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NYC Steam Cleaning is, by far, the top furniture cleaning service in the greater New York area. A true full-service cleaning operation, NYC Steam Cleaning prides itself in offering 24/7 full-service cleaning services for everything from furniture, delicate rugs, wood floors, grout, mold removal and more. The company itself has been around for years and services all five New York City boroughs as well as the tri-state area. Their technicians have been certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and arrive to their locations fully equipped with the knowledge and experience to get the job done. I was a recent client of NYC Steam Cleaning and they tackled a collection of white Bouclé furniture in a living room area of a loft in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan. We called on them to help give the furniture a refresh, and to help prepare it for the Winter months ahead when its use would be far greater and more wear and tear might be possible. After hosting several events in the space, the furniture needed a deep clean to rid it of some discoloration, dust and dye absorbed from people’s clothing. Setting-up the appointment for cleaning was a true breeze. NYC Steam Cleaning had everything ready to go the same week of appointment request. Their online site is very informative and their booking staff efficient. Before the appointment we received text message alerts, reminders and more to help keep everything on track. When the technicians arrived, they were friendly, kind, explained the process and made sure to walk us through what we could expect post cleaning. They brought in their equipment right away, which included booties to protect the floor from their shoes. Immediately, they began working to bring some life back to the furniture in focus. Over the course of an hour, the NYC Steam Cleaning technicians meticulously steam cleaned two sofas, matching pillow, two side chairs and a bed. Through the cleaning process, they invited us to watch as we could visually see the dirt and dust being lifted away from the furniture. It was such a pleasant surprise and most gratifying to see all of that unwanted matter leave fabric. They were careful with the fabric itself and tested it to be sure of its durability. After the cleaning was completed, the technicians from NYC Steam Cleaning applied scotch guard to help protect the fabric from future stains, spills and more – making us feel better about having that extra layer of protection for such expensive furniture items. The technicians emptied their water buckets in a designated sink we offered them and were on their way. The entire process took less than an hour and, just like, we had new furniture to look at. What a joy. The entire experience was kind and pleasant and, most importantly, effective. For anyone seeking specialized furniture cleaning, rug cleaning, floor restoration and more – NYC Steam Cleaning is unparalleled.

The Brando, a fabled, mysterious and ultra-luxury private island paradise sits quietly in the South Pacific, beckoning to any traveler who is interested in seclusion, service and some of the most incredible oceanic experiences the planet has to offer. Rooted deeply in conservation and taking every step with the environment in mind, The Brando is somewhat of a mystery to anyone who has never experienced it first-hand. Of course you can visit the website, read the literature or see the reviews plastered across glossy travel magazines; but to experience it is another thing. It is an opportunity to integrate yourself, for the length of you stay, into a world away where personalized service is paramount and the treasures of the environment are lifted to the forefront of vision. I was a recent guest on the island and I have to say, without fail, that the experience was impactful and memorable – in many ways. Arriving to The Brando is not particularly easy. But, what treasure is easy to find? Whether you’re traveling from East or West, it’s necessary to make a pit stop in Tahiti, before catching your private flight on Air Tetiaroa to The Brando. Getting to Tahiti can be done mainly from California and Seattle, Washington on airlines like Air Tahiti Nui, Air France, French Bee, United Airlines and more. Once on the ground, the staff from The Brando will meet you and you will be escorted to the private terminal area and elegant waiting lounge where Air Tetiaroa operates flights to The Brando. There is no other way to reach the island, not by boat or any other means. It is incredibly protected and naturally protected by a large coral reef making it a favorite hangout of celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Britney Spears and others. Waiting in the lounge for your charter to The Brando is quiet, seamless and simple as you sip a beverage and peer out over the tall palms hanging over the runway. At the time of boarding, the pilot will come and introduce himself to you. He will explain the flight route and weather and flight duration, which is roughly 45 minutes. I boarded the plane, which feels more like a small private jet, and soon we were off. Upon approach to The Brando by air you can’t help but drop your mouth in awe of the majestic turquoise and deep blue waters that seem to melt together like a watercolor painting. The small waves breaking over the untouched coral reefs and the island flora and fauna coming into view