Your life experiences are such double-edged swords. Everything is the good and the bad, or the fun and the scary at the same time. Bret Michaels: Yes, my life, ironically, has been roses and thorns (a reference to Poison's number one hit ballad, "Every Rose Has Its Thorn"). A rose is this beautiful thing that looks amazing, it brings people life and it means love. And if you grab it the wrong way, or slide your hand down it, you have a painful thorn in your hand. My life has been a perfect balance beam in that way. I remember playing Texas Stadium in front of 83,000 people. It was completely sold out and we shot the I Won't Forget You video with Paul Stanley on stage, and Steven Tyler watching from the side. It was one of those, "This is the greatest!" moments. Life felt like a surreal dream. Two hours later we went from mega Texas Stadium rock star status to playing a small town in either in Texas or New Mexico where there weren't four people in the whole place who knew or cared who or what we were. At the time, it was exactly what I needed to happen to realize this will keep me as grounded as the person that I am today. Allison Kugel: I so get that. I’m not a public person, but I had gotten into this amazing groove where I was doing dream interview after dream interview, and I had just interviewed Gwen Stefani and was feeling pretty high about everything. Well, shortly thereafter, something happened, nothing terrible, but I got myself arrested and was thrown into a lockup. It was a traumatic experience. I remember being hysterical and I asked the woman if I could use the phone. I was freaking out and I started crying, and she goes, "Can you go cry over there, you're getting on my nerves (laughs). Bret Michaels: Oh, my goodness (laughs). Allison Kugel: Yup! I was like, "No, you don't understand I don't belong here. You don't know what I do and who I am." Well, that just made it one hundred times worse! Bret Michaels: I'm so sorry that happened to you, but truth is stranger than fiction. As I say in my book, I did not need to make stories up for shock value. Some stories I needed to pare down because you would think I'm making it up. I was arrested and went to Walton County Prison (Walton Correctional Institution in Walton County, Florida), with the real inmates. It wasn't the nice holding cell. Allison Kugel: (Laughs) Bret Michaels: I had just got done playing what at the time was called Omni Basketball Arena. A guy claimed I ruined his car, that I jumped on his car and smashed his windows. All of it was false. But they didn't ask questions. They just took me in. I had just come off stage and was in a state of shock. I spent two days in there and finally it came out that the guy made the story up. For two days I sat in the corner of that jail cell with about twenty other inmates all packed into a place that only should have held about four people. I sat in a corner with my head down and I didn't say a word. Some people said, "Hey, are you who I think you are?" I was like, "Yeah, no big thing, man, thanks." Allison Kugel: A humbling experience… Bret Michaels: A lot of the stories in Auto-Scrap-Ography are stories of how I overcame challenges, and true stories of inspiration. But a large part of my book is, of course, what I like to call a Rock 'n' Roll Thrill Ride. I'd like to think the overriding theme of the book is inspiration; it's telling people that if I can do this you can do it, regardless of what your dream is. Allison Kugel: Since touring is off the table right now, what other projects are you working on? Bret Michaels: I am going to be the face of college radio. Each year they pick someone to be the face of it and this year it's me. I also got the Humanitarian of The Year Award last year at the 2019 Hollywood Christmas Parade (Michaels ongoing philanthropic efforts have included delivering needed supplies to the people of the Bahamas and Puerto Rico). Way back when, when no one would touch our records, college radio spun our album. I wanted to do something to show my appreciation. I've also contributed to a lot of school programs, donating to their music, art and athletic programs. Allison Kugel: One passage that really struck me in your book was when you wrote, "I went from barely being able to afford to feed myself and buy my insulin to touring stadiums." What did you learn from poverty and what have you learned from wealth? Bret Michaels: From the beginning I was always a guy who thinks positive. I find a way to get it done. When I would run out of insulin and my parents would have to help, or they couldn't send it out in time, I would literally go down to the clinics in Hollywood and they'd give me insulin. It all made me resilient and determined, and most importantly, grateful when the second half came along. Poison and I, we are one of the few bands who were an independent band. My big signing day and signing party for Look What the Cat Dragged (Poison's debut studio album, released August 2, 1986) was sitting on a floor in El Segundo, California shrink wrapping my own albums. You know those stories about private jets and limos? I'd love to tell you that happened, but none of that happened. Allison Kugel: I think people just assume that any band that goes multiplatinum was signed to a major label. The fact that Poison was independent makes it all the more impressive. Bret Michaels: I couldn't have