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If you’re looking forward to a fun-filled October, fall season or holiday getaway but haven't decided on a destination, you should definitely consider our top picks for great excursions in Southern California.

Buena Park

Home to five of the seven major attractions in Orange County, the area has long been considered the entertainment capital of Southern California. It’s an ideal location since there are so many exciting things for everyone to do within a few miles of each other! In fact, it’s only five miles from Disneyland, 15 miles from beaches and 20 miles from downtown Los Angeles ... but perhaps a million miles from your everyday life. So that means you’ll get the best bang for your travel buck.

Knott's Berry Farm & Soak City

For example, you can dive into some outdoor thrills at 'Knott's Berry Farm' theme park featuring rides that are sure to get your heart racing!  "HangTime," set 150-feet above the boardwalk, is the first and only dive coaster in California, while the new white water attraction "Calico River Rapids" will take you into uncharted territory. However, if adrenaline isn’t your thing, Knott’s Berry Farm is bursting with other attractions and entertainment for all ages, including stage shows, interactive experiences, delicious food creations and family-friendly fun featuring Snoopy and the Peanuts Gang. While in Buena Park, you can continue to make a splash at Orange County's largest outdoor water park, "Knott's Soak City," which boasts 23 water slides, a gigantic wave pool and cabana rentals!

Unique Dining Spots

When the sun goes down, you can make "eating" an experience with interactive dinner shows like the "Pirate's Dinner Adventure" set aboard an 18th century Spanish galleon replica ... the "Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament"... or the new vaudeville variety dinner show, "Teatro Martini." For all you foodies hungry for high-quality cuisine, check out Porto's Bakery and Cafe featuring the owners' original recipes from Cuba. With its famed potato balls, pastries and more, you’ll quickly taste why this eatery has a four-and-a-half star rating on Yelp with nearly 4,000 reviews!

Grilled steak plato from Porto's Also be sure to check out Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner, which has been family tradition In Buena Park for more than 80 years!  One of America's most popular family restaurants, it’s been serving up Cordelia Knott's fried chicken, homemade biscuits and boysenberry pies since 1934. In fact, Buena Park is the birthplace of the boysenberry––created right there more than 60 years ago. I also love the food and atmosphere at Rock N Brews, the brainchild of KISS front-men Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, which serves up comfort food and a side of rock 'n roll. Also popular is The Cauldron Sprits and Brews, an immersive dining experience featuring uniquely themed French-casual gastro grub with a wicked twist. This includes the “Knotty Kid” cocktail named after the adjacent amusement park, made of boysenberry cotton candy, vodka and lemon juice.

Military Honors

Another reason I recommend vacationing in Buena Park is because it’s an affordable SoCal destination with reasonably-priced hotels, and the city often has great promotions. In fact, this November and December, the City of Buena Park will honor the men and women of the United States Military with exclusive deals on the area's top hotels, attractions and restaurants. Perks include complimentary upgrades, free theme park admission and discounted rates on Buena Park Hotels.  Those interested can learn more at VisitBuenaPark.com/military. So, in all, Buena Park is a fabulous home base for fall and holiday travel, with tons of potential for fun, food and adventures! Check out VisitBuenaPark.com for more information and to order your free travel guide!

Oktoberfest at Big Bear Lake

Also fun this fall is Oktoberfest at Big Bear Lake, happening every weekend from now through November 2, where you can break out those lederhosen and dirndls and cluck the night away to the chicken dance! Of course, you can also enjoy ice-cold German beer served at eight bars, including the Craft House, which serves a variety of beers to go along with juicy bratwurst hot off the grill, homemade sauerkraut and fresh apple strudel. At Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest, there’s continuous live entertainment on two stages––including traditional polkas and dance floor favorites performed by real German bands. Other fun activities include log sawing competitions, stein holding contests, beer pong and more. There’s also a family section full of midway carnival games, face painting, inflatable slides and multiple bounce houses. So, see for yourself why Big Bear Lake’s event is Southern California’s number-one rated Oktoberfest. Purchase tickets online at BigBearEvents.com.