the closer you get. When you first see it it’s like a fairy tale because all you can think is, “How does this place even exist”, which is the same thoughts that sparked its purchase by American actor Marlon Brando decades ago. He too, after filming a movie nearby, couldn’t help but be moved to call the paradise home as he had never seen anywhere as beautiful. I landed safely on the island and was met my the hotel manager and staff who quickly unloaded baggage. I was greeted by a traditional Polynesian dancer and musician singing and playing a welcome song. As I was handed a welcome drink and a flower lai rested upon my shoulders, I knew this was going to be a special two days in paradise. Before you arrive to The Brando all of your information is taken and formalities completed so that you really do not have to do any of that upon arrival. This is so refreshing because, after traveling all that way, people just want to start their vacation and relax. Immediately I was invited onto a golf cart and taken to my private beachfront villa. The Brando offers 35 one, two and three-bedroom villas as well as a “residence” that is like a compound on the property. Here you don’t have to worry about vying for beach space, privacy or alone time as this island, while you are there, is literally yours. The Brando is a sanctuary of sun, pristine beaches, coral reefs, luxury villas, fabulous dining venues and copious amounts of tropical cocktails. Typically, all meals and beverages are included and you can opt to choose a package that works for your trip needs and budget. As I pulled-up to my villa, I was delighted by the gorgeous architecture and the way it sat effortlessly on the sand amongst an array of tropical foliage. The one-bedroom villa is outfitted with a spacious living room, bar area, office area, huge bedroom, wardrobe/dressing area and bathroom. It comes complete with an outdoor shower and tub, as well as a terrace that melts right into the beach with a private small infinity pool and covered gazebo area for watching sunsets and relaxing. The room is technologically advanced with smart televisions, a phone system, music system and iPads for ordering food any time of day. It’s basically the epitome of a well-equipped home that, in all reality, you never want to leave. But, leaving now and then is a must. If you can pry yourself off your own private stretch of beach you will find that The Brando has a lot on offer. Around the gorgeous pathways shaded by lazy palms you will find bikes to ride around, tennis courts, pool area and the ability to throw on a snorkel and goggles and explore the atoll at your own pace. Swimming at the beautiful Mermaid Bay is a must. If you are interested, you can take part in the “Ultimate Tour” which will immerse you in all the history, culture, marine and bird life around the atoll. It’s a phenomenal way to really see everything and understand The Brando from a three-dimensional perspective. I loved simple walks around the paths as well as the tour I took part on to snorkel around the coral reefs. Everything you see here is untouched and natural – no fish feeding, no baiting…just nature at its finest. On-site you can even hear talks given by marine biologists and scientists who work on the atoll in various conservation projects. After days in the sun and water, you can really work-up and appetite. At The Brando, you can belly-up to Bob’s Bar – which is delightful. Bob was a personal friend of Marlon Brando and the bar is named in his honor. Here, bartenders will whip up the most delectable cocktails using fresh tropical ingredients that are from the atoll or other Polynesian islands. You can choose from lunch or dinner at Beachcomber Cafe which serves Polynesian and French-inspired cuisine, Les Mutinés which offers fine French and international food, and Nami Teppanyaki which focuses on an intimate Japanese experience with specialties from the land and sea. The food at all the restaurants is delicious. Guests can also simply order whatever they wish and dine in the comfort of their own villa, so the possibilities are plentiful. Aside from relaxing beachside at The Brando I recommend spending a few hours at the Varua Te Ora Polynesian spa. This spa is so beautiful and is tucked amongst a small wetland on the atoll. The unique pod-like treatment rooms are architecturally arresting and the treatments offered are thoughtful and indulgent. I was able to to enjoy a massage which, after hours and hours of travel, was much needed. The massage was done with Polynesian ingredients and in the most professional and effective way possible. I left that 60 minutes completely refreshed and with more mobility in my muscles, making swimming and exploring the coral reefs that much easier. My two days at The Brando were pure bliss. I have been fortunate to travel to some of the most exciting destinations and to some of the most special hotels in the world, all which have something interesting to offer. But The Brando is unique in not only their ethos but in their location, privacy and their dedicated efforts to take care of the land and place from which it operates. There is an innate respect there that is rare to find in the hospitality world, when the objective is usually just money driven. Here it is different and you feel that from the moment you set foot on the atoll. For anyone seeking the ultimate private island experience, you won’t be able to top The Brando.

