Through my blog posts, I’ll share personal reflections on the topics that come up during my travels, along with insights and tips on some of my favorite spots around the world, all to help make your own adventures even more meaningful.
My Favorite Residences Around the World
With a residence, you get the best of both worlds: tons of space, plus the service and amenities of a five-star hotel.
Image courtesy of Rocco Forte House
Sometimes a vacation calls for a bit more room. That’s where residences come in. With a residence, you get the best of both worlds: tons of space, plus the service and amenities of a five-star hotel. You’re on vacation, after all, and sometimes you want extra space to unwind. Plus, residences are especially great for families or group trips.
Below, I’ve rounded up 10 of my favorite residences, some of which are part of a traditional hotel, others of which are stand-alone getaways operated by Fora's partners. Regardless, each property is expansive, beautifully designed and equipped with an impressive array of amenities to ensure your stay with a larger group is nothing short of excellent.
One&Only Aesthesis
Image courtesy of One&Only Aesthesis
One&Only Aesthesis is a newcomer to the Athenian Riviera, a glamorous coastal destination in the southern suburbs of Greece’s capital city. And the resort’s residences may just be the Riviera’s most glamorous accommodations. The two- and three-bedroom retreats are surrounded by forest and overlook the Aegean.
Their breezy design incorporates an indoor-outdoor style that celebrates the stunning natural surroundings. Private pools, gardens and terraces provide the utmost relaxation. Inside, natural textures, stone and a keen inclination for mid-century modern design contribute to an overall feeling of tranquility. Each residence, whether with a view of leafy manicured gardens or the sparkling ocean, is a veritable Mediterranean oasis.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Edgewood Villa Suites
Images courtesy of Edgewood Tahoe
These sprawling, two- to five-bedroom residences sit just beside the main lodge, or on the eighth and ninth fairways of Edgewood’s famed golf course. Part of the beauty of Edgewood is that there’s no bad time to visit.
In the summer, the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe await, with numerous water sports to choose from — paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, et. al. In the winter, you’ll have seamless access to world-class ski mountains. Regardless of when you visit, Edgewood’s Villa Suites more than deliver. The alpine-chic spaces boast giant windows framing unbeatable views of the surrounding mountain landscape. Private patios (which are heated) come with jacuzzis, firepits and there are family s’more kits.
There are modern kitchens and cozy dining rooms. But if you don’t feel like grocery shopping, not to worry: You’ll have access to hyper-personal service when staying in a Villa Suite.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit, $60 daily breakfast credit, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection
Image courtesy of Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection
If you’ve always wanted a stylish alpine cabin, Telluride’s Madeline Hotel & Residences has you covered. Their residences are cozy, well-designed retreats with anywhere from one to four bedrooms, many of which have private balconies with views of the Rocky Mountains.
By staying in a residence, you’ll have access to a dedicated Residence Services Team, a slopeside ski valet, ski-in / ski-out access and all the comforts of a private home.
The skiing is prime. But don’t underestimate a summer stay. Each residence is near gorgeous hiking trails and a rugged outdoor playground primed for active exploration.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit, $45 daily breakfast credit, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Rocco Forte House
Image courtesy of Rocco Forte House
The word “house” doesn’t quite do this residence collection justice. Rocco Forte House, which overlooks Rome’s famed Piazza di Spagna, is in fact an 18th-century palazzo with five apartments. Each expansive space comes with a dining room, a living room, a beautiful modern kitchen and two double bedrooms. Some of the apartments can even be connected to form four-bedroom residences.
There’s a communal rooftop on the fifth floor, complete with an honesty bar and sweeping city views. In typical Rocco Forte fashion, the interiors are vibrant and chic, courtesy of interior designer Tommaso Ziffer, who has worked extensively with both Valentino and Rocco Forte’s own Director of Design, Olga Polizzi. Patterned wallpaper lines the walls, which complement the sumptuous fabrics, gem-toned hues and striking artwork throughout the tasteful spaces.
A dedicated House Concierge will help with any and all requests, and you’ll still be able to access all of the amenities of Rocco Forte’s Hotel de la Ville, just across the street. Enjoy a curated breakfast basket delivered each morning before hopping on a complimentary city bike for exploring.
If you really want to go all out, you can hire a private chef to prepare a gourmet meal in your kitchen, have your apartment’s library populated with your favorite books and music, schedule a personal training session and more. Prepare to be treated like royalty.
Fora Perks:
Daily breakfast basket, welcome amenities, dedicated House Concierge & additional exclusive offers.
Nobu Residences Los Cabos
Image courtesy of Nobu Residences Los Cabos
If you love Nobu’s sleek, effortlessly cool aesthetic, then you’ll love their Los Cabos residences. Each of the 60 suites feels blissfully private and exclusive. Each residence comes with giant bathtubs, a washer and dryer, a personal concierge and private pools and multiple king beds.
Expect stylish minimalism and clean, Japanese-inflected interior design: lots of wood, symmetry, muted colors and a pervasive tranquil vibe.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit, $50 daily breakfast credit, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Castello di Reschio
Image courtesy of Castello di Reschio
Castello di Reschio’s eight stunning residences are, in fact, meticulously restored farmhouses. Their Umbrian countryside setting feels like a dream, which is made only more dreamlike as you enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast sourced from Reschio’s own property.
I'll help you choose the best house for you and your travel companions. Consider Tisciano, for instance, which has its own aromatic garden filled with lavender, thyme, fennel and pomegranate trees. Or perhaps the hilltop Grugliano is more your style, with its more homey, traditional décor, bocce court and covered loggia equipped with a bread oven and barbeque. Bell’Aria is another excellent choice; Italian elegance mixes with English charm. The luxury is dialed up with its on-site tennis court, sleek swimming pool and array of outdoor lounges and outdoor.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, complimentary roundtrip private airport transfers, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Muscat
Image courtesy of Mandarin Oriental, Muscat
Mandarin Oriental has incredible residences all over the world, but Muscat is special. The Omani capital hosts 156 such spaces, all of which are located within a luxury beachfront real-estate development. The luxe exclusivity begins from the moment you check in. There’s a dedicated Resident lobby, plus a VIP lounge.