Big Bear Ropes Course

While in Big Bear, also check out the ropes course, which takes family adventure to new heights! This two-level obstacle course for both kids and adults towers 35 feet off the ground and offers 37 different challenges. Many of its features are exposed to nothing but air. One exciting element is the sky rail zipline stretching 80 feet and extending out onto a ledge, enhancing the overall thrill. Big Bear ropes course ensures the highest standards of safety, including a full-body harness connected to a safety line that’s inserted into a continuous track system. Each participant is fully secured at all times, from start to finish. The Big Bear ropes course is open daily, all-year round, and the cost is just $12 per person. Check it out at BigBearRopesCourse.com.

Big Bear ropes course

Unique San Diego Hotel Experience

All of that travel will surely make you tired and hungry, so I have some tasty finds on that front as well—a few of my favorite experiences in San Diego. First up in “America’s Finest City” is the Bristol Hotel in downtown San Diego, just steps from the famed Gaslamp Quarter, the waterfront and some of the city’s best restaurants and attractions. Known for offering exceptional service, the hotel recently put the finishing touches on a mid-century, modern-inspired renovation reflecting the vibrant art and music scene of the 1960s. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including three luxurious two-room suites, each themed after a landmark year in the 1960’s. Each suite features its own record player and record collection, so music fans can enjoy their favorite tunes while traveling. The Bristol’s “Party Like it’s 1969” package is fit for a fall getaway with a nostalgic twist. It features accommodations, discounted valet parking, an in-room game of Twister and a “morning after” kit – all perfect for a little weekend R&R!

The Bristol suite with record player Speaking of mornings at the Bristol, you can start your day at their beverage brewing station with tea and coffee each morning.  Located on the lobby floor, the hotel’s comfortable lobby lounge is a great spot to meet with friends for a warm beverage to begin planning the day’s activities. Dining options around the property are aplenty from alfresco eating on the sidewalks of this dynamic and cosmopolitan district, to sky high at a rooftop lounge, or in an intimate and ornately designed restaurant.

Top San Diego Dining

Also while in San Diego’s downtown Gaslamp Quarter, be sure to visit STK! Known for being “Not Your Daddy’s Steakhouse,” this restaurant offers a fun and dynamic fine dining experience. It’s an artful blend of a modern steakhouse and chic lounge into one fabulous outing focusing on the dining experience as a whole versus any singular aspect of a great night out. It’s not just STK’s food, sleek décor, in-house DJ or elevated Happy Hour offerings, it’s a combination of all these things creating their signature Vibe Dining. Popular dishes include bite-sized Lil’ BRGs made with Wagyu beef, Bigeye Tuna Tartare with soy honey emulsion, and, of course, the highest quality and cuts of steak. And, STK’s transparent and traceable beef program brings guests exceptional cuts of meat and crave-able rare dishes seldom found in restaurants. Find this and all of their locations online at STKSteakhouse.com.

How to scrutinize a legal cannabis company to mitigate risk, and best ensure your investment, partnership, employment or other involvement doesn’t ‘go up in smoke.’

The legal cannabis industry is projected to exceed $50 billion by 2022, according to Cowen & Co., and another report states that, from just January to September 2017, alone, “cultivation and retail investments tripled to $718 million.” With areas like agricultural technology, infused products, and software attracting copious investor dollars, the future for many stakeholders is decidedly green. Given the extent of near-guaranteed growth and financial upside of the legalized cannabis industry — and throngs of sectors related to it — there’s a gold rush mentality prompting people to invest in cannabis stocks, partner with cannabis companies, accept employment opportunities and otherwise stake their claim as the so-called “wild west of cannabis” unfolds. Flourish seems to be a better characterization, given that the legal cannabis industry is reported to be the single fastest-growing industry in the United States—one that added over 64,000 full-time legal cannabis jobs in 2018, bringing the total number of positions for the year to 211,000. That's a 44% rise from the prior year, according to a new report from Leafly and Whitney Economics.