Iberia Airlines , the Oneworld partner, is Spain’s flag carrier and has recently revamped their look and offerings to make them one of the best options when flying to Europe and beyond. Offering an extensive network between the United States, The Caribbean, Mexico, and Latin America through their hub in Madrid, the possibilities are endless on where you can fly with this multi-awarded carrier. I was a recent guest on a flight between New York and Madrid, connecting to Rome, Italy. I was flying their newly introduced Premium Economy cabin and was excited to try this new product. Iberia invested a great deal of time and money redesigning and renovating their fleet to offer more choices to passengers looking to fly in style. I was flying during a very busy time and knew my flight would likely be full, and it was. But, much to my surprise, Iberia made up for this with individualized service and a stellar product in-flight that left me impressed and ready to fly them again. My flight was around 9:00 pm and I was flying out of the British Airways terminal at JFK Airport. I was checked-in quickly and welcomed warmly by the airport staff. At the gate, I was welcomed again and met the lead gate agent before boarding. Iberia did a wonderful job of keeping things organized during the boarding process and everyone got on the plane easily for an on-time departure. I found my seat quickly in the bulkhead section of the Premium Economy cabin and was able to store my bags and settle-in for the flight. The Premium Economy cabin is separated from both the Economy and Business Class cabins. What’s lovely about this cabin is the separation, so you feel like you’re in your own little world – which is nice on an aircraft that transports several hundred people from point A to point B. I found the cabin to be elegantly designed with ergonomic seats that have the capability to recline to an impressive level. The new television and media screens are large and inviting with a wide range of entertainment offerings during your flight. As we took off I was offered a beverage and kicked back for the roughly seven hour flight. My cabin was serviced very well and efficiently on the flight. Iberia does a great job of projecting a friendly atmosphere and making customers feel at home. I ordered my meal which was served promptly and tried my best to eat it as quickly as possible so I could sleep as much as possible. The food was very good and Iberia offered a wide selection of Spanish wines to go with the meal. In no time, I was drifting away to sleep. As I awoke we were about 35 minutes from landing in Madrid. The flight attendant offered me an expedited breakfast and coffee, which I appreciated. Although the new Premium Economy is not a 180-degree lie-flat seat, Iberia does offer this in their beautiful business class cabin. The Premium Economy seat reclines enough with the footrest to provide a very comfortable position for rest and sleep. Landing in Madrid was a breeze and we were early, which was nice, so I could clear EU customs and connect to my flight to Rome. I loved my Iberia experience in Premium Economy and know that they make an excellent choice in carrier between North America and Europe.

Lagoon by Jean Georges is a culinary masterpiece located inside the beautiful St. Regis Hotel Bora Bora. Conceptualized by renowned French Chef Jean Georges Vongerichten, this restaurant essentially floats above the famous turquoise lagoon that Bora Bora has been immortalized for the world over. The dining destination is open not just to hotel guests, but to others who are staying on the island and who are seeking a true fine dining experience that marries French and Polynesian flavors to create some of the most memorable dishes on the island. I was a guest recently for dinner and found the restaurant to be incredibly beautiful, relaxed and on-point with their delivery of service and inventive food. I arrived to the restaurant from another hotel property and was collected by the St. Regis private boat. After a smooth ten-minute ride gliding across the lagoon, I pulled-up to a magical, candlelit open-air room with unobstructed sea views and diners sipping cocktails in the distance. I began the meal with a drink on the terrace overlooking the water and was able to enjoy the night sky, stars and light breeze as my table was prepared. As soon as it was ready, I was welcomed by the manager and led over the stunning glass bottom floor to my table. The glass bottom is interesting because you can see the sea life in real time as you dine. My meal was set to be five courses and I opted for a chef’s selection. The server was pleasant, from France, and made sure to ask for any food allergies prior to the beginning of dinner. Like an elegant dance, I was brought an amuse bouche paired with a glass of vintage champagne and followed by a delicious starter. Obviously, because of the location, the menu leads very seafood heavy. And no one is complaining. The starter, which was composed of sweet prawns with a delicate sauce was absolutely mouthwatering. Not only was it beautiful, but each bite burst with flavor. The room was busy, but elegant. Cocktails and wine were flowing. I peered around between each course and watched with contentment as my fellow diners savored each bite. Being that Bora Bora is a bucket list destination that people oftentimes wait a long time before being able to travel there, experiencing a restaurant like Lagoon makes it that much more special. My following courses were delivered effortlessly and included fresh tuna, the local ‘Uravena fish, mahi-mahi and bonito. The fish here is some of the best in the world and the team at Lagoon are experts at preparing it in the most elegant yet unpretentious way. My meal at Lagoon by Jean Georges did include beef, which was a nice addition to the lightness of the seafood. Each course was paired with mainly French wine and ranged from extraordinary whites to light reds that made sense for dishes that included land meat. I was in true heaven and the surrounding ambiance cannot be matched on Bora Bora. Every traveler to Bora Bora must visit Lagoon by Jean Georges. Whether you’re staying at The St. Regis or not it’s an experience that you really cannot get anywhere else in French Polynesia. The restaurant is truly a three-dimensional moment in time that addresses all your senses in smell, sight, taste, hearing and even touch with the special fabrics and materials used at your table. There’s simply nothing like it.