been prouder of what I was doing back then. And I didn't know any better. I didn't come from money. I was excited just shrink wrapping those albums I was grateful to have a record. The next thing was college radio played it. Nobody else wanted our music at the time. No one wanted Every Rose Has Its Thorn. No one was fighting to get Talk Dirty to Me or Something to Believe In; songs that eventually became number one songs. No one originally wanted our publishing at first, so we kept our own publishing with a ten percent administration deal with what's now Universal Music Group. It ended up being a humungous blessing. Allison Kugel: Why do you think you survived your 2010 brain hemorrhage and stroke? I'm sure you've thought about this a lot. Bret Michaels: First of all, I'm grateful that I lived. Second, I say praise God! It wasn't my time yet. I have more to do and this is where being a diabetic and my fighting spirit came in. Dr. Joseph Zabramski, one of my doctors, said, “I've never seen anybody work as hard in physical therapy to get better.” I hope the reason I survived is so I could show people what it means to fight and not give up. I've always been a grateful guy but that took my gratitude to an unbelievable level, and it also really upped my philanthropic work with my Life Rocks Foundation. Allison Kugel: You also say in your book that you do have a few regrets. How do you determine a regret versus a lesson, versus something you're proud of, in retrospect? Bret Michaels: One regret is that I couldn't be there for some of the events my children had at school. I've been to everything I could physically get to, but if it's when you have to play a show and it's also the night my kids are doing a recital, those are the things that I regret. I've never missed a birthday or a Christmas, but some of the other things you do miss. Another regret is a huge fist fight I had with C.C. [DeVille], my guitar player, and he's one of my best friends. It was a lot of time on the road, a lot of heated discussions about what songs we wanted in the set, and little things that fester and turned into a knockdown, drag out, nose breaking, teeth missing fist fight. We are like brothers, and I regret the physical end of it. It didn't need to go there, and it's one of my biggest regrets, especially because it happened twice in the same week, once in New Orleans and once backstage at the MTV Awards. Allison Kugel: You have an ageless look about you. How do you feel about aging? Are you okay with the aging process? Bret Michaels: I'm either an aging rocker or a dead rocker (laugh). We are aging from the moment we're born. Aging gracefully, I'll take that any day of the week because it's better than the alternative. I've been aging since we put out Look What the Cat Dragged In. By the time we did Open Up and Say… Ahh! I’d already aged from the first record. As you go along things happen to you, medically. You will not find me being one of those guys saying, "This sucks." I'm just glad I got the chance to age, because a lot of my buddies didn't. Allison Kugel: Here are the questions I ask everyone and my favorite part of the interview. What do you think you came into this life as Bret Michaels to learn? And what do you think you came here to teach? Bret Michaels: To learn, I'm going to say something very bold here. I came here to learn as much as I can about everything. One of the things I teach my kids is, "Take it all in, and learn from everybody." I've done that. I go out on my mountain bike and drive around while the road crew is setting stuff up, and I talk to them and find out what they are doing and learn from that. Whether or not I can apply that knowledge right then and there is one thing, but I learn a lot and I enjoy people. As far as teaching, I think if I was to have one other career, and I hope I can segue from what I'm doing now into this, I do these inspirational seminars where I talk about everything under the sun. I talk about what I've gone through and what I go through. With everything I have been through, that is the one thing I can give back and what I want to be able to do. It's what I would have done had this music thing not worked out the way it has. If my life had gone another way and I was just playing music on the weekends, I would have been a teacher of some kind… or a truck driver. I know that sounds crazy, but I love the open road. Allison Kugel: What do you think your spiritual mission is in this lifetime? Bret Michaels: I think it's to bring to people as much realistic positivity to people as possible. If you came to a party I'm hosting, as you have been, when you come to my house to a party, I don't want to be the life of the party. I want you to have the time of your life at my party. I think one of the reasons I'm a singer or frontman of a band is I'm a good host to people. I like when people feel good. It makes me feel good. Photos courtesy of Michaels Entertainment Group Bret Michael's memoir, Bret Michaels: Auto-Scrap-Ography, is out now and available exclusively at ShopBretMichaels.com. Follow on Instagram @bretmichaelsofficial. Information on Poison's postponed tour dates. Words and interview by Allison Kugel is a syndicated entertainment columnist and author of the memoir, Journaling Fame: A memoir of a life unhinged and on the record. Follow on Instagram @theallisonkugel and at AllisonKugel.com.

