Valle de Guadalupe is a region in Baja California Norte, Mexico, known for its vast, sprawling vineyards, rustic charm, and serene beauty that transports you to another world. And there, nestled under the shelter of a large, ancient oak tree, is Animalón — a Michelin-starred gem that effortlessly blends luxury with the natural beauty of its surroundings.

What makes Animalón stand out — beyond the oak tree, beyond the setting — is the passion that flows from its kitchen. There’s a clear understanding here that dining is not just about the food; it’s about telling a story. And that story is steeped in the flavors of Baja California, in the freshness of the local produce, and the deep-rooted connections between the chefs, the land, and the people.

Nestled amidst the scenic vineyards and charming streets of Healdsburg, California, Troubadour Bread stands as a beacon for food enthusiasts seeking artisanal provisions. During my recent trip to this charming bakery, I was impressed by their unique selection of sandwiches, and I was truly amazed by the exceptional quality of the bread on which they were prepared. One casual lunch at Troubadour left me feeling completely inspired by the culinary scene of Sonoma County and I cannot wait to return.

Nestled within the enchanting landscapes of Napa Valley, the newly revitalized Frank Family Vineyards beckons wine enthusiasts seeking a refined and stylish setting to savor their favorite vintages. Among the array of delightful tasting experiences awaiting guests, the Miller House stands as a true gem.

Arcosanti, the concrete urban laboratory located at Cordes Junction, is an easy one hour drive north of Phoenix. Hop on HWY 17 and before too long you will be enveloped by pure Arizona desert. Built in the 1970s by Italian architect Paolo Soleri, this radial community began as a prototype arcology–a compact urban form intended to be self-sufficient and self-contained. The term arcology, coined by Soleri, is a portmanteau of architecture and ecology, now most often realized in sci-fi narratives. Post-doctorate, Soleri spent 18 months as a student at Taliesin West in fellowship with Frank Lloyd Wright. Having toured both Taliesin West and Arcosanti myself, it's easy to draw aesthetic similarities, but that's where it stops, as in my research I learned that the men held conflicting architectural philosophies.  While on my impressive one-hour tour at Arcosanti I was informed that Soleri left Taliesin West as he continually found himself in opposition to Wright.