IV Drips is not like any other IV therapy offered on the market due to their unique and individualized approach to each client. A true concierge-style outfit, this collective of nurses, located throughout major markets in the United States like New York and South Florida, aims at customizing each formula to make you feel your very best. The first step is to call for an appointment at which time all your information will be taken – including health information to be sure you are viable for a drip. This can be for something as simple as a hangover or something more long-term like fatigue and lack of energy. IV Drips offers solutions for things like boosting immunity, increasing stamina and even helping your skin glow from the inside out. But, the basis here is hydration, which anyone with a busy life can likely benefit from. I have been a client of IV Drips and, as someone who has tried many at-home and in-office IV treatments, find that their level of service is unparalleled. I have received drips in my home and what a pleasure that is. Instead of getting in your car or on the train, the nurse comes to you with a backpack filled with your pre-selected ingredients for the drip that will be infused into your system, replenishing you with vitality. In the New York area, you can opt to go to one of their clinics in Manhattan or Brooklyn, but I always urge people to opt for the at-home treatments because of the convenience. Although this comes at a higher price, there is something to be said about being able to fix yourself up in the comfort of your living room. Nurses arrive on time, within a scheduled one-hour time slot and take no more than 5 minutes to set up. One thing all the nurses have in common who work for IV Drips is kindness and professionalism. Many of them work at hospitals on top of their role with IV Drips, which is a hard job and takes its toll. So, those who travel for IV Drips from client to client are more than thrilled to be using their skills in this more calm and elevated situation, which can be felt in their demeanor. I have genuinely loved all the nurses who have come to my home and they’ve all been experts at wielding needles and getting the IV into my vein with ease. I have had IVs with everything in them from Vitamin C, B, Glutathione and NAD+ therapy. I always recommend the basic vitamins to people for overall wellness but adding Glutathione for a nice liver detoxification. After your treatment, which averages roughly 45 minutes, you will feel hydrated, energized and a general sense of well-being. These IVs have helped me through everything from jet lag to sickness. I recommend them especially on the day of travel to get in front of jet lag. Airplanes tend to dry you out and most people never drink enough water while en route to their final destination. These will help you arrive feeling more refreshed and rested. A real trick for people on the road a lot. IV drips is a must for anyone looking to keep their wellness and hydration at its peak.

Brazil is my favorite country in the world, and Villa Se7e , located in Idyllic Trancoso, Bahia, is by far one of the most unique, special and interesting private properties I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying in. I was a guest recently at the villa, which is located just a stone’s throw from the famed Quadrado behind the gates of a lush private community. The villa, comprised of two houses, if more of a compound of chic tranquility, wellness and luxury in its most natural form. The hosts, Marcel and Fernanda, are beyond kind and welcoming – helping guests organize their stay in the Trancoso area from start to finish. I have been to Trancoso several times and I love it. Once a quiet fishing village, it has slowly transformed over decades to be a hotspot for the Brazilian glitterati and international travelers “in the know”. The perfect mix of countryside, beach, quaint village and party – it really has a vibe that cannot be matched anywhere else in the world and has a way of getting under your skin and into your soul in the best of ways. Arriving Villa Se7e from the United States requires one stop in São Paulo for most people with an hour and a half connection to Porto Seguro, located in the state of Bahia. It takes about 90 minutes to drive from the airport into the village of Trancoso but the drive is fantastically beautiful as you glide through fields of green, forest and witness the nearby turquoise waters appearing from time to time along the coast. You can choose to rent a car (which I recommend) or, the hosts of Villa Se7e are always willing to help organize transfers for you. I know the family of Villa Se7e well and they are part of the original “founders” of Trancoso as it is known today. Their family owns and operates the beautiful Posada Capim Santo in the Quadrado as well as the famed natural and organic Capim Santo restaurants that are located in Trancoso, Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. The food at these restaurants is another story, heavenly songs of Bahian culinary masterpieces. You will taste some of the fabulous food while staying here and the hosts can even organize a chef to cook in the home for you. Fernanda and Marcel know the area inside out and there is no better family to help guide you through your Trancoso experience. I arrived villa Se7e and was welcomed by Marcel and Fernanda. They showed me around and introduced myself and team to the household staff who help maintain the property and also serve as an informal housekeeper, cook and resident coconut gatherer for your morning coconut water. The entire team is lovely and allows you to feel completely at home in the eco-friendly haven. Billowing white curtains, dreamy beds and rustic, but luxurious charm are all a part of the experience. Villa Se7e is special in not only where it is located, but how it is built. It is completely self-sufficient and has a very, very low carbon footprint. It is the true definition of “eco-friendly”. Every material used and every process needed to keep the home running is good for the environment. The bamboo house, with its unique architectural design, allows natural ventilation and airflow. Banana trees serve as a filter for waste produced by guests of the house. Even the food grown on-property that you consume as part of your daily breakfast – it’s all done with the environment considered. Trancoso is relaxing and peaceful. Villa Se7e promotes this by offering guests everything from yoga mats to hammocks, a natural outdoor jacuzzi and shower, and bicycles for exploring the dirt roads and beaches. Every morning the housekeeper/cook arrives to prepare a traditional Bahian breakfast which marries offerings like: fresh tropical fruit, coconut water, eggs, bacon, pão de queijo, fried cheese, tapioca, homemade cakes and more. It truly is the highlight of the stay. I spent five nights at Villa Se7e and every night was amazing. I slept soundly, deeply and untroubled – the perfect end to a day of exploring nearly rivers, secluded beaches or shopping in the village. Marcel and Fernanda continually check-in to be sure of your comfort, always just a few minutes away in case you should need something. After a few days here your stress begins to dissipate and you regain a sense of yourself in a natural environment – perfect for those who live in big cities. Villa Se7e is the ultimate of Brazilian private home vacations. But, a word of warning. Once you come, and settle-in, you absolutely will not want to leave.