This new Dior Rose high jewellery collection is inspired by the vision of Victoire de Castellane, the Artistic Director of Dior Joaillerie for over 20 years. The result is a “Planet Dior” collection showcasing one hundred and sixteen jewels. White gold, diamonds, pink and green lacquers We showcase our favorite rings from this memorizing collection which convey the romantic and universal meaning of roses. A truly timeless and classic collection. Pink gold, diamonds, pink sapphires and rubies White and pink gold, diamonds, purple garnets and pink sapphires Yellow gold, diamonds and golden cultured pearl White gold, diamonds, black opal and blue lacquer White gold and diamonds White gold, diamonds, white opal and green lacquer White gold, diamonds and sapphires www.dior.com/en_int/womens-fashion/jewellery By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Dior

Forever exploring its long-held legacy in travel, a constant source of inspiration within every collection, the House presents an ode to the seasonal ritual of setting off to seaside locales. The Gucci Resort Collection features a selection of items unique to the world’s top travel destinations, transforming the vacation wardrobe into a colorful travelogue. Bags, sunglasses, hats, and beach blankets make up the exclusive local product offers, while the ready-to-wear and shoes will be available across all resort locations as well as on Gucci.com. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Gucci

A prolific painter, renowned watercolorist Wyatt Waters has painted about as long as he has been alive — starting with lessons before he was school-aged until earning a master’s degree in art. In his unrelenting quest of becoming a better painter, Wyatt draws on the influences of masters such as John Singer-Sargent, Edward Hopper, and William Hollingsworth. His passion for watercolor and traveling has led to the release of his latest book — The Watercolor Road, Painting and Writing through the American South. His rambling and wandering through the southern trail deliver an impressive collection of 133 paintings, 21 essays, and an array of adages that depicts both the South and his relentless trek to be a better painter as a mindset rather than a destination. The Watercolor Road captures Waters’ longing ambition to explore and present this place he calls home in plein air watercolor. Pulling a 16-foot Casita travel trailer behind his Pastormobile, Wyatt roams the rural and urban, country roads and highways, oceans and forests, BBQ joints and local diners — expressing his visceral connection to each locale with his vivid images. His pictorial explorations span from the Arkansas plateaus to the Louisiana bayous, the Blue Ridge Mountains to the low country marshes of South Carolina, across southern farmlands and down to the balmy Florida Keys — with all points in between. “I have wanted to do this for as long as I can remember, to paint the South, the place we call home” said Waters, “And to do so, I had to be there. To feel and experience it directly — not from a studio.” Within this compilation of southern scenery are 22 pages dedicated to his Florida excursion taken this past February. Cruising the road less traveled, Wyatt meandered along the Forgotten Coast down to the Everglades seeking alligators over to Miami’s Vizcaya Museum and Gardens to channel his inner Sargent and down to Key West to visit with Hemingway’s cats. “We saved the last part of the book for Florida. Like saving dessert for last. Driving through Apalachicola, we experienced a nostalgic gulf coast that time seemed to have forgotten. And as we drove along Hwy 98, the lay of the land gradually changed. So subtly and hypnotically was the change that I could not readily put my finger on it,” confessed Waters. “Something was different. The further south we drove, the less southern things felt. Bordered by so much water, there was an island exoticism that was more like the northern Caribbean. We saw grazing cows and horses like we would find throughout the other states, but we also passed tropical plants and iguanas that made us know we weren’t in Mississippi anymore. This was a place where I wanted to return.” Having long contemplated his feelings and observations on painting and living through his writings — The Watercolor Road features the many truths Waters has learned along the way and how he applies them to his art and to his life. The Watercolor Road will appeal to aficionados of southern culture as well as those who enjoy the act of painting and desire a deeper understanding of the “whys” of painting more so than the “how-tos”. Wyatt’s work can be viewed: wyattwaters.com, Facebook: @watersgallery, and Instagram: @wyattwatersgallery More on Wyatt Waters Waters works solely on location – preferring the challenges that both plein air and watercolor present. His philosophy is “if it is interesting to see, it can be a painting.” This approach has led to the publication of seven very successful books including Another Coat of Paint, Painting Home, An Oxford Sketchbook, and in collaboration with Mississippi restauranteur, Robert St. John, A Southern Palate, Southern Seasons, An Italian Palate, and A Mississippi Palate. Additionally, Wyatt can be found on Mississippi Public Broadcasting’s television series, Palate to Palette, with St. John — a traveling culinary and art series set in Italy and Mississippi. Ever the teacher, Wyatt conducts workshops throughout the Southeast, as well as in Italy and the Caribbean. He served two years as a faculty member for Plein Air South — an annual gathering of regional plein air organizations and painting groups Visit wyattwaters.com to learn more about Wyatt and view his work. By ML Staff. Work by Wyatt Waters