The apartments are modern and sophisticated, with one to three bedrooms and an ornate flair you’d expect from the desert oasis. (There are also four bedroom penthouses available.) The complex has its own palm tree-lined swimming pool, kids’ pool, game room, theater, private courtyard and rooftop lounge. Plus, you’ll get direct access to the beach.
Fora Perks:
When you book Mandarin Oriental with me, you will enjoy exclusive Fan Club preferred partner amenities. I'll be pleased to give you more details.
Casa Majani
Image courtesy of Casa Majani
Punta Mita is always a good idea, especially when you can stay in a fully staffed beachfront villa. Casa Majani is the six-bedroom Mexican hideaway you never knew you needed.
Renowned architects Manolo Mestre and Juan Collignon designed the open-air residence. A thatch-roofed palapa stands in its center, where you’ll be able to enjoy fresh food on a locally made wooden table. There are two beautiful pools, including one with 150 feet of an infinity edge.
Inside, take advantage of the yoga studio, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame ocean views, as well as the air-conditioned gym, equipped with free weights, a treadmill and an elliptical. There are paddleboards, kayaks and bikes on site. Plus, depending on the season, you can access nearby amenities, including residential beach clubs, tennis and pickleball courts, a golf course and a fitness center.
Fora Perks:
Welcome amenities & a complimentary bottle of local wine.
Magee Homestead at Brush Creek
Image courtesy of Magee Homestead at Brush Creek
Brush Creek Ranch is a 30,000-acre ranch in Saratoga, Wyoming. It comprises three properties, one of which is the adults-only Magee Homestead. Although, kids are allowed if you want to buy out the entire property. There are nine rustic-chic cabins with between one and three bedrooms.
A stay at Magee would not be complete without visiting its holistic spa — if not for a treatment, then at least for a session in the sauna, steam room or outdoor jacuzzi. It’s the perfect way to recover after a day of outdoor adventures. The ranch is all-inclusive, and the included activities range from fly fishing and rock climbing to forest bathing and archery.
The food, too, is included — and excellent. Produce is sourced from the ranch’s greenhouse, best enjoyed with a selection from Magee’s robust wine and spirits menu. And during the summer months, take advantage of poolside cocktail experiences, like tequila and beer tastings, Champagne sabering and mixology classes.
Fora Perks:
$150 hotel / resort credit per person & an upgrade whenever possible.
Villa San Luigi, COMO Castello Del Nero
Image courtesy of Villa San Luigi, COMO Castello Del Nero
If you’ve fantasized about having your own private villa in the Tuscan countryside, you’re not alone. And, luckily, dreams do come true. COMO Castello Del Noro’s five-bedroom Villa San Luigi is a short drive away from the hotel property. It feels private and special, but not too far removed from the hotel’s five-star amenities. Once you go through your private check-in process, you may never want to leave. Nor will you have to.
The expansive estate is countryside-chic, with a stylishly pale color palette that still feels inviting and quintessentially Italian. The villa comes with its own cinema, study room and library. There are indoor and outdoor dining spaces, plus a dedicated wellness area equipped with a sauna, yoga studio, steam bath and gym. After your workout, cool off in the sleek outdoor swimming pool, which overlooks the region’s rolling hills.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, complimentary roundtrip private airport transfers, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Travel Like the VIP You Are
There are many reasons to book with a Fora Advisor. But a big one is the complimentary travel perks you automatically unlock when you let me do all the heavy lifting for you.
There are many reasons to book with a Fora Advisor. But a big one is the complimentary travel perks you automatically unlock when you let me do all the heavy lifting for you.
As a Fora Advisor, I can access VIP perks and benefits at over 5,500 hotels around the world, thanks to Fora’s preferred status at these partner properties. Preferred partner programs — like Four Seasons Preferred, Virtuoso, Rosewood Elite and Hyatt Privé, to name a few — are akin to exclusive clubs. Such programs are often invitation-only, and require inductees (like Fora) to meet certain milestones and criteria.
And the exclusivity is merited: Perks include things like complimentary spa treatments, upgrades, special amenities, daily breakfast and extended check-in/out times. Such benefits can’t be offered to everyone.
Fora is part of every major preferred partner program. And it also has its own in-house partner program, Fora Reserve. Fora Reserve gets you perks and amenities at hotels that aren’t necessarily part of a preexisting program. Or, if a hotel is in fact part of another program, Fora has negotiated unique, enhanced perks you can’t get anywhere else. In other words, when you book with me, you’ll be treated like a VIP virtually wherever you go.
Reach out to start planning your dream getaway. In the meantime, I've listed a few partner hotels below to spark your wanderlust.
Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection
Image courtesy of Hacienda AltaGracia
This sprawling resort in the jungly mountains of Costa Rica is worthy of any bucket list. Come for the wellness (the glass-walled, plant-filled, hilltop atrium that comprises the spa is a sight to behold), but stay for the exceptionally warm service and nourishing, locally sourced food. Book with me to snag Fora Reserve perks on top of Virtuoso amenities.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit, $100 dining / experience credit, breakfast daily & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Prince Akatoki London
Image courtesy of The Prince Akatoki London
This Fora Reserve gem sits in the heart of Mayfair, steps from Hyde Park. It’s intimate and luxurious, with a zen Japanese aesthetic. Plus, its price point is beautifully approachable — a welcome and unexpected surprise for the level of service and exclusivity the hotel offers.
Fora Perks:
$100 food / beverage credit, a welcome amenity, complimentary daily soft drinks from the minibar, breakfast daily, turndown Japanese tea service, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Warren Street Hotel
Images courtesy of Simon Brown for Warren Street Hotel
Kit Kemp, the designer behind Firmdale Hotels’ eclectic, chic, bold design, is a master of taste. Warren Street Hotel, in New York City’s TriBeCa neighborhood, is the latest addition to the brand’s portfolio. It feels like a stylish secret, reserved for savvy locals and in-the-know travelers. Expect bold patterns, vibrant wallpaper and a masterful art curation.
Fora Perks:
$100 food / beverage credit, a welcome amenity, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Passalacqua
Image courtesy of Passalacqua
This magical palazzo overlooking Lake Como is a love letter to Italian craftsmanship. The owner, Valentina DeSantis, and her family lovingly populated the gem with objects and décor sourced from Italian artisans as well as their personal travels. Even the hotel’s gardens are a work of art, perpetually serenaded by soft music piped throughout the grounds.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
My Favorite Michelin Key Hotels in Spain
My favorite Michelin Key hotels in Spain. Some of the best hotel experiences in the all of Spain, with great perks when you book with me..