Level Airlines , the Spanish-based low-cost carrier with a hub in Barcelona, is the top low-cost option between the United States and Europe. Utilizing a basic, straight-forward ethos when transporting passengers Level offers flyers a safe, convenient and easy way to travel between key cities throughout North America to Spain and beyond. Serving New York JKF, Boston, San Francisco and Los Angeles – Level is poised to carry passengers, from all backgrounds, to Barcelona and beyond. I was a recent passenger aboard Level between New York’s JFK Airport and Barcelona. I knew of the airline as they once offered flights, pre-pandemic, between the U.S. and Paris’ Orly Airport, as well as Barcelona. Post-pandemic, Level committed again to re-launching service but with a more tailored approach. I was greatly looking forward to the experience and to witness, firsthand, their economy and premium cabins. Level puts control of the flight experience in the passenger’s hands. Their ethos is to offer friendly and professional service, which they did, and allow the passenger to decide how many “extras” are crucial to their flight experience including food, baggage and more. As a passenger on the airline you can choose to fly with no meal and no baggage if desired, or, for a small cost, add packages that include bags and in-flight snacks. I do love this model because the flight experience becomes a situation that the passenger has complete control over, which is nice when purchasing such a low fare. Flights between New York and Europe are quick. At roughly seven hours, give or take, the flying time isn’t enough for you to eat, watch a movie and arrive fully rested. For me personally, I always opt for sleep over entertainment and food and this was no different on my Level flight to Barcelona. My evening flight was scheduled for 11:00 pm and I arrived on time to JFK. The check-in is located in the same terminal as British Airways, terminal 7 – changing to terminal 8 December 2022. It is handled by an outsourced company working for Level to handle the check-in process. Check-in was easy breezy as I had no baggage and was able to move through security quickly. The flight to Barcelona boarded on time and I was flying their Premium class of service. I was invited to board early and find my seat. The seats were shockingly large, comfortable and, although not fully reclinable to a 180 degree position, were able to recline enough that, with the added foot rest, I knew I would have no problem sleeping. I had added my flight preferences online before the flight and was able to pre-order snacks and make a selection for my meal. Premium customers get dinner with the flight and I added a small bottle of wine. The flight attendants on Level were absolutely fantastic. I wasn’t expecting much in terms of service, but the service rivaled some major carriers’ business class service and that was an absolute pleasant surprise. I was greeted, shown my seat, checked-on several times in-flight and made to feel that if I needed anything, all I had to do was ask. After about 90 minutes in-flight I drifted off and was able to bet about 5 and a half hours of solid sleep before landing. The flight was easy, comfortable and, with the prices Level consistently offers passengers, makes absolute sense to continue flying. Even if Barcelona is not your final destination, you can simply purchase an additional inexpensive ticket to other parts of Europe as a connection. I was thrilled with my experience on Level and would fully recommend their flights for anyone looking for ease and simplicity in flying, at a very affordable cost.