An Insider Perspective

So, it’s certainly no surprise that trend-driven, profit-minded companies, entrepreneurs, investors and even job seekers are putting politics and value judgements aside, finding ways to leverage legalized cannabis interests to boost their own bottom lines. However, Zachary Venegas, CEO of Helix TCS, Inc., warns that “given the extent and complexity of issues surrounding safety and security, regulatory and compliance matters, technology and other key concerns that can vary from state to state, there are a number of key factors to examine before formally engaging or investing with a company operating in this space to best protect your interests.” Venegas' publicly-traded company (OTCQB:HLIX) is the industry’s leading provider of integrated operating solutions in the legal cannabis industry, and is heavily staffed with military veterans and law enforcement specialists, oversees security and transport, data analytics and compliance tracking concerns for legal cannabis businesses across the industry spectrum. According to Venegas, a pioneering executive helping drive cannabis industry maturation, “It's imperative to proceed with extreme caution, as seemingly legitimate purveyors in this space can still be riddled with red flags and hazards that they themselves may or may not be aware of, which are often not apparent to an outsider without proper due diligence. No profit-minded professional would prudently ignore such a market, but one must be mindful that this unique sector is rife with complex legal and regulatory risks.”

To help professionals and businesses at large better navigate what can be a treacherous field of issues while engaging with a cannabis company, Venegas offers this advice on a few ways to effectively scrutinize a legal cannabis company (whether private sector or publicly-traded).   Be skeptical of fast expansion This can be an indication that a company is prioritizing growth over regulatory compliance, which varies drastically by state. Professionals will understand that an appetite for risk is often a plus, and that companies that play it safe usually aren’t the ones to end up making waves. But, when it comes to the cannabis industry, there’s a caveat: according to Venegas, being cautious with regulatory requirements isn’t a mistake–it’s good management.

Graph courtesy of Leafly However inevitable as it might seem, legal cannabis hasn’t yet hit mainstream acceptance. Not being methodical in complying with regulations at both the local and federal level means these businesses are a step away from disaster. While any number of companies have so far skirted the minefield of regulations without consequence, they may have been lulled into a false sense of security as heavier enforcement is only a matter of time. Early adopter states like California intend to get tough on illegal pot purveyors, amid widespread reports that Nicole Elliott, senior adviser on cannabis to Gov. Gavin Newsom, said state funds for enforcement would nearly double in the fiscal year that begins July 1, to $113 million. California is also actively driving public information campaigns helping consumers get "#weedwise" to best ensure their purchases are legal and from properly state-licensed cannabis businesses. This includes production, manufacturing, retail, delivery, distributors, testing laboratories. Using tools like those the California Bureau of Cannabis Control offers at CApotcheck.com, consumers and industry players alike can readily vet an organization. One other way to evaluate a business on this point is to examine their legal team; any legitimate business who plans to stay in this particular game must have proper legal advice. If they don’t have lawyers, it’s highly possibly they’re not being mindful of this sector’s ever-changing legal landscape.

Avoid businesses without foundational advantages When trying to predict which companies will be around for the long-haul, investors should look to Canada, which legalized recreational marijuana in 2018. Nine out of the world’s top 10 largest cannabis companies, all Canadian, first had a solid grounding in supplying medical cannabis before branching into recreational products. “An advantage in infrastructure is huge,” Venegas notes. “We all tend to like the story of the tiny startup blowing up overnight, but the businesses most likely to take advantage of legalization are those who have existing footholds in the industry and the connections to exploit them. A lot of these smaller operations will be squeezed out of the market once legalization is widespread and larger players join in.” In other words, be wary when engaging companies entering the market—or even currently operating—without sound infrastructure, though they might seem like good prospects in the existing competitive environment. The only thing constant is change as the saying goes, so a company must be willing and able to scale, pivot and adapt as needed. Also consider that companies with operations in adjacent industries, like hydroponics equipment, also have a head start. A red flag: no executive experience in a heavily regulated industry

With the likes of Mariah Carey and 50 Cent apparent fans of hostel travel—where low prices, shared accommodations and sociable common areas reign supreme—it’s no wonder that this hospitality category is going gangbusters.

Photo Courtesy Hostelworld In fact, one published report indicates tremendous hostel market growth, which is estimated to reach a whopping $6.4 billion in 2020. That’s a lot of revenue for an industry that hangs its hat on reasonable prices that are often well below market-standards. One company doing more than its fair share to spur the success of this sector is Hostelworld, the leading hostel-focused online booking platform. In fact, their new travel report found that recent travelers who went on extended trips of three weeks or more, visiting multiple destinations, over four in five (81%) chose to stay in hostels.