The eye-popping sale price of US$69 million on March 11, 2021, for a non-fungible token created by the digital artist Beeple sent shock waves through the art world. More multimillion-dollar sales of these digital assets that exist on a blockchain and are maintained on networked computers soon followed. At the same time, art museums have faced substantial financial shortfalls accelerated by a decline in visitors and donations induced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many have considered taking drastic measures, such as selling treasured artworks, to plug budget gaps. A woman looks at a non-fungible token digital art display in New York City in September 2021. Timothy A. Clary/AFP via Getty Images Can NFTs generate the revenue many museums sorely need? Some are issuing their own tokens, including the British Museum and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. The Miami Institute of Contemporary Art accepted an early NFT from a donor. There’s even an NFT of entire museum called the Museum of Digital Life. Yet, more than six months into this disruption of the art world, museums have generally engaged very little with NFTs. As researchers who examine both the finances of nonprofit organizations and the growth in NFTs, crypto-assets and other associated blockchain applications, we see four primary reasons why museums have failed to turn the NFT craze into a financial windfall. 1. NFTs are complicated The people running museums have expertise encompassing art, education and curation. NFTs are an entirely different realm that’s quite detached from art and have more in common with crypto-currency than typical artworks like paintings and sculptures. What sets NTFs apart from crypto-currencies like bitcoin and ethereum, which are designed to be interchangeable, is that each NFT represents a unique asset. Figuring out how NFTs must be treated, held and valued is hard, and the ability to quickly mint NFTs for auction is not something that may come naturally to museum staff. What’s more, NFTs are typically bought and sold with crypto-currencies, and not many organizations – including museums – regularly make transactions using them. On top of any missing financial know-how and a culture that seeks to minimize risks, there are legal complexities and insurance complications. So we can understand why museums have not rushed into the NFT market. 2. The monetary upside might be missing The connection between the ownership of a piece of art and an NFT associated with that artwork can be confusing. Although it may appear otherwise, the NFT is a separate asset from the art itself. The owners of the art retain ownership even after any NFTs derived from that art are minted and sold. This separation may mean that the owner of the art has no particular ability to turn an affiliated NFT into a big payoff. Much like the value of a painting has little to do with what the paint, canvas and frame are worth, an NFT’s financial value is subjective. It depends on what others are willing to pay. The creators of the underlying art, such as musicians and artists who retain control over their work, can – and do – mint NFTs connected to them. Once art is held in a museum collection, however, the value of NFTs is less clear. Much like an author-autographed copy of a book can be more valuable than a book without that signature, an NFT minted by an artist of a popular artwork can attract interest from collectors. On the other hand, a book signed by the publisher or an NFT minted by a museum is bound to be less appealing to collectors. An artist-minted NFT that a museum holds could fetch more interest. Stated another way, even if a museum possesses valuable artwork, that does not mean minting NFTs is a guaranteed revenue stream. 3. The NFT market values artists, not institutions One underlying reason the market for NFTs tied to artwork has thrived is because buyers view purchasing and holding an NFT as a means to interact with and financially support the artist. More broadly, the ethos is one of decentralization, and NFT buyers are less likely to be enthusiastic about an intermediary joining the fray. An example of the ethos built around supporting artists is the prevalence of smart contracts that secure royalties for the artist that will flow every time an NFT tied to one of their works is sold. In fact, the monetization often touted as the primary upside for museums seeking to jump into the NFT market may not be as simple as initially appears. First, museums need to see whether monetizing their existing collections would in any way undermine public access to collections – potentially violating their missions and bylaws. Second, they must have protocols in place to ensure that proceeds from sales tied to the collection are correctly reinvested. And there’s a risk that this process could inadvertently lead to pieces of the collection being treated as financial instruments if income is being generated from them rather than solely serving as items on display for the public. Moving forward, it remains to be seen whether NFTs will financially benefit brick-and-mortar museums, rather than creating new opportunities for virtual ones. 4. Volatility and uncertainty make NFTs risky Though the high prices they can fetch are eye-catching, there are countless cases of NFTs that quickly become worthless. And, as with crypto-currencies, there’s lots of volatility. The value of several NFTs have undergone massive and dramatic losses, including ones issued by Grimes, A$AP Rocky and John Cena. Relying on NFTs to raise cash may be risky, and the boards of museums may determine that it’s inappropriate for their charitable organization to own them. That means museums may be forced to quickly liquidate any NFT they mint or receive – even if that sale will make the NFT less valuable to the institution. Also, there is still a great deal of uncertainty about what valuable NFTs can do for an art museum’s primary goals. They are neither physical in nature nor works of art. Even digital artwork that can be displayed is separate from any NFT derived from it. To be sure, NFTs are still new. Banks and other traditional financial institutions initially stood on the crypto-currency sidelines but have slowly assumed a bigger role in those markets. It is certainly possibly that something similar will occur with traditional institutions in the art world as the NFT market matures. By Brian Mittendorf, Fisher Designated Professor of Accounting, The Ohio State University, and Sean Stein Smith, Assistant Professor of Economics and Business, Lehman College, CUNY. Special Thanks to The Conversation. Top image by CryptoPunk 3100