Dr. Karyn Grossman is a cosmetic dermatology wizard. Operating two offices in Santa Monica, California, and New York City, she has earned an incredible amount of respect amongst her peers and patients since founding her practice, Grossman Dermatology , in 1995. As a pioneer of the “natural look”, she strives to give her patients the “best of the best” through every needle poke, skin product, skin tightening, and fat removing procedure she offers at her locations. Patients literally flock to her, booking months in advance for her limited availability on each coast. Nonetheless, once a coveted spot is booked in her schedule, you can expect to get nothing but kindness, attention, and a detail-oriented approach to turning back the clock on what the sun, age, and environment have done to your face and body. Aside from her expertise, intelligence, and talent, Dr. Grossman is energetic and genuinely excites you at the possibilities your appearance holds – if you are willing to take it seriously and do the work it takes to get from point A to point B. I am a patient of Dr. Grossman and visited her at her Upper East Side location during one of her whirlwind New York trips. Being 37 years old and having had touches of filler and Botox before, I was excited to experience what I had heard so much about. It had been about two years since I had done anything to my face and was definitely ready for a touch-up. Looking in the mirror, I was bothered by under-eye hollows from frequent travel, tear troughs forming from age, loss of cheek volume, and a touch of sagging around my usually sharp jawline. It was time to do something about it and I knew Dr. Grossman would be able to help. After a very detailed round of digital patient intake forms and a video consultation, she developed a plan for my face that she would enact a few days later when she landed in New York City. Dr. Grossman is the best in the industry and there’s a reason for that. She holds natural talent and the ability to look at a patient from both a medical and cosmetic angle. Not only does she have the book smarts to have done her residency and fellowship at Harvard University, but she is able to use her tools and the latest technology available as an artist. This is rare. As I walked in for my early morning appointment in New York I was excited to meet her and her staff. The incredible women she has working with her travel between New York and Los Angeles and do a superb job of keeping patients informed, happy and in a good mood. As I arrived, I was welcomed with enthusiasm and led to the treatment room where my before pictures were taken on an iPad. The room was already prepared with the materials Dr. Grossman decided upon during our virtual consultation. The table was full of everything from Botox, Radiesse, Restalyne, and more. At first glance, I thought to myself, “Oh, God. I must look worse than I thought.” But, as the doctor came in it became apparent that, like a true artist, she needed many “paints” and “colors” to choose from. It’s not that everything was used, but Dr. Grossman is meticulous about placing certain filler material and neurotoxins in just the right places – and she has her favorites for different areas of the face. After a quick conversation and recap of what the plan was, Dr. Grossman went to work. One of the nurses had pre-numbed my face, so I was feeling no pain at all – just slight pressure as the filler began to be inserted. Dr. Grossman works efficiently yet with care, paying close attention to the patient’s comfort and stopping to hand them a mirror to look at things as she’s working. I absolutely love this as it allows you to be a part of the process. It makes the patient feel as if things are being done with them, instead of to them. Filler was placed in my upper cheek area, jawline, nose, nasal labial folds, and a few other places to round everything out. My procedure was complete within 30 minutes and I had minimal bruising and swelling after. Dr. Grossman and her team made sure I was comfortable after the injections and had bags of ice prepared for me to use immediately. This helps minimize the swelling and bruising. I stayed in the office for fifteen minutes to ice and be sure I was good to go. And, within a few minutes, I was already on my way home. The day following my procedure I was slightly swollen. No one but I would know the difference. Honestly, Dr. Grossman’s technique is so gentle, there isn’t much concern about heavy-duty swelling – although this can happen with those prone to swell. Several days after my appointment as things began to settle, I looked better and better – and phenomenal after a week! What I love about Dr. Grossman is just how much I naturally trust her. She incites this feeling in her patients and made me feel like I was truly being looked after. She is conservative and will not overdo anything on your face. She is the doctor for people seeking a true refresh, but one that no one else would be able to detect. She helps you achieve your full aesthetic potential and is honest along the way with what you can expect. After another day or two in New York, she was already back in Los Angeles and her team was on the phone with me to make sure I was feeling good post-procedure. I believe Dr. Grossman is the best in the United States, and I am not alone in that opinion. I am now an advocate of her work and would recommend anyone looking for the perfect mixture of science and beauty make an appointment in Los Angeles or New York. You will indeed come through the other side looking the very best you possibly can. Anthony Berklich photographed in Lake Como, Italy Images provided by Grossman Dermatology

Dr. Sofa , the formidable company known in the New York area as the “sofa surgeon” for their expertise at deconstructing sofas for complicated apartment moves, has so much more in their repertoire to offer. A full custom furniture operation, Dr. Sofa is known for their ability to take your dream for the ideal piece of furniture and turn it into reality. And, they do all of this with care and the most detailed eyes in the industry. Dr. Sofa is not just a company, but an actual person. Shlomi Eini is the man behind the operation – a true artist that began repairing and sketching furniture from a young age. Shlomi contributed his skills to his family business and eventually expanded to his own enterprise delivering solutions to those in search of custom furniture, upholstery cleaning, furniture modification and his own line of signature furniture. His reputation in the industry became so well-respected, that his company grew in leaps and bounds. We worked with Shlomi and his amazing team at Dr. Sofa to design a custom banquette for a galley-style kitchen in a design show house in New York City. The process began with a sketch and an idea that our designer had to create a comfortable seating solution in a narrow space. The sketch was sent to Dr. Sofa with crude measurements, design ideas and more. Shlomi immediately took the idea and ran with it, helping formalize the sketch into an actual living and breathing idea that could develop into a real piece of furniture that added not only function but beauty and more to the space. The banquette was built in Dr. Sofa’s workshop by a group of people who are experts at creating solid, durable and beautifully-made furniture. Shlomi worked with our team throughout the process to add elements like soft-close storage drawers, high gloss finishes and a beautifully upholstered tufted back with performance fabric ideal of a kitchen space. The team at Dr. Sofa stayed in close touch with us throughout the process to be sure we were on the same page with all of the nuances pertaining to the piece of furniture. The entire process took a matter of weeks and Dr. Sofa delivered the banquette in two pieces ready to be installed. Their skilled team members installed the banquette to fit perfectly in the kitchen and it brought the entire room to life.