Image courtesy of La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel
The Michelin Key was born in France, and has made its way to Spain. From countryside eco-retreats to urban palaces and boutique gems, the Michelin team has done it again, applying their discerning, expertly honed taste to the country’s best places to stay.
Read on for a few of my favorite Michelin Key hotels in Spain. At the end of each section — three Keys, two Keys and one Key — you’ll also find the remaining Key hotels, all of which merit a visit. When you're ready to jet off, reach out to plan and book your trip.
Three-Key hotels
Five hotels in Spain were bestowed with this enviable honor. Each three-Key property goes above and beyond in every way. They’re destinations in and of themselves.
Matarraña: Torre del Marqués Hotel Spa & Winery
Image courtesy of Torre del Marqués Hotel Spa & Winery
If you love organic wine and a serious locavore approach to fine dining, you’ll love the 18-room Torre del Marqués, a beautifully renovated 18th-century masía in Spain’s Aragon region.
The property is committed to sustainability. It maintains two organic orchards — one for summer, one for winter — plus olive groves and an organic vineyard. (Aragon is famous for its olive oil and wine, after all.) The orchards, vineyard and olive groves are watered solely with collected rainwater, and are cultivated using the hotel’s organic compost.
Sustainability extends beyond growing methods and energy efficiency, (and I love how they’ve eliminated plastics from their manufacturing processes and supply chain). Torres del Marqués hires locally, too, and champions a sustainable approach to supporting the local community. During renovations, the hotel hired a local architect, and building materials were sourced within a 50-mile radius. Any food the property doesn’t produce itself, it sources from sustainable, small local suppliers.
Don’t miss a private picnic in the orchard forest, nor a spa treatment. Luxuriate in the spa’s hot springs area, Turkish bath and sauna before or after a treatment courtesy of Natura Bissé.
Fora Perks:
$50 spa credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Valladolid: Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine
Image courtesy of Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine
Art lovers will rejoice at this tranquil 30-room retreat, housed in a 12th-century abbey. The hotel is a veritable art gallery, with works from the Renaissance up to the 20th century. Expect pieces from artists including Guardi, Panini, Miró and Palma the Younger, in addition to French tapestries and intricate bargueños, old Spanish desks. The most recent addition to the collection is a sleek metal sculpture from the Spanish artist Eduardo Chillida.
The subterranean Santuario Spa is located in the abbey’s former stables. There’s even a dedicated spa sommelier: Sample wines and try different essential oils before he designs a custom treatment for you.
Sip on varietals from the estate’s winery at all of Abadía Retuerta LeDomaine’s dining outlets, which prioritize local produce, if not ingredients grown in their own vegetable garden. One of the restaurants, Refectorio, boasts both a Michelin Star and a Michelin Green Star, a marker of sustainability.
Fora Perks:
$100 spa credit, complimentary spa sommelier experience when booking any massage ritual treatment, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Madrid: Mandarin Oriental Ritz
Image courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Ritz
This Belle Époque palace in Spain’s capital is a study in luxury. Rooms and common spaces are timeless and classic, with ornate details like crystal chandeliers, golden accents and sophisticated furniture — all with a refined modern flair.
The location is prime: Mandarin Oriental Ritz is steps away from the city’s famed Retiro Park and Golden Triangle of Art, a cultural trifecta that includes the Museo del Prado, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museo Nacional.
Unique private experiences abound: watch a soccer match from a VIP area, embark on an eBike tour, take a paella masterclass or explore the city’s gastronomic dynamism firsthand through expert-led market tours and tastings. After a day of exploring, retreat to the hotel’s luxe spa, complete with a white-marble indoor pool.
In the evening, sip a glass of Champagne in the al-fresco El Jardin del Ritz before heading to the two-Michelin-Starred Deessa for an exquisite tasting menu.
Fora Perks:
When you book Mandarin Oriental with a me, you will enjoy exclusive Fan Club preferred partner amenities. I'll be pleased to give you more details.
Two-Key hotels
The 12 two-Key hotels across Spain all have exceptional, thoughtful design and a strong sense of place.
Mallorca: La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel
Image courtesy of La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel
For an intimate, cultural and luxurious island getaway, head to Belmond’s La Residencia. The hotel is one of Fora’s top 10 most-booked hotels in Spain, and Fora's number-one hotel in Mallorca. Meticulously restored 16th- and 17th-century hilltop manors serve as the setting for the elegant, stunning property, which sits amidst ancient olive and citrus groves.
La Residencia is near the artists’ village Deià, in the Tramuntana Mountains (themselves a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Belmond even offers a complimentary art tour, where guests can explore the town, meet local artists and watch them work in their studios. (Guests can also take painting and sculpting classes with the hotel’s resident artist.)
Each of the 71 rooms (which includes a villa), are outfitted with local antiques, artwork and fabrics. In fact, the hotel features work from 85 local artists, plus 33 original Miró paintings. If you’re really a fan of the latter artist, dine amongst his work while enjoying live music and aperitifs in the hotel’s Restaurante Miró. For a fine-dining moment, opt for dinner at El Olivo. The restaurant serves an elevated Mediterranean menu in a 17th-century olive mill.
La Residencia is also family-friendly. Louisa shared that her kids loved the kids’ club, spending most of their time between there and the pool. It’s the place to see and be seen in Mallorca.
Fora Perks:
$90 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenities, breakfast daily & an upgrade whenever possible.
San Sebastián: AKELARRE
Image courtesy of AKELARRE
AKELARRE was originally a restaurant. It opened in 1970; five years later, renowned chef Pedro Subijana came onboard. Today, the restaurant has a coveted three Michelin Stars. AKELARRE has been dedicated to excellence and rigor from the start, so an accommodation option to accompany the culinary destination was a no-brainer.
The modern, sleekly designed hotel overlooks the Bay of Biscay. Interiors incorporate natural materials and a stylishly minimalist aesthetic inspired by their surroundings: wood, stone, clean lines, keen restraint.
AKELARRE is a short drive away from downtown San Sebastián, where additional foodie delights await. (The city has one of the world’s highest per-capita concentrations of Michelin Star.)
Also allow time to relax on the region’s beautiful beaches, as well as in the hotel’s adults-only spa.