American Heritage Schools is pleased to be recognized for its philanthropic distinctions by the South Florida Business Journal (SFBJ) in the publication’s new “Book of Lists” rankings. American Heritage Schools has been ranked as the No. 12 in Corporate Philanthropy in South Florida. Last year, American Heritage Schools proudly supported the community by contributing to over 320 benefitting causes through over $750,000 given in corporate donations and over 625,000 hours of community service. With over 88 student-run clubs, as well as the schools’ Pre-Professional Program partnerships with local hospitals and nonprofit organizations, the philanthropic desire to help others locally and globally is at the heart of everything the students, families, faculty and administrators do at American Heritage Schools. Every year, fundraising goals are surpassed, and there is no limit to what can be accomplished. “At American Heritage Schools, compassion is one of our main pillars and is demonstrated through numerous community involvement and service initiatives that help better our campuses and the world,” said Dr. Douglas Laurie, president of American Heritage Schools. “In addition to this recognition for our corporate philanthropy, I am proud of our students, faculty and administration for their unwavering commitment to giving back both inside and outside of the classroom through partnerships with hospitals and nonprofit organizations throughout the South Florida community.” American Heritage Schools was also ranked as the No. 1 Private School and the No. 24 Largest Employer in South Florida in the “Book of Lists” rankings. SFBJ is the leading source for business news, data and networking in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. SFBJ’s “Book of Lists” provides readers with more than 1,000 of the most significant area companies in their fields, by ranking. Since its founding over 55 years ago, American Heritage Schools has become known as a leading private school for academic excellence throughout the nation, and enrollment has steadily increased to approximately 4,800 students in PK3 through 12th grades at the Broward and Palm Beach campuses. A strong work ethic is evident in all facets of American Heritage Schools. American Heritage Schools in Broward, Florida, is the No. 1 high school in Florida and No. 2 private school in the nation for the highest number of National Merit Scholars; the Schools’ Palm Beach campus is No. 2 school in Florida and the No. 5 private school in the nation for the highest number of National Merit Scholars. The school is home to the No. 1 math competition team out of all private schools in the U.S. The Model UN team is top 3 in the nation, and the Speech and Debate team is in the top 1% in the nation. American Heritage Schools is the No. 1 K-12 Private School in Florida, according to Niche. To learn more about American Heritage Schools’ recognition, please visit here. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of American Heritage Schools

With a territory of only 19,700 square miles (roughly the size of Denmark or the state of West Virginia), Costa Rica holds a distinguished three-pronged stake in the stage of international fame: it is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, one of the happiest places on earth, and home to one of the only five Blue Zones on the planet – regions of the world where longevity reigns. Flanked by two oceans, intersected by five towering mountain ranges, and home to over two hundred volcanic formations (of which only 5 are active), this relatively small Central American country is host to a remarkable 12 ecosystems. And it shows. Anyone who visits will experience a richness, diversity and intensity of the natural world that will leave them extraordinarily enlivened. Add to this a burgeoning market of unique, luxury eco-lodging, and Costa Rica has become a destination that leaves one coming back for more (and more). EASY ACCESS Located an easy 2.5 hour flight from Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports, Costa Rica has two international airports (San Jose and Liberia) which facilitate access to different regions of the country. American Airlines offers the greatest amount of weekly flights but you can also choose to fly on United, JetBlue, Spirit Airlines and more. Direct flights to San Jose are also available from Los Angeles, Atlanta, New York and Minneapolis. CHOOSE & EXPLORE Miami Living Magazine presents you with 4 lush regions of Costa Rica together with luxurious stay options in each for you to flavor and indulge in. ARENAL Northwest Region Driving time from San José: 2 hr 57 min, 56 miles (138 km) The Arenal Volcano is one of the most popular and accessible eco-adventure destinations in the country. Located a scenic 2.5 hour drive from San Jose airport or 3 hour drive from Liberia airport, the Arenal Volcano is without a doubt the most well-recognized volcano of the country due to its distinct and impressive conical peak. Until recently it was ranked amongst the top ten most active volcanoes in the world with up to 41 eruptions a day. Currently in a resting phase, the volcano is a landmark for fertile surroundings, unique microclimates and ecosystems, making it home to a variety of exotic species and exciting adventures. Known as the adventure capital of Costa Rica, a visit to Arenal volcano can take you through thermal hot springs, waterfall hikes, hanging bridge jungle tours, spelunking and canopy zip lining thrills all in one weekend. Explore the 30,000 acres of biological reserve within the Arenal Volcano National Park in search of old lava flow trails, dormant crater hikes and abundant wildlife sighting while getting the most up-close-and-personal views possible of the volcano. Soak in the numerous volcano-fed, mineral-rich thermal hot springs that have been used as therapeutic baths for over 200 years. Discover the forest canopy by aerial tram or zipline in one of the most popular destinations for ziplining and aerial excursions in the country. Hike to and swim in the La Fortuna waterfall, a 200 foot high waterfall considered to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica. Hike through the Arenal Hanging Bridges private nature preserve along well-maintained trails and across a series of impressive, fixed and hanging high-altitude bridges inside the rainforest with equally spectacular views of the Arenal Volcano. Go spelunking at Venado Caves, an underground wonder world of limestone channels nearly 20 million years old. Click below to launch slideshow > STAY IN LUXURY NAYARA GARDENS 702 Road 21007, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, Costa Rica www.nayaragardens.com (888) 332-2961 OVERVIEW Nestled in the footsteps of one of Costa Rica’s most treasured natural wonders, the Arenal Volcano, Nayara Gardens Relais & Chateaux has been consistently rated as one of the top hotels in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, Forbes