Epic 20 Years Young Party

Exemplifying this burgeoning sector popularity, Hostelworld recently showcased its longevity by  celebrating its 20th year anniversary in epic form this summer, having thrown 20 parties over 20 days in 20 countries worldwide. The company’s “20 Years Young” parties as they were coined were hosted in all corners of the globe—from San Diego, Marrakech, Paris, Tokyo and beyond, ultimately coming to a wrap in London. The parties, with each themed around a particular year among the last twenty, lit up social media thanks to venues that were kitted out with party props as well as the bevy of travel influencers who hosted games and activities with much fanfare. This included a collective of Instagram Live streams said to have helped bring guests together in a way only the true hostel experience can.

The Party Locales

If you need more convincing about how grand Hostelworld’s “20 Years Young” party tour was, just read the schedule below to appreciate how awe-inspiring this celebration was. 1. Berlin, Germany: St. Christopher’s Berlin Mitte – Party Like It’s 1999 2. San Diego, USA: USA Hostels Ocean Beach – Millennium Party 3. Cancun, Mexico: Selina Cancun Downtown – Double Denim Party 4. Tayrona National Park, Colombia: Viajero Tayrona Hostel Colombia – Sk8er Party 5. Phuket, Thailand: Lub D Phuket – Under the Sea Party 6. Barcelona, Spain: Unite Hostel Barcelona – Funky Gym Party 7. Montreal, Canada: M Montreal Hostel – Jungle Party 8. Siem Reap, Cambodia: White Rabbit Hostel – Farewell Pluto Party 9. Sydney, Australia: Wake Up! Sydney Central – Pirate Party 10. Paris, France: JO&JOE Paris Gentilly – Lost Temple Party 11. Tel Aviv, Israel: Abraham Hostel Tel Aviv – Vampire Party 12. Ubud, Indonesia: Puri Garden Hotel & Hostel – Greek Myths Party 13. Cusco, Peru: Wild Rover Hostel Cusco – Witches and Wizards Party 14. Marrakech, Morocco Rodamon Riad Marrakech Hostel – Superhero Party 15. Goa, India: Jungle by Thehostelcrowd – Festival Party 16. Venice, Italy: Wombats City Hostel Venice Mestre – Emoji Party 17. Tokyo, Japan: Emblem Hostel Nishiarai – #MeetTheWorld Party 18. Sao Paulo, Brazil: O de Casa Hostel Bar – Unicorn Party 19. Lisbon, Portugal: The Independente Hostel & Suites – Superstar Party 20. London, England: Palmers Lodge Swiss Cottage – Birthday Party “The hostels for each of our events had been carefully selected to provide guests with the best possible experience, as we know today’s travelers expect far more than just a bed for the night from their accommodation,” noted a Hostelworld spokesperson. “As well as being perfectly located to explore, party guests were greeted by fabulous amenities like a cinema room in Mexico, a Muay Thai boxing ring in Thailand, and morning yoga in Indonesia.”

Hostel Social Offerings

How overachievers can stop sabotaging their own success or level of satisfaction after attaining superstar status

In today’s fast-paced business climate where nothing is certain but rapid-fire change, masses in business and work life have surrendered themselves to “overachievement” in pursuit of career success. Not just ordinary success, but rather the kind that exceeds expectations courtesy of excessive “above and beyond” effort put forth. Some relent to a life of overachievement willingly and enthusiastically as they yearn to earn, while others grievously succumb to a multitude of pressures (both external and self-inflicted) and work themselves to extremes in order to achieve and maintain an enviable stature and lifestyle overall. Indeed, overachievement is a concept that’s seemingly become a gold standard on how to become a “superstar” in business, career goals and life overall. Just Google search “how to overachieve” and the web will dutifully deliver over 355,000 resources to help propel your prosperity.