Fora Perks:
VIP welcome & breakfast daily.
Madrid: Rosewood Villa Magna
Image courtesy of Rosewood Villa Magna
The Spaniards know their way around art, and this is especially evident at Rosewood Villa Magna, on Madrid’s famed Paseo de la Castellana. The hotel displays over 380 pieces, and the collection is regularly updated. (It’s no wonder Rosewood Villa Magna is one of Fora's top hotels booked in Madrid.)
Upon entering, guests are greeted by a custom, sprawling 3D tableau inspired by the city and the Spanish tailoring of Balenciaga to Oteyza. Artistic surprises can be found throughout the hotel, from the hallways to the rooms themselves.
It’s the perfect place to stay location-wise; the hotel is within walking distance of the trendy Serrano shopping district, the Golden Triangle of Art and numerous bustling bars and restaurants.
The hotel is effortlessly elegant, with a vibrant, contemporary aesthetic and warm residential feel, courtesy of leafy terraces and gardens.
Fora Perks:
$120 food / beverage or spa credit, a welcome amenity, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
One-Key hotels
Spain’s 80 one-Key hotels are character-driven, welcoming and endearing. All are in a category of their own when compared to other properties with a similar price point.
URSO Hotel & Spa Madrid
Image courtesy of URSO Hotel & Spa
This hip boutique hotel, among Fora’s 10 most-booked hotels in Spain, is dripping with charm. An airy, casual but nonetheless refined aesthetic creates a serene atmosphere: elegant furniture and patterned wallpaper, a modern glass staircase leading to a dining area bedecked with white-tablecloth seating. The balance is perfect.
Don’t miss the spa, where the sleek wooden Water Room houses an even sleeker pool, plus a eucalyptus-scented hammam. Also don’t miss the hotel’s environs. URSO straddles some of Madrid’s liveliest neighborhoods: the youthful Chamberí and the LGBTQ-friendly Chueca.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit, a complimentary Spanish tapa and glass of wine, breakfast daily, an upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Santiago de Compostela: A Quinta da Auga Hotel & Spa
Image courtesy of A Quinta da Auga Hotel & Spa
An 18th-century paper mill is the setting for this five-star boutique hotel. It’s the perfect, well-deserved reward after trekking the Camino de Santiago. Expect patterned wallpaper, exposed stone walls, colorful headboards and an overall moody, rustic-chic aesthetic.
The food is not to be missed. The hotel’s Filigrana Restaurant serves traditional, carefully sourced Galician cuisine in elegant environs. Also a must is the spa, where guests can take advantage of a saline flotarium, hydrotherapy circuit and personalized treatments.
Fora Perks:
A welcome amenity, breakfast daily, an upgrade & late check-out whenever possible.
Asturias: CoolRooms Palacio de Luces
Image courtesy of CoolRooms Palacio de Luces
Palacio de Luces feels like a privileged secret. And in many ways, it is. The hotel, a restored 16th-century palace amid sprawling gardens, is a short walk from the charming fishing village of Lastres.
There are 44 spacious rooms, each with a soothing, tranquil aesthetic and ample natural light. Mint-colored walls, velvet upholstered furniture and pale wooden floors only add to the pervasive serenity. Holistic wellbeing is a theme here, and extends both to the spa and restaurants.
Treat your body to contrast showers, a sauna session and a rejuvenating spa treatment incorporating high-end natural products. Palacio de Luces’ restaurants serve organic, locally sourced Asturian cuisine, some of which with a masterful Asian flair. Try Tella for an exquisite, well-sourced culinary experience, and GastroBar La Palmera for a comforting meal highlighting the region’s bounty.
Fora Perks:
Early check-in & late check-out whenever possible.
Your Insider’s Guide to Bariloche: Summer Skiing at South America’s Biggest Ski Resort
If you are a skier from the Northern Hemisphere dreaming of summer slopes, look no further than majestic Argentine Patagonia!
Having spent two years in this enchanting corner of Patagonia, I can confidently say it's one of the most stunning ski destinations you'll ever encounter!
If you are a skier from the Northern Hemisphere dreaming of summer slopes, look no further than majestic Argentine Patagonia, with its Cerro Catedral Ski Resort. Situated in the picturesque town of Bariloche, Cerro Catedral is the largest ski resort in South America. It offers 3,000 acres of varied terrain with epic views of the snow-capped Andes, pristine glacial lakes and the untamed Patagonian wilderness.
To complete your Patagonian adventure, consider a stay at the iconic Llao Llao Hotel. This historic gem has welcomed notable guests such as former US President Barack Obama, actors Robert Duvall and Tommy Lee Jones and filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola.
Whether you’re carving down the slopes, indulging in a hearty steak or soaking in the breathtaking views, Bariloche offers an amazing experience for winter travelers!
Unlock perks by contacting Jane to book your trip
Things to do in Bariloche
Skiing is the top winter activity in Bariloche due to its diverse terrain and stunning natural beauty. It features the largest ski resort in South America with extensive slopes and panoramic views. The combination of challenging runs, breathtaking landscapes and high-quality facilities make it a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The best ski conditions are usually from July to September.
Terrain and Runs: Cerro Catedral offers a diverse range of terrain with over 3,000 acres of skiing. Including 35% intermediate and 48% advanced and expert trails. Notable runs like La Catedral and Tres Picos provide exhilarating experiences with spectacular views of the Andes.
Lift System: Cerro Catedral has an extensive system with 39 lifts. This includes high-speed chairs, gondolas and surface lifts, ensuring efficient access to all areas of the mountain. The modern infrastructure minimizes wait times and provides seamless transport across the diverse terrain, enhancing your skiing experience.
Snow Conditions: Cerro Catedral enjoys an impressive average snow depth of around 6 to 12 feet throughout the winter season. The snow is typically light and powdery, thanks to the region's dry climate. It creates excellent skiing conditions and allows for a variety of snow sports.
Backcountry Skiing: Cerro Catedral offers exceptional backcountry skiing opportunities. The surrounding Patagonian wilderness features untracked powder, challenging terrain and breathtaking vistas, making it a paradise for experienced skiers. Guided tours are available to ensure safety and provide insights into the best routes and conditions.