Nestled in the heart of the Atlantic, the Portuguese island of Madeira is famous for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush vegetation, and mild climate. It’s a nature lover’s paradise. From lush mountain hikes to leisurely walks through aromatic vineyards, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Madeira. Here are three of the best: 1. Visit the Laurissilva Forest The Laurissilva Forest is a protected area of Madeira that is known for its lush vegetation and stunning scenery. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to Madeira’s iconic laurel trees, as well as a wealth of other plant and animal species. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and birdwatching in the forest, as well as picnicking and relaxing with a view. In addition, the forest offers dramatic vistas over the island and the surrounding ocean. Whether you are looking for a place to enjoy a bit of nature or witness a species of tree that has been around since the time of the Dinosaurs, this spot on the island is a must-visit destination. 2. Take one of the Levada walks One of the best ways to explore the island is by taking one of the many Levada walks . A Levada is a man-made system of aqueducts and tunnels used to transport water from the mountains to the coastal areas. The Levadas were built over 500 years ago, and today they provide an excellent network of hiking trails because the irrigation channels wind their way through the mountains, offering stunning views and a chance to spot some of the island’s native wildlife. Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll or a challenging hike, there’s a Levada walk to suit everyone. Some of the most exciting for visitors include trails like Vereda dos Balcões, Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço and a walk that takes you between Eira do Serrado and Curral das Freiras. On any route, you will get to experience some of Madeira’s most beautiful scenery along the way. So if you are planning a visit to Madeira, be sure to add a Levada walk to your itinerary. You won’t regret it. 3. Try the local wine in one of the vineyards Boasting a mild climate and fertile soil, Madeira is ideal as a wine-growing location. There are numerous vineyards dotting the landscape and many offer tours and individual tastings. The island of Madeira is known for its Madeira wine, which is an important part of history there, and it’s sold in most wine stores and in most restaurants. The wine is rich, sweet with a light nutty flavor, and goes perfectly paired with dessert or as an aperitif on its own. These wines are local and not mass-produced. Spending a day popping in and out of the vineyards and trying one of the varietals native to the island is the perfect addition to any Madeira itinerary. All in all, Madeira is perfect for anyone looking for a little fun, a little relaxation and a lot of nature.