The dark side of success

While overachievement certainly has it’s tremendous share of virtues, having induced profound innovation, breakthroughs, productivity and abundance for individuals, organizations, industries and economies at large, there’s oft a dark side to this extreme approach to advancement. For some, yes, dreams come true, but throngs of others miss the mark despite best efforts. “This often happens because they’re aiming for achievements instead of at a deeper understanding of themselves and of what they want,” asserts Keren Eldad, a certified business coach and keynote speaker—trusted advisor to industry-leading executives, acclaimed entrepreneurs and premier organizations like Beyond Capital, Luxxotica, Van Cleef & Arpels, YPO, LVMH and IWC.

Photo Courtesy of www.KerenEldad.com “It’s a silent story shared by many who present a happy, accomplished and enviable image: one of putting on pretenses and internally writhing with angst and anxiety, of never having enough, of insecurity, doubt and dissatisfaction—a state I have coined  the ‘Superstar Paradox,’” Eldad says. “The paradox is when pursuing the illusory things we think we want actually produces undesirable results like strain to keep up low self-worth and general unhappiness—and those consequences actually impede our ability to attain what we want. It can become an exhausting and hugely debilitating vicious circle.”

Five foundational insights

Karen Eldad, photo courtesy of KarenEldad.com According to Eldad, the Superstar Paradox is a tough condition to solve because there’s one major, difficult hurdle to get past: admitting there’s a problem. “This requires relinquishing our main armor: that we know everything; that we have things ‘figured out,’” she says. “The key lies in accepting that ‘we don’t know what we don’t know’ and developing the courage and means to swap illusory happiness for a bona fide pursuit of wisdom that can bring true fulfillment, power and possibility.” That’s easier said than done, of course, and as daunting and even enigmatic as it might seem, taking that proactive first step is critical. So, in the spirit of “starting somewhere,” Eldad offers the five foundational insights below to help ensure some of your overachievement behaviors or mindsets won’t actually be undermining your success—or your level of life satisfaction even after you’ve actually realized superstar status.

Reframe your success story

Overachievers often believe that success only comes from power, money or status. Yes, those things are important benchmarks for career measurement, but being successful in life overall should be the true Holy Grail. So, if you are a C-suite executive, or aspire to be, but are riddled with anxiety, stress, pain and dissatisfaction–with relationships suffering in that wake–it’s evident that money and status isn’t proving as worthwhile as it can and should be. To initiate needed change, be brave enough to reframe your personal story, from cover to cover. Life isn’t meant to be one-dimensional or even work-centered, so actually sit down and map out what you would hope for each facet of your life to look like if it were a true success. Sure, start with career goals to get the juices flowing, as that might come most easily, but then do separate exercises for as many other areas of your life that you can break down. This can include marriage, children, extended family, friendships, professional networks, social media/networking, investments, travel, physical fitness, self-care/beauty, fashion and style, transportation, entertainment, hobbies and passions and so on. Life is abundant. You’ll soon see that life fulfillment means—and needs—so much more than what happens on the work front. It can be a means to an end, but there’s much in between. Once you start mapping it all out, you might come to the realization that you’ve been missing out on quite a lot in your quest for career glory. Reframe your success story with a more holistic approach—know what success “looks” like for each facet of your one and only life and commit (for real) to get there on all fronts.

Get out of your own way

Even superstars create self-imposed limitations based on what they originally perceived their goal or benchmark of success to be. Once achieved, it’s instinctive to want to bask in that “place,” both emotional and physical. After all, you worked to extremes to get there. But, overachievers inevitably will want more, and then other kinds of self-imposed limitations kick in that are often founded on what we perceive our own capabilities and opportunities—or lack thereof—to be. Even the most confident overachievers suffer the “can’t rant” internal dialogue. Take heed that "can’t" usually is not a real thing. From “I can’t afford to do what I really want” to “I can’t start over now”—this word usually really means “I won’t.” I won’t try, I won’t make it, I won’t have good ideas and on the self-deprecating dialogue goes. Yes, you worked damn hard to earn your current accolades and are pleased with yourself and where you are, but sometimes a hard pivot is needed to get you where you really want to go. The truth is never that you cannot, you just have to get yourself past the “will not.” Resources like talent, money, conditions, time, etc. are often not a genuine end game, but rather merely obstacles and challenges that CAN be overcome with the right amount of ingenuity and chutzpah.