Access and Transportation: Cerro Catedral is easily accessible from Bariloche, with a 30-minute drive connecting the town to the resort. Shuttle services and car rentals are readily available for a convenient commute to the slopes. Car rental is a good idea for most travelers, as it allows you easy access to the entire Bariloche area.
Facilities and Services: Cerro Catedral provides comprehensive services, including equipment rentals, ski schools with professional instructors and guided tours for all skill levels. At the base of the mountain, you'll find a range of amenities, including cozy lodges, charming cafes and convenient shops to enhance your skiing experience.
Après-Ski: After a day on the slopes, the village at the base of Cerro Catedral comes alive with après-ski options. Enjoy a range of activities from relaxing in upscale bars and restaurants to unwinding in hot tubs and spa facilities, while soaking in the stunning mountain views and socializing with fellow skiers.
Places to eat & drink in Bariloche, Argentina
Steak restaurants:
Tony’s Restaurante: This is my family’s absolute favorite place for a succulent steak in Bariloche! The meat quality is exceptional, and is expertly cooked over an open grill to deliver rich, smoky flavors and tender texture. The restaurant’s casual ambiance, attentive service and reputation for consistently delivering top-notch steaks make it a standout choice for steak lovers in Bariloche. Tony will probably come out and chat with you!
El Boliche de Alberto: Another phenomenal place for steak in Bariloche, El Boliche. Also known for using high-quality cuts of meat, excellent preparation and authentic Argentine flavors. It has a casual, rustic vibe and the emphasis is on delivering traditional Argentine barbecue in an unpretentious setting.
Breweries:
Patagonia Brewery: Patagonia Brewery is a wonderful place for visitors due to its exceptional craft beers and stunning setting. This is where locals go when they want to enjoy beer and food with a view! It combination of delicious, locally brewed beers, good food and jaw-dropping vistas is hard to beat. Patagonia Brewery’s standout beer is Patagonia Amber Lager, which is known for its smooth flavor, rich amber color and caramel notes. Reservations are highly recommended to ensure a spot, and can be easily made online through their official website. If you’re going for dinner, make sure you get there early enough to enjoy the view!
Cervecería Gilbert: If you enjoy craft beer, Cervecería Gilbert in Bariloche is another good option. They offer a range of innovative brews, and it’s a perfect place to relax after a day of skiing. Their food menu features delicious options like gourmet burgers, flavorful pizzas and tasty tapas that pair perfectly with their beers. It’s a great spot to hang out with friends and savor excellent beer and satisfying food. Making a reservation is a good idea, but you can often get a table without one.
Cervecería Manush: For families with children, Manush is a really nice option. It’s super family-friendly with a great outdoor play area where the little ones can run around while you keep an eye on them from the nearby tables. With its great location, tasty food and fun setup, it's perfect for families looking to relax and enjoy a good time together. And the best part? Locals just bundle up and go no matter the season — you can, too! Making a reservation in advance can be a good idea, but you can often show up without one and still get a table.
Fine dining:
Restaurant Llao Llao: Located in the iconic Llao Llao Hotel, it provides a refined dining experience amid the Patagonian landscape. The menu features local specialties, including tender lamb, beef and trout, alongside a selection of international dishes. Emphasizing seasonal ingredients, the restaurant crafts dishes that highlight fresh, regional produce. Guests can also enjoy a variety of elegant desserts and a curated wine list of local and international selections. With its luxurious setting and gourmet offerings, Restaurant Llao Llao is perfect for a memorable and sophisticated meal. Reservations are recommended.
Mimi’s Restaurante: Mimi’s is a particularly delightful choice for a romantic date in Bariloche, thanks to its cozy, elegant atmosphere. The restaurant offers a refined menu with a range of delicious Argentine dishes and fine wines, creating a perfect setting for an intimate evening. Reservations are advised. Very recommended for a special night out!
El Regional: Known for its elegant ambiance and gourmet Argentine cuisine. El Regional offers a refined dining experience with tasty local specialties.
La Costa del Pueblo: This restaurant combines an elegant atmosphere with high-quality, beautifully presented dishes. It’s a great spot for a special occasion, offering everything from fine steaks to seafood.
Kandahar: For non-Argentine fine dining in Bariloche, Kandahar stands out. It offers a sophisticated menu that blends international cuisine with local ingredients, featuring dishes that cater to diverse tastes. The restaurant’s upscale setting and inventive approach to dining make it an excellent choice for those looking for a refined dining experience that goes beyond traditional Argentine fare.
Brunch:
Quiven: Quiven is a fabulous little restaurant in Bariloche overlooking the Nahuel Huapi Lake. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. It has a chic and relaxed atmosphere, and stands out with its set brunch offering. It includes a selection of gourmet dishes complemented by a glass of champagne. This luxurious brunch experience is perfect for a special outing, allowing you to savor high-quality food while enjoying the stunning natural scenery. Super recommended!
Making Museum Visits Fun for Kids
You want to visit art museums when you travel, but…what about the kids? Here are some creative strategies to help you navigate these outings with ease.
Science and natural history museums are almost always fun for kids. But what about fine art museums?
Are we really going to be in London and not go to the Tate? To Madrid and not visit the Prado? Well, maybe. But if we do want to go, we should be able take our kids and still have fun.
You may be tempted to try to recreate your adults-only style art museum visit with your kids in tow. Unless your kids are particularly precocious, this approach is not likely to work.
Instead, play into the universal strength of kids of all ages...IMAGINATION!
Here are a few approaches you can use:
With Portraits:
Tell them to find the weirdest, most mysterious, interesting painting in each room.
Ask them to imagine the story behind it. Major kudos for creativity.
If you have multiple kids, you can award points for things like ‘strangest backstory’ or ‘funniest explanation’. Then, let them redeem the points at the gift shop on your way out of the museum. Our prizes tend to be pretty tiny, but that hasn’t seemed to matter at all.
With Statues:
Start by making up your own story...like, what if the statues were once alive, but an angry ogre/wizard/witch/elf turned them all into stone.
Let them build on the story:
Why was the ogre angry?
What were the statues doing right before they were turned to stone?
What might make them come back to life? Wait…did that one just move?
To kick it up a notch, when you get back to your hotel help them write out the story they came up with. Then send it (or pictures of it) to your family and friends. Read them all the responses their story gets!
With Abstract Art:
If you’re planning to go to a specific exhibit, look online with your kids to see what abstract pieces they have.