EcoSmart , the phenomenal clean-burning ethanol fireplaces from MAD USA, are the most practical, beautiful, and easy-to-install fireplaces that require no gas line, electricity, or other sources of power that usually hinders most designers. Conceptualized by the innovative MAD Design Group, an Australia-based company with divisions in the United States, Canada, the UK, and more – these fireplaces allow the joy and coziness associated with traditional wood-burning fireplaces to be easily brought into your home. We worked with MAD USA recently to install two fireplaces in the living area and primary bedroom of the Ultimate New York Apartment – a 1,700-square-foot loft space in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan. We worked with MAD USA and the Brooklyn-based contractor, Simply Divine Renovation, which is owned and led by Michael Rozinski. We began by receiving all the specifications from MAD USA regarding fireplace style, type, size, and detailed dimensions. This allowed our design team and Mr. Rozinski to develop an appropriate plan that would not only fit the rooms’ aesthetics but also allow for safety to remain a top priority with heat-resistant materials, etc. Once the master plan was outlined, MAD USA shipped their California-housed clean-burning ethanol devices to the location in New York so Mr. Rozinski could begin work on building the exterior structures that would house the units. Working with MAD USA is easy because they have team members dedicated to collaborating with contractors so that their fireplace units can perform functionally and safely within the spaces in which they exist. Because the units are so versatile, there are many design options that can be implemented based on the look for which the designer and client are planning. We chose to keep the space more modern and avoid traditional stone or other materials for a mantle. Instead, we opted for clean lines with a faux wall built above the fireplace to avoid a boxy look and more of a traditional “vented” appearance. The Simply Divine team was able to build the structures in both the main living area and bedroom that would house the fireplaces within a matter of ten days. This included using traditional drywall, heat-resistant hardy board, and steel supports. Once built, The EcoSmart units were slid in and secured easily. The fireplaces were then spackled and painted. Once finished, we opted to paint the fireplaces the same Benjamin Moore Aura color as the walls and keep the inside of the fireplaces black to allow for a stark juxtaposition. In the primary bedroom, the same tactics were used to build the structure, allowing for the perfect dimensions between two closet doors and adjusted to be a bit higher so that the roaring fire could be seen from the bed. Hanging above both the bedroom fireplace and the living area fireplace are Samsung “The Frame” televisions which added a sleek, non-TV appearance – to fit the modern vibe. The televisions work through WiFi and Mr. Rozinski created a trap door under each fireplace structure for the television boxes and WiFi routers to be hidden from sight. The bedroom MAD USA fireplace added an unspeakable level of coziness and warmth to what was a cold, large, and empty room. The surprising thing about the ethanol produced by MAD USA is that it actually kicks out an incredible amount of heat. This is beneficial in the winter as an alternative to standard heating sources. The team at MAD USA really are the fireplace experts. Aside from their clean-burning ethanol fireplaces, they do offer gas, electric, and fire pits amongst others . Their design is unparalleled in the industry and their customer service is seamless. Ethanol is absolutely perfect for New York City and many other cities around the country as no chimney or flue is required. Honestly, their usage is easy breezy. As long as you have the MAD USA-produced e-NRG ethanol on hand, which comes in easy-to-use fill bottles and a long lighter (provided by MAD USA) – you’ll be sitting in front of your fireplace with a glass of wine in no time.

IV Drips is New York’s top private concierge IV service to help you feel and look your very best. Founded by a registered nurse, Bracha Banayan, IV Drips offers clients storefront locations in both Brooklyn and Manhattan for those seeking a place to visit in order to help ease hangovers, increase energy and promote overall wellness. The company is rooted in the idea that we shouldn’t just pay attention to our health when we are sick, but, instead, be proactive about maintaining our bodies as machines, so they can function at their highest level. This ethos and care they give each and every customer is the reason they’ve become the go-to IV resource in the New York area for everyone from celebrities to business magnates. I learned about IV Drips through a friend and decided to try their concierge medicine division. This sect of business is designed to meet client needs and make receiving IVs as easy and simple as possible. The company will assign a nurse to you who will travel to your home, place of business, or elsewhere with the materials needed to administer a safe and private IV experience. Depending on your goals and desired outcome, IV Drips will help tailor the IV to you. These bags of hydration can be customized to have everything from Vitamin B, Glutathione (a powerful liver antioxidant) NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide – for energy enhancement), and more. The IVs can even have medication like Zofran, which is an anti-nausea drug that can ease hangovers. The IVs are mixed by health professionals and administered by registered nurses to adhere to state laws and safety regulations. Each client is evaluated to be sure they meet the health standards of the company before receiving any treatment. My first experience with IV Drips was seamless. The nurse arrived at my home within the given appointment window and introduced herself. She was kind and energetic and took the time to explain what the process would look like and what she was going to be administering that day through my IV bag. It took her ten minutes to set up, and in no time I was ready to receive my IV. She quickly inserted the IV into my chosen vein on my arm and the drip began. It took me about 90 minutes to complete the drip and I enjoyed a Netflix program while I was infused with vitamins and fluid for hydration. Afterward, the nurse packed up her things and was gone in a flash, and I went about my day. I immediately felt hydrated, energized, and ready to take on the day. My particular bag was mixed with vitamin B, and C, and I also received a Glutathione push – which aids the liver in detoxification and fights free radicals in the body. This feeling lasted for several days post-treatment and I noticed my increased energy levels as well as brighter, clearer eyes. I am a big proponent of health and wellness and love to experience proven treatments to increase my ability to live to my fullest potential. IV Drips’ service made doing this easy and in the most professional and conscious way. Many other IV treatments in New York are based in offices that you must visit and sit with other clients. It’s not always the nicest experience. IV Drips comes through with top-quality service in the most private of spaces – your home. What can be more comfortable and luxurious than that? For the best IV treatment in New York City, IV Drips cannot be beaten. And, if you’re located in The Hamptons, Connecticut, Boca Raton, Florida, Miami, Baltimore, or Houston – you can enjoy their services as well.