Travel, Travel + Leisure and more. Upon arrival, be immediately swept away by breathtaking gardens of indigenous flora and fauna also featuring colorful koi fish and lilypad ponds. Nayara Gardens is the ideal hotel for the adventurous traveler seeking a combination of luxury and outdoor exploration. Enjoy personalized, high-level service from experienced staff and its signature “Pura Vida’’ hospitality. Click below to launch slideshow > ACCOMMODATIONS Nayara Garden’s unique accommodations consist of “free-standing” luxurious bungalows surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Choose from Rainforest Villas, Casita Deluxe, Spring Villas (available at Nayara Springs) and Tented Camps. All accommodations feature outdoor terraces, oversized jacuzzi tubs, private outdoor showers, and include all modern amenities such as high speed internet, AC, TV, espresso maker and more. Architecturally speaking, all accommodations feature an open-style layout to ensure maximum connectivity with its lush natural setting including Arenal Volcano. Complimentary services include daily yoga classes, gym/fitness center, personal host, complimentary laundry, twice daily maid service, free calls to the US & Canada and more. Other notable complimentary offers include fresh fruit upon arrival and free daily a-la-carte breakfast served by the pool or out on the terrace in your own room. EXPERIENCES Gastronomical experiences are available at Nayara Gardens’ dining destinations including “Asian Luna” featuring Asian fusion with Peruvian Nikkei and “La Terraza” offering International dishes including traditional Costa Rican cuisine. Other gastronomical spots include “Mi Cafecito” (Espresso Bar) and “Nostalgia” (Wine and Tapas Bar). With thermal hot spring pools available in each accommodation, bathe in mineral rich water straight from the volcano – a truly unique and luxuriant experience. Other notable property features include Nayara’s “Ternas”, seven mineral hot springs pools secluded in the rainforest also offering a range of curated activities. For a memorable adventure experience choose from white-water rafting on the Sarapiqui River, hiking on the Arenal Volcano, mountain biking, zip lining, bird watching or book a night tour with one of Nayara’s expert guides for a multi-colored frogs night-sighting experience or day nature exploration tours. Click below to launch slideshow > ORIGINS Lodge Pueblo Nuevo, Bijagua, Alajuela, Costa Rica www.originslodge.com +506 4001 5356 OVERVIEW Remote, natural and raw, the elusive luxuriousness of ORIGINS Lodge seems to be in a world of its own. Located in the northern highlands of Costa Rica, it sits high atop a mountain with a central masterpiece: a breathtaking 180 degree panoramic view of the majestic Lake Nicaragua and its surrounding valley. The property consists of 45 hectares (111 acres) of pristine nature fostering high-level environmental and social sustainability practices. It is an ideal destination for those seeking to escape and connect with nature, body, mind and spirit. Arrive by private helicopter or drive to ORIGINS Lodge through an unassuming, unpaved rural road, the unique experience that is Origins begins just in the getting there. Upon entering the property, prepare to be transported into a grand immaculate natural world of tropical rainforest and lagoons, showcasing over 150 different species of local plants and exotic birds and frogs. Click below to launch slideshow > ACCOMMODATIONS ORIGINS features six luxury eco-lodges inspired by the pre-Columbian architecture of Costa Rica. These stand-alone structures are remarkably circular in shape and made of sustainable and renewable materials minimizing its environmental impact without compromising comfort. Each comes with handcrafted canopy beds, a striking and unique skylight teepee, fire-heated hot tub on the terrace, indoor and outdoor showers and a prized view of its spectacular landscape. If you are looking for larger accommodations, “Villa Vertigo” is a three-bedroom luxury residence perched on the property’s hillside among the canopy. The suspended architectural villa has 1,000 sq. ft. of living space. It is exquisitely decorated with handcrafted works by local artists, containing all modern amenities including a fully equipped kitchen. Notable is the grand terrace exhibiting a180-degree panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and an oversized fire-heated jacuzzi. If desired, ORIGINS allows you to book the entire property – ideal for special occasions such as intimate weddings and special gatherings. It is worth mentioning that there are no TVs nor digital distractions anywhere on the property and may not be as suitable for young children. EXPERIENCES Michelin-starred chef Jean-Luc L’Hourre is the mastermind behind El Salto, ORIGIN’s star restaurant and gastronomical experience. Savor haute French cuisine fused with Costa Rican’s flavors by Sous Chef, Manuel Ricardo Marroquin Badilla who heads all kitchen operations. All dishes use organic, locally-sourced ingredients from ORIGIN’s own gardens including an on-site fish production. An impressive international wine collection is also available. El Salto is located in the central building and gathering place of the property, which features a lounge bar, entertainment center (billiard table, games, books and music), hot tub, and a large infinity pool with mesmerizing views of Lake Nicaragua. For those looking to rejuvenate, ORIGINS offers extensive wellness and holistic healing programs including holistic therapies, yoga at its majestic “Koora Yoga” sanctuary, massage therapy, reflexology, nervous system release therapy, meditation, energy healing, sound and vibration therapy, emotional release therapy (biodecoding) and more. If you are in the mood for something more adventurous, choose from an abundance of tailored-made experiences including nature-guided tours, hikes, cacao plantation tours, horseback riding and more. Taking pride in its high-level sustainability culture, ORIGINS offers integrated practices including composting its organic waste, a nearly plastic-free and chemical-free environment, plus a bold reforestation project which has yielded 200 new trees annually. ORIGINS also executes socially-focused initiatives designed to support the local community with education, health and sports programs. By Adriana Garuolis & Markin Abras. Images courtesy of each featured property.