Have the kids pick out a few of their favorites so they can look for them when you get to the museum.
Bring sketchpads and colored pencils to the museum.
Look for the pieces your kids picked out online and find a spot nearby where they can sit.
Ask them to either draw what they see hiding in the abstract art or create their own version. Meanwhile, you can stroll around the room and take in a little of the exhibit yourself.
Tap into your own imagination to come up with other approaches to engage your kids. By playing into their creative strengths, the whole family can enjoy cultural experiences together. It also allows ALL of you to see art in a completely new and imaginative way.
And lastly, keep it short. An hour is perfect. More than ninety minutes and you may be pushing your luck!
The Galápagos Effect: Nurturing Growth and Learning in Young Explorers
Travel can have significant impacts on a person. Especially, a little person! Wolf has been to several foreign countries since he was eight months old. We’ve noticed something about these trips…
Iceland, Belize, Italy, Corsica, England, Argentina, the Galapagos. We’ve traveled to all these places with Wolf in his first six years. With each trip, Jane and I observed significant advancements in Wolf’s development. It almost seemed like he was saving up his leaps in speaking, agility, and maturity for when we were in different time zones.
I’ll be the first to admit there is probably A LOT of confirmation bias in this non-scientific conclusion. But we’re convinced the stimulation his growing brain receives during travel has significant and long-lasting effects. (Aside: We have another example of personal growth from travel regarding my son Justin when he was 18 and traveled with us to Belize. You will have to wait for another post for that story.)
Our recent trip to the Galapagos Islands with Quasar Expeditions resulted in more examples of developmental leaps. The most obvious was his sociability. To give a little context, Wolf has always been an outgoing kid. From an early age, he’s been able to express himself well verbally. And maybe because of that, he’s also always been at ease around adults. Jane and I encourage this in several ways. For example, Wolf has ordered his own meals at restaurants since he was three and gives flight attendants his own passport and tickets when we fly.
When it came to our Galapagos cruise, he took his sociability to an entirely new level. The main reason we picked our boat, The Evolution, was because it was small and had a great ratio of guides to guests. In it, we could go to places the big boats couldn’t access. And we never had to worry about being shuffled around in a massive group. A surprise benefit was that with just 25 or so guests on board, Wolf made friends with practically everyone on the boat.
Whether on board or during outings, we often found him hanging out chatting with one of our fellow passengers or guides. He was incredibly engaging and the nature guides basically adopted him on every excursion. We had two guides for each island exploration. For at least half of each, one of the guides would explore alone with Wolf. Which leads us to the next development area…
Wolf is now a talented and avid photographer! During Wolf’s private hikes, the guides gave him loads of tips on taking pictures and, in particular, nature and wildlife photography. Like, how to lie down on his stomach when taking pictures of the iguanas. It steadied the camera and made the iguanas look like Godzilla.
Before the trip, about one in twenty of his pictures were salvageable. Now, he takes pictures and video with most turning out quite well. It’s heartwarming to see him excitedly grab his camera and run to take a picture. When he does, he says, “if I don’t take this picture, no one will ever see this again.” All the pictures at the bottom of this post were taken by Wolf.
But perhaps the most significant area of Wolf’s development in this short eight-day cruise was his independence. During our week in the Galapagos, he was so adventurous and curious. He was up for anything. It seems that he was in his true element in the nature setting where no hike was too difficult or too long. He tried snorkeling for the first time. And even with a life ring to float in, it is a brave act for a five-year-old beginner-swimmer with hammerheads patrolling beneath him. I’ll never forget the sight of him furiously kicking away, determined to keep pace with a rapidly swimming penguin.
He has come away from our Galapagos trip with the confidence to try new things, ask interesting (and sometimes silly) questions, and fearlessly explore his world. As an extension of this, he‘s gotten into experimenting. Now, everything is an experiment, or at least involves the “I’m doing an experiment” excuse to make a big mess. We love how this further develops his curiosity and capability.
Almost three months later, Wolf is still talking about the Galapagos. Yesterday, he asked Jane what kind of animal she would want to be. After she responded with “falcon”, he told her that he’d like to be a blue-footed booby and then started acting out the famous blue-footed booby mating dance.
Traveling overseas with kids can be challenging. But it is an investment in ourselves and our kids. The Galapagos trip has already paid off for all of us.
Navigating Uncertainty: How Experience Abroad Prepares You for Global Crises
Traveling and living abroad is full of experiences, some more challenging than others. But those prepare us to handle whatever comes our way..
We’re all navigating through a lot of ambiguity lately because of this Coronavirus pandemic.
I think people who’ve spent a lot of time abroad have an advantage in this gray space, as they’re used to navigating through unfamiliar situations. They know they don’t (and won’t) understand everything going on around them, and learn to adapt and manage well enough with incomplete information.
I see this as an important life skill and one we’re intentionally cultivating with our five-year old son, Wolf. Considering that we just moved to Argentina a few months ago, I expect we’ll all have plenty of opportunity.
Meanwhile, it’s got me thinking about some of my own weird and challenging experiences abroad. They’ve all contributed to my fairly anxiety-free response to the virus and lockdown we’re currently under…
Japan, 2001
I went to Tokyo to teach English for a year. I lived in shared housing with young Japanese workers and commuted into work every day.
One day when the subway was particularly packed, I saw an old lady standing and offered her my seat. She shook her head no. Confused, I offered again, half-standing and pointing at the seat I’d just vacated.
Again, she shook her head and said something back to me in Japanese. I shrugged and sat back down, only to have her glare at me. A minute or two later, a young Japanese guy offered her his seat and she took it.
When I went back to the house I asked one of my Japanese friends what I’d done wrong. She explained that traditionally, older Japanese expect to be offered something THREE times. They say no the first two times, and then (faux-grudgingly) accept when you insist the third time.
Obviously not knowing this, I’d stopped trying a smidge too soon.
India, 2004
I spent a year in southern India teaching “accent reduction” and North American customer service at a call center. The guest house I lived at had a maid who liked me, even though she didn’t speak a word of English beyond “hello”. One day, she invited me to come to her home for a Saturday afternoon lunch.
I accepted, not knowing she lived a two-hour bus ride across the city. Someone told me that Coca Cola would be appreciated as a treat, so I brought a 2-liter bottle and some baked treats as a small gift for her family.