Photo by Robert Bye on Unsplash

Classify and conquer your “fatal flaw”

One definition of a “fatal flaw” is that which causes an otherwise noble or exceptional individual to bring about their own downfall, which can be their own death—whether figuratively or literally. The idea that any particular fatal flaw is holding us back is a primary reason why so many overachievers become hooked on their actualized achievements and come to rely on fake confidence and aggrandizement versus operating from a place of vulnerability and authenticity. This in an effort to hide or cover up that flaw, whether consciously or unconsciously. Sometimes the phrase “character flaw” is synonymous, with this notion revealing a bit more that the flaw is about the person, themselves, and not really his or her circumstance. One report cites that, “Heroes have a fatal flaw which they wrestle with on a consistent basis. This may open them up for specific conflicts later,” again underscoring that this most sinister kind of flaw can not only hurt you now, but also well into the future. So, to achieve true superstar status fostering genuine, lasting happiness, it’s imperative to discern if you have a fatal flaw and, once identified, work wholeheartedly to resolve it—or learn how to effectively function at a high-level amid it (if that’s even possible). One piece of published research identified “Ten Fatal Flaws That Derail Leaders” that included things like "don’t collaborate," "resist new ideas," and "accept their own mediocre performance" with one particularly eye-opening point of note: that the flaws identified “sound like obvious flaws that any leader would try to fix. But the ineffective leaders we studied were often unaware that they exhibited these behaviors. In fact, those who were rated most negatively rated themselves substantially more positively. Leaders should take a very hard look at themselves and ask for candid feedback on performance in these specific areas. Their jobs may depend on it.”

Course-correct crippling self-constructs

A common obstacle to a "superstar" realizing genuine happiness is their own reliance on self-esteem, which is different from self-acceptance. Self-esteem is defined as “a positive or negative orientation toward oneself; an overall evaluation of one's worth or value” and, for overachievers, depends on external conditions being met (i.e., what they are achieving) and how they then "rank" against the others in their society. Self-acceptance, which is a critical factor in genuine happiness and authenticity, is founded on other key self-constructs like self-compassion—a person’s ability to forgive them self for essentially being human and, thus, imperfect. Overachievers and aptly accomplished superstars are susceptible to being heavily dependent upon the opinions of others, their corresponding status and their perceived stature versus understanding, and primarily relying on, self-acceptance. In many cases, this feeling of unworthiness is what coaches like me consider to be fatal flaws for the overachiever. It’s that “something” about themselves they feel makes them “less than.” That which they feel if others knew in full, it would cause those others to disrespect or outright reject them. For overachievers, what become fatal flaws are often regular imperfections like weight, assets, health, children, relationships and even their home. Anything can be regarded as a flaw to be perfected, really, in what becomes a never-ending and sometimes futile battle. This persistent effort fosters stress, and the fallout can be similar to those with a penchant for perfectionism, though not quite as extreme. Ultimately, this tendency can cause "superstars" to make tradeoffs, preferring "safe" and “lucrative” jobs and titles over pursuing their true passions, resigning themselves to a life in “golden handcuffs” or one that’s “good enough.” It also causes them to settle for mere connection over true bonding, real friendship and even true love (like marrying the "right" person on paper versus the person you actually are in deep love with). Resolution here can be found when an overachiever consciously fights back against the urge and instinct to beat themselves up for not being exactly "done" or for other self-assessed shortcomings, and replace those notions with ideation promoting high self-esteem characteristics. According to reports, this can include “being open to criticism, acknowledging mistakes and being comfortable with giving and receiving compliments,” while also knowing what your values are and living life accordingly. Some or all of which may sound easy, but given these insecurities have forged a well-honed path in an overachiever’s mind over time, it’ll take deliberate and sustained effort to course-correct. But, once the mind starts to habitually recognize internal dialogue promoting low self-worth, combating it will become perfunctory. Truly happy superstars are steadfast with the practice of being kind to themselves; unequivocal in their belief that self-criticism is self-defeating.

Pray for a sh*tstorm!