This tiny beach town located in the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula within the north Pacific region of the country has received international acclaim as one of the hippest and coolest surf and yoga jungle beach towns in the world. Located a 5.5 hour journey from San Jose airport (including a 1 hour ferry ride) or a 4 hour drive from the Liberia airport, your adventure odyssey to Santa Teresa continues upon arrival and will mark your entire stay there. Due to its one main road purposely maintained as a dirt road (to deter crowds and overdevelopment), rugged ATV’s are the preferred mode of transportation. On and around them, get ready to see loads of surfboards, surfers and their happy doggies at every corner of your vision scape; in fact, the primary reason many people come to Santa Teresa is for surfing. Santa Teresa is a surfer’s paradise town that draws in an eclectic, attractive crowd that enjoys a high vibing life in harmony with an intensely present natural world. SANTA TERESA Western Edge Region of the Nicoya Peninsula, Pacific Ocean Driving time from San José: 5 hr 19 min, 115 miles (185 km) Go beach-hopping and explore any or all of the three expansive beaches lining Santa Teresa: Hermosa Beach, La Lora Beach, and Carmen Beach, each one known for its different levels of wave action, epic surf breaks and tropical dry forest jungle surroundings. Experience world-class yoga instruction in the beautiful nestled-in-beachside-nature yoga studios of Pranamar Villas & Yoga Retreat, Florblanca Luxury Resort and Horizon Hotel & Yoga Center. Delight your taste buds in what is arguably and surprisingly home to some of the best culinary experiences in the country: visit Eat Street Cafe, an open air restaurant market offering thoughtfully prepared fresh dishes and enzyme-packed natural juices and smoothies; indulge in Koji’s Restaurant, delectable cuisine inspired by the Japanese kitchen and in the hands of exceptional local Japanese sushi master Koji Hyodo; nourish in Vermu, healthy international-fare bistro & café with the best breakfasts in town. Click below to launch slideshow > STAY IN LUXURY CASA ALIKI Private Residency at Maramar Oceanside-Eco Community Cobano Santa Teresa, 60111, Costa Rica Instagram: www.instagram.com/casa_aliki AirBNB: www.airbnb.com/h/casaaliki Click below to launch slideshow > OVERVIEW Welcome to Casa Aliki, a two-story modern luxury villa with dual balconies overlooking the Pacific Ocean and surrounding tropical jungle. It is located in the heart of Santa Teresa, within the exclusive, highly secure gated community of Maramar. Certain to win you over with its breathtaking views, this stand-alone house has an open design that invites the rainforest and ocean into every one of its attractive living spaces: 4 bedrooms (with a/c), 2 living rooms, private pool and bbq area, and fully equipped gourmet kitchen. From the expansive sunset terrace on which sits a grand dining table, you will be delightfully and sensorially enchanted by your surroundings, commonly sighting a variety of exotic birds, monkeys and iguanas as well as surfers and whales (during season) in the oceanic distance. With room for up to 14 guests, Casa Aliki is an exquisite combination of comfort, style and natural surroundings for your short or long-term stay. Click below to launch slideshow > Nantipa Hotel Santa Teresa, Puntarenas, Costa Rica www.nantipa.com 1-855-626-8472 OVERVIEW Nantipa Hotel is a luxurious beachfront boutique hotel located in the heart of the famed beach town of Santa Teresa. Nantipa - which means ‘blue’ in Chorotegan (the language of the native indigenous tribe of the area) - has been recognized amongst the top boutique hotels of Santa Teresa, with a trademark relaxed barefoot atmosphere hand in hand with high luxury amenities and services. With a raw and exquisitely verdant, native flora foundation richly enveloping the whole of this 5.68 acre beachfront property, Nantipa features a gorgeous tropical central pool and is an ideal stay for couples and families. Beach hop along the Nicoya Peninsula, explore the surrounding Santa Teresian jungle or enjoy the town’s charming local restaurants and cafés by foot, thanks to Nantipa’s central location. Click below to launch slideshow > ACCOMMODATIONS Nantipa offers three types of lodging options that, like the hotel itself, are respectfully identified by their beautiful Chorotegan descriptor names: the Ninta Beachfront Bungalows, Ninta Pool View Bungalows, and Nanku Suites. “Ninta” is the Chorotegan word for “beach” while “Nanku” is the Chorotegan word for “home”. The accommodations offer either full/partial ocean views or garden/pool views. All room options are spacious (700 - 800 sq ft of living space) and come equipped with modern amenities such as AC, flat-screen TV, small dining table, Wifi, minibar and a work desk. The Nanku Suites can accommodate up to four adults and feature both a large living area and terrace or balcony. The slightly larger Ninta Bungalows feature indoor and outdoor showers, a large terrace, a private plunge pool, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows showcasing mesmerizing ocean/pool views and sunsets. EXPERIENCES Savour your taste buds at Manzú Restaurant which is steps away from the ocean. Designed to remind you of the palmed thatched huts in which the ancient Chorotegans used to live, the beachfront Manzú offers an international menu fused with Costa Rican cuisine, all plates made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. For memorable sunset viewing, head out to Manzú’s beach bar for signature tropical cocktails designed by the Mulberry Project and based on exotic local fruits and flavors. Featuring beach hammocks and curated music, it is an ideal and popular spot in Santa Teresa to cherish nightfall. For a romantic and unforgettable evening, choose the “Under the Stars” gastronomical experience. Savor a 6-course dinner under the stars and with the sounds of the ocean, along with a bottle of wine from Manzu’s special selection. Or enjoy a 3-course meal, candlelight dining experience on a table set up inside the pool, featuring a glass of sparkling wine upon arrival and a bottle of wine from the chef’s special selection. Ninta Bungalow guests have the option of a romantic 3-course dinner to be set up in the privacy of their own patio and lounge pool. For a blissful mind-body-soul healing experience, Nantipa offers a transcendental