During the long bus ride, not able to speak to my companion, I gradually watched as the neighborhoods became increasingly decrepit. Eventually, we got off the bus and walked into the alley where she lived. She waved and shouted at all her neighbors as we paraded down the street together - our height difference alone making us an odd-looking pair, with her around 4’, and me close to 5’10.
When we reached her house, the entire family was waiting at the door. The table was set up…for one. She showed off the soda and treats I’d brought and then poured me a now-hot glass of Coke. It hadn’t occurred to me that they wouldn’t have ice.
Her family formed a standing circle around me as she HAND FED me the rice and veggies they had made. Yes, literally. She put the food from her hands directly into my mouth, and it was as awkward as it sounds.
Nobody else ate or drank anything, and when she finished feeding me she gave me one of the baked treats I’d brought for dessert. After that, she escorted me two hours across the city back to my house.
It was a long day’s lunch, and a moving insight into what it can be like to be an honored guest in an Indian home. It was humbling to realize she had traveled eight hours by bus on her day off to receive me as a guest in her home.
Oman, 2005
I lived and worked in Dubai for five years as a management trainer at an aluminum smelter.
While there, I took a weekend trip to Oman, which is much more conservative than Dubai. I hadn’t been in the region long at this point. To demonstrate cultural respect I thought I should wear an abaya (the long, loose black robe) and cover my hair.
At Carrefour, which is kind of like a French Walmart, I picked out an inexpensive abaya I thought had a little flair. It was black, and embroidered with orange sequins arranged in large circular patterns. I bought it, and didn’t even think about checking the size. It looked as one-size-fits-all as anything could possible be.
Well, it wasn’t. The abaya wasn’t designed for someone as tall as me, and stopped five or six inches above my ankles. I decided to wear it anyway, and moved on to figuring out how to tie the head scarf. I had no idea, and since it kept falling back when I walked I ended up tying it in a knot under my chin.
I actually left the house thinking people might mistake me for a local. Instead, the Omanis I passed that day literally pointed, stared, and even giggled at me. I had no idea why, still convinced I looked exactly like the Omani women I saw around me.
Much later on, I told some female Emirati colleagues about the experience. They explained what had gone wrong, and that by the way they wouldn’t have been caught dead in the abaya I picked out. (They wouldn’t drive out to lunch in my Hyundai either, but that’s a different story!)
Argentina, Present Day
That brings me back to living in Argentina during the Coronavirus outbreak. It’s early days for us here and at the moment we’re not interacting with anyone because we’re all locked down.
But experiencing awkward moments is inevitable coming into any new culture and I’m sure we’ll have our share. We won’t let that stop us, though. We’ll accept the social invitations that come our way, offer our own, and beg forgiveness if we inadvertently show up for a party an hour before everyone else.
My hope is that with these early experiences, uncomfortable as they can be, Wolf will grow into an adult both capable and comfortable maneuvering through undefined situations. I’m sure these traits will serve him well whatever path he ends up taking in his life, as they’ve served me.
Meanwhile, we’ll deal with this pandemic as we usually do in the face of something ambiguous and unfamiliar. We’ll monitor events, assess our situation as it evolves, and then make our best decisions with the information we have.
And maybe most importantly, we’ll work under the assumption that with a little creativity and resourcefulness we can handle whatever comes our way.
Discovering Buenos Aires: 10 Things That Caught Our Eye
On our way from Quito to Bariloche, we spent a week in beautiful Buenos Aires. As newly arrived gringos, we were struck by several things different from the United States.
On our way from Quito to Bariloche, we spent a week in beautiful Buenos Aires. As newly arrived gringos, we were struck by several things different from the United States…
1. Gelato Shops on Every Corner: Argentina has a seriously delicious gelato scene going on. Apparently, a good chunk of Argentinian people are of Italian origin, and very sensibly they brought their gelato with them. It’s not only excellent, it is everywhere! You can’t go two blocks here without bumping into a shop. We approve.
2. Argentinians Like Artisanal Beer: Along with gelato, “artisanal” small-batch beer is a big deal here. The beer is good (or so Matt tells me) and these cervezarias are very family-friendly. Even better, every one we’ve been to has allowed us to bring our dog!
3. Yerba Mate is Really a Thing: So, we knew before coming here that Yerba Mate was a popular drink in Argentina. But “popular” does not even begin to describe it. People drink Yerba Mate literally everywhere and seemingly at all times. Even our Cross-Fit instructor keeps his mate cup filled.
4. One Kiss Culture: Argentinians give one air smooch to say hello, with everyone aiming left. This cultural norm did not seem to be affected even a little bit by fears of COVID-19 transmission until the lock down took effect.
5. Friendliness: Before coming to Argentina, I had heard from other Latin American friends that Argentinians were “arrogant”. We have not encountered that even a little smidge! The ones we have met, including waiters and people in shops, have been overwhelmingly friendly and welcoming.
6. Kids Here are Waaay Better at Soccer: First of all, they play soccer – I mean fútbol – constantly. At the park, young guys stand in circles juggling soccer balls between them. Kids around Wolf’s age – which is only FIVE – show up at the park ready to play with cleats and pads. And those same kids are at the park every single day, so no wonder they’re so good.
7. Nobody Stops at Stop Signs: If people don’t see someone coming from the right-hand side, they just blow through stop signs without even slowing down. It’s a little nerve-wracking.
8. Stray Dogs Everywhere: There are a surprising number of stray dogs roaming the streets of Argentina. And yet, none of them seem particularly mean or aggressive. The most they’ll do is bark at your car as you roll by. They seem to be even more prevalent outside of the city where many presumably have an owner that lets them roam.
9. Good Looking People in BA: Argentinians come from a variety of ethnic backgrounds, many of them European. The resulting mix is very attractive!
10. Getting Money is Hard: So, it costs ten bucks in ATM fees to get cash out. Ten! And even when we’re willing to spring for the ATM fee, it can be hard to find ATMs that actually have money in them. Meanwhile, a few places don’t even accept credit cards – especially international ones like ours. On the other hand, prices overall are still a lot lower than we’re used to.
The Magic in the Moments
While roving all over the northwest, Jane takes a moment to appreciate, well, moments. Whether it’s an amazing beach, surprises from nature, or just hanging out, it is important to recognize how important and precious these moments are.