From new style staples to smart hair and skincare to ways to amp up that summer soirée, these 9 finds will help get you through the summer season in fab form.

Ah, summer. Sun in our face, wind in our hair, flowing fashions and travel...lots and lots of travel! Such an eagerly anticipated and exceedingly enjoyed season indubitably ushers in an array of covet-worthy beauty and style solutions and, lucky for you, I’ve found nine fine ones among them.

William Henry ‘Zurich’ Design Money Clips

Photo Courtesy of William Henry First are the stunningly gorgeous money clips from William Henry, a luxury jewelry and accessory brand. The company’s Zurich design money clips are stellar for summer. This striking ‘Raven’ design features a hand-forged 'brain wave' Damascus frame by Chad Nichols, inlaid with carbon fiber and a blazing red topaz. A beautiful engraving is bright cut against the matte-finished background. The Zurich ‘Panama’ design features hand-forging by Mike Sakmar using an ancient Japanese art used to decorate samurai swords. The inlay is cocobolo wood, punctuated with smoky quartz. Its engraving is also bright cut against the matte-finished background. Only 1,000 pieces of this special design are available. The Zurich ‘Talon’ money clip features a hand-carved sterling silver frame, inlaid with Kingman turquoise and a white topaz gemstone. This exquisite piece is another limited edition with just 250 available. Known for its meticulous use of classic natural materials, precious metals, gemstones, and state-of-the-art alloys, William Henry is a benchmark luxury brand that has an upper echelon following world-wide. Just visit the “Proud Owners” section of its web site to see what entertainment power players like Harrison Ford, Nick Jonas, Jared Leto, Laurence Fishburne, John Varvatos, Luke Bryan, Pierce Brosnan, and Adrien Brody own from the company’s collections. Evan A-list ladies like Cameron Diaz have bought this brand’s baubles.

Photo Courtesy of William Henry

Kut from the Kloth Apparel

Embodying the summer season and spirit of California overall, Kut from the Kloth is a vibrant, contemporary lifestyle brand. With innovative fabrics, a flawless fit and sophisticated style, the Kut collection is designed with your busy life in mind so you can confidently go from day to play. They recently debuted the go-anywhere “vacation vibes” line of ultra-fashionable travel staples designed for easy packing, wearing and washing. In fact, you can vacation with on-trend pieces created to wear right out of the suitcase. An online boutique beloved for blending modern trends with coastal flavor, Kut from the Kloth makes couture-inspired fashion both accessible and affordable. Their essential summer escape collection is great for jet-setters who want to look like a million bucks and still have plenty of cocktail cash. Short-sleeved button-ups feature palm fronds and pastel pinstripes, perfect underneath a soft, quilted sweatshirt or white denim jacket for chilly evenings. So feel those vacation vibes of delicate florals in shades of pink, coral and yellow that’ll help you stand out in the crowd.

Metalicious Silver Shark Tooth Necklace 

Photo Courtesy of Metalicious Thanks to the Metalicious line of luxury jewelry made from recycled metals, ocean-lovers can tell people their wearing the tooth of a maneater! The company’s Small Silver Shark Tooth Necklace is cast in sterling silver from an original shark tooth, then oxidized to bring out the details and give it a soft finish. Available with choice of a 17", 20" or 22" sterling curb chain to ensure it falls in that perfect spot on your necklace, the shark tooth pendant itself is 1" long x 3/4" wide. I like this piece because it can be edgy and sophisticated, but sweet and subtle also. It looks like a work of modern art! You can wear this every day, mixing and matching it with various looks. Metalicious sources recycled metals and ethically mined gemstones to create meaningful, handcrafted heirlooms that adhere to strict environmental and sustainability standards. Also charity-minded, the company donates a portion of its profits to City Harvest, a non-profit organization that provides meals to over 1.4 million New Yorkers a year.

Ekster 3.0 Parliament Smart Wallet 

Photo Courtesy of Ekster After reportedly raising over $1,000,000 in their previous crowd- funding campaign, Ekster, the world’s largest smart wallet brand, has launched their latest edition perfect for discerning men: the Ekster 3.0. This time they have engineered both the slimmest and the first voice-activated smart wallet to date. Owners can now call their wallet, find it on a map or even make use of the widespread Chipolo community to help locate their missing belongings easier than ever before. Battery issues are also no longer a problem due to Ekster’s patented solar-powered tracking solution, which on a full charge can last up to two whole months. These identity theft, RFID- blocking wallets also look extremely handsome. They’re held together by handcrafted premium leather for a luxury look and feel, while the design provides instant card access whenever necessary.

Dining Elevated Utensil ‘Uplifts’ 

Create a more stylish table setting and eat smarter at your summer soirées with the help of Dining Elevated Uplifts. These offer a cleaner, more sophisticated dining experience by elegantly raising all flatware and cutlery above a table's surface. Similar to a chopstick rest, Uplifts elevate western-style utensils to establish an improved aesthetic and hygienic standard. Uplifts look, feel and function better than the traditional table setups. Supported by research from the University of Arkansas and showcased by the National Environmental Health Association, Dining Elevated brings the highest level of food safety to hospitality. Featured on Top Chef and reportedly showcased in some of the finest hotels and restaurants, Uplifts are a game-changing addition to place setting design that the world never realized it always needed. Of course, there are a myriad to styled, materials and designs available to suit your desired aesthetic and complement your tableware.

Bloomers Frosé and More

Courtesy of Bloomers Frosé Bloomers Frosé is a vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free and kosher non-alcoholic mixer that’s ready to use and enjoy. They enable anyone to whip up an icy-smooth version of their favorite beverage in just minutes—important when you’d rather be poolside soaking up those rays. Bloomers Frosé makes it simple to take different variations of Rosé, Prosecco, Sparkling Wine, Sauvignon Blanc and spirits to the next level with easy-to-create frozen concoctions that are sure to please both intimate groups and large crowds, alike. Because what summer gathering is complete without the frozen beverage brigade? There are also brand new, low-calorie and low-sugar formulas offered by the company so, for those who want to keep their summer bod in check, there are plentiful options on that front as well.

Gleamin Vitamin C Clay Mask 

Photo Courtesy of Gleamin Gleamin is a yellow Australian Vitamin C Clay mask that's helping women worldwide achieve a natural glow! In fact, all over Instagram customers are talking about how this skincare solution has helped their skin tremendously, which is part of the reason this product actually sold out at least twice since it launched. The product is formulated from 100% vegan, natural and ethically-sourced ingredients like Yellow Clay, Aloe Vera, Turmeric, Kakadu Plum, Desert Lime, and Finger Lime Caviar. It’s designed to banish dark spots and hyperpigmentation, replacing these areas with a natural brightness. This Vitamin C-infused Clay Mask also revitalizes skin and replenishes moisture thanks to the Aloe Vera, while turmeric enhances and revives skin tone. Native to Australia, the Desert Lime, Kakadu Plum, and Finger Lime Caviar ingredients are among the richest known sources of Vitamin C. Together, this trio fights acne, heals imperfections, evens the skin tone, and prevents future breakouts. It’s especially helpful for users with deep skin tones. Gleamin offers a Glow-and-Go single kit that features a 60 gram jar of the vitamin c clay mask, plus a brightening brush, for just $39.99.  Value-minded customers can even save 25% if they purchase the Glow-and-Go Duo package that includes two masks and two brushes, available for $59.99. And, the company offers free shipping on all orders, so gotta love that!

Herban Body Care 

Imagine being able to hand-make soaps and elixirs from scratch, like a batch of fresh-baked cookies or homemade soup. Using only plant-based and concentrated formulas, you’d mix organic ingredients with herbs and essential oils from around the world. Now imagine if these soaps incorporated only body-nurturing ingredients which possess healing properties and promote a feeling of rejuvenation for all skin types. No need to get out the mixing bowl for such hand-crafted skincare, as you can turn to Herban, instead. Their collections are unisex and their custom-molded versions of different soap varietals are even featured at high-end wellness retreats and boutique hotels around the United States. All of their formulas are created in-house, so you never have to worry about outsourced ingredients. Particularly popular items include their Plant Bar soap and Salted Butter moisture scrubs. The company’s name has significant meaning as well. Breaking it down: Herb