all-inclusive wellness package. All holistic arrangements are taken care of, including transportation, gourmet meals, a dedicated wellness practitioner, beach meditation, numerous curated yoga practices, Ayurvedic marma therapy session, personal training sessions and more. For the adventurous person, Nantipa offers off-site activities such as surf lessons, guide tours to Curú Reserve, Montezuma Waterfall hiking, horseback riding, ziplining, Tortuga Island tour and more. Strong sustainability practices are also in full swing at Nantipa including property-wide reduction of single-use plastic, recycling practices, solar water heaters, a daily beach cleaning practice initiative and community outreach programs. Click below to launch slideshow > PRANAMAR Pranamar Villas & Yoga Retreat Villa Bonita Dr, Puntarenas Province, Punta Arenas, 99999, Costa Rica +506 2640 0852 www.pranamarvillas.com OVERVIEW Just a 10 minute jungle-beachside drive away from the Santa Teresa town center, Pranamar’s remote location appeals to those seeking sublime tranquility. Its prime location sits oceanfront and walking distance to Playa Hermosa, a beach prized for its vastness, tide pool landscapes, and gentle wave action. Pranamar has become an international destination for yogis, surfers and anyone looking for a joyful, rejuvenating and inspirational stay. This intimate, consciously-designed resort features lush narrow pathways winding all throughout its property, speckled with exotic birds such as the white-throated magpie-jay, hummingbirds, and pelicans, all leading out to a spacious beachfront area, inviting guests to come out and play or relax and enjoy captivating sunsets over the ocean. Click below to launch slideshow > ACCOMMODATIONS A Balinese-inspired flair marks Pranamar’s architectural style and design, enhancing its strong yoga culture theme. Choose from Ocean Front Villas, Poolside Villas, Bungalows and the Kula House. The Ocean Front Villa is a two story home featuring hand-crafted Indonesian furniture, hardwood floors, granite stone tubs, and an exotic interior design. Suitable for up to four adults, it features a spacious living room, full kitchen, outdoor terrace, two bedrooms with AC, open-air bathroom, outdoor jungle shower and oversized verandas providing unobstructed ocean views and sounds as well as its natural surroundings. The Poolside Villa features equally charming characteristics as the Ocean Front Villa but it instead faces the picturesque Pranamar pool, the centerpiece of the hotel. For larger groups, up to 7 individuals, choose Kula house. Its spacious layout features a large deck and terrace with ocean view, 2 bedrooms with A/C, full kitchen, and all standard hotel amenities. Bungalows are built with sustainable pinewood and are ideal for couples. It also features A/C, living space, deck with table and chairs, fans and other amenities. EXPERIENCES To come together, learn, celebrate, grow and ultimately experience the Divinity in all lies at the heart of Pranamar’s mission. Group yoga classes as well as private instruction are offered daily by seasoned, world-class instructors in Pranamar’s gorgeous and inspiring pool-side shala. A comprehensive and transformative 200-hour Yoga & Meditation teacher training module is offered annually and the next module dates will take place from September 4th to 25th, 2021. Other experiences include the Mal País Canopy tour, fishing and snorkeling tours, horseback riding, Montezuma Falls discovery tour on ATV, surfing lessons, paddle boarding, Cabo Blanco Reserve guided hike and more. There is also an on-site spa offering 90-minute focused treatments with signature names that ring of healing transformation, such as: Expansion Inner Body Bright, Creating Space Akashic Experience, Restoration and Recovery, and the Yogi’s Path Integration and Flexibility bodywork sessions. Pranamar’s singular culinary gemstone, Kavita Restaurant dons beautiful high bamboo ceilings and overlooks the serene lagoon pool. With a strong emphasis on using fresh, organic and locally sourced products whenever possible, local Executive Chef Norman Roqhuett Mata passionately and creatively masterminds all culinary experiences at Kavita. Prepare to be wowed by exotic fruit and vegetable combinations within all Kavita’s gastronomical offerings which are inspired by Pacific Rim and Asian cuisine combined with traditional Costa Rican fare. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served daily and the restaurant is open to the public. Dinner reservations are recommended. A meal at Kavita is unforgettable in taste and presentation and nutritious in essence, make sure not to miss out on this delightful experience. Chef Norman studied at San Sebastian Gastronomical School in the Basque region of Spain and you can connect with him and his restaurant on www.instagram.com/kavita_cr . By Adriana Garuolis & Markin Abras. Images courtesy of each featured property.

In what seems to be in a world of its own, the northern highlands of Costa Rica is an area of the country that feels distinctly off the beaten track. With its unique blend of distinct volcanic geology and lush forest teeming with exotic fauna, this area of Costa Rica is a 2 hour drive from Liberia airport or a 5 hour drive from the San Jose airport. Home to several modest lodging options and a few notable upscale resorts, there is an abundance of outdoor activities to partake in during a visit to this northern territory. THE NORTHERN HIGHLANDS North Central Region Driving time from San José: 3 hr 55 min, 115 miles (185 km) Visit the Tenorio Volcano National Park and its vibrantly turquoise blue waters of the iconic Rio Celeste river. Explore the relatively untapped and unfrequented Miravalles Volcano, known for its thermal hot spring pools as well as the Llanos de Cortez waterfall, the most stunning waterfall in the entire northern province of Guanacaste. Journey into the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, a phenomenal bird-watching and sightseeing heaven considered to be the third most important wetland in the world. Discover Lake Arenal, the country’s largest landlocked body of water which is known for its drive-around/bike-around rolling hills beauty and the great variety of water sports one can practice in it (such as kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, kite boarding and fishing). By Adriana Garuolis & Markin Abras. Images courtesy of each featured property.