A few days ago, we went for a bike ride out to the lake Dease Lake, BC, is named after. While we were biking, two large ravens swooped down close to us.
Inspired, Matt recited Edgar Allan Poe’s poem The Raven in its entirety. He memorized it a few years ago for our annual “Poe Party”. It was a gothic-themed fall party where we would lay lots of poetry books around, and then eat, drink – and read poetry! Bonus applause for any Poe recitations.
It was wonderful to listen to him while coasting through the otherwise quiet and pristine Canadian wilderness. That got me thinking about a few of the other amazing moments we’ve had so far on this trip:
· Flying kites & seeing a fawn. This was the very first stop of our trip. We visited our close friend Bridgett and her family at their historic farm in the middle of Kansas. It was a beautiful, breezy summer day and we decided to fly kites in an open field. We all loved it, but Wolf had never flown a kite before and did not stop smiling the entire time. As we walked back after flying kites, we found a very young fawn nestled in the grass.
· Singing “American Music” while buffalo spotting. While driving, we listen to a lot of podcasts and stories. But sometimes, we just play music. I was exploring Matt’s music library and found that he had the song “American Music” by the Violent Femmes, which I’d always liked. I put it on and started singing along. Wolf picked up on the chorus, and joined in: “Do you like American music? I like American music…” And then Matt. We were at top volume when we saw our first buffalo of the trip.
· Wolf finding the universal language of bugs at Crater Lake. Wolf likes bugs and so do a lot of other kids. At Crater Lake, he saw two Chinese children inspecting a colorful bug on the ground. He immediately joined them, and they all started talking excitedly in their own languages while examining this bug. There was no barrier at all.
· Matt’s evening banjo practice. Matt requested a banjo for Christmas last year and has started teaching himself how to play on this trip. He practices almost every night and is catching on quickly. He works a lot on an old bluegrass song with the lines, “whistle up your dog, shoulder up your gun, off to the woods to catch a groundhog.” I often find myself humming along.
· Watching Wolf and Ruby exploring Cannon Beach. We had an impromptu visit at Cannon Beach, Oregon with our good friend Stephanie and her two daughters, Cora and Ruby. Wolf adores Stephanie’s girls, and particularly Ruby who is closest in age. The two of them spent hours combing the beach together, holding hands while deep in discussion.
· Wolf playing his first chord on the ukulele. I walked into the Buffalo, and Matt and Wolf were sitting together on the bed. As soon as I walked in the door, Wolf shouted that he had something to show me. He then proudly played and sang “Three Blind Mice” to me on his rainbow ukulele. Every time he was supposed to pause, he shouted “REST!”. It was adorable.
· Kayaking on the Yukon River. We have been waiting in Dease Lake, BC for our truck parts to arrive. Since the post office was closed Monday for British Columbia Day, we rented a car and drove to Whitehorse for a long weekend. We kayaked sixteen miles through the pristine Yukon River, where we saw a coyote and at least twenty bald eagles. Wolf chatted cheerfully with everyone who floated past us, asking if they were having “a good paddle” and what animals they had seen.
When this trip eventually ends it will be this incredible mix of moments I’ll remember, all accompanied in my mind by the gentle picking of Matt’s banjo.
Throwing Away My Fitbit: Rediscovering a Healthier, More Balanced Life
After being in our new lifestyle for a few months, Jane finds some insight into how she can best have a healthy and active life.
I’ve always liked being active.
In our pre-truck life, I lifted weights at the gym a couple times a week, took walking breaks sometimes at work, and even fit in an occasional lunchtime exercise class.
But I also worked forty hours a week in an office. And like most people in offices, I often sat at my desk for several hours at a time. I recently started feeling the impact of all this sitting on my body, through stiffness and random stabbing pains in my hip flexor.
I chalked it up to being 44 and decided to add more yoga into my routine. I bought a bundle of yoga classes but didn’t really think through when I was actually going to get to the classes. Unwilling to wake up an hour earlier to exercise, the only time I really had available was in the late afternoons and evenings.
The challenge was that Wolf was already in his preschool aftercare until 5:30 pm. We were usually home by 6 pm, which left just a few hours to spend together until his bedtime. Did I really want to turn right around and go to a yoga class? It turned out I didn’t. My yoga membership lapsed, and I suffered through the occasional sharp pains in my hip flexors.
When our big trip started, I knew our overall activity level and health would probably improve. We planned to sleep until our bodies were ready to wake up, spend the time to cook healthy food every day, and to regularly play outdoors – hiking, biking, and whatever else looked fun.
Still, I decided to set a few daily targets for myself – because as most people in corporate America have heard: “what gets measured gets managed”. So, every day I planned to walk at least 10,000 steps, do 3 minutes of planks, 10 push-ups, and at least 15 minutes of yoga.
It was a good plan, except that it didn’t work at all for me.
First, there was my plan for daily yoga. I did it a few times, but after just a few weeks on the road I didn’t feel like I needed it as much. Even with all our driving, I didn't feel stiff the way I did after sitting at my desk all day. It turned out that dramatically increasing our physical activity was loosening up my whole body.
Then there was my goal of 10,000 steps a day. It was hard to know if I ever hit my target because the smart watch I bought to count steps never worked right. The step count randomly stopped tracking for periods of time, wildly throwing off my overall count. For a while I still wore it and checked continuously to see how it thought I was tracking toward my 10,000-step goal. I’d make mental adjustments for the steps I thought it didn’t count.
And did my exact number of steps even matter? I looked it up, and apparently the 10,000 steps was a marketing ploy by a Japanese company from the 1960s. There’s no medical rationale for 10,000 as a daily step goal. It’s just a nice round number.
And so, eventually I put away my yoga mat and slid the semi-broken smart watch into a drawer.
Unwinding from years of full-time work is a process, but I think I’m getting there. This morning, I took Casey for a walk while Matt and Wolf were still sleeping. We walked out to the end of the dock by the mountain lake where our truck is parked. Casey napped in the warm morning sun while I did a little yoga.
The four of us are doing a hike to the small but mighty Mouse Mountain this afternoon. After that, Matt and Wolf will probably build a campfire, we’ll grill some fish, and the grownups will enjoy a glass of wine. We’ll probably all fall straight into a deep sleep.
Without measuring anything, I’m pretty sure it’s going to be a great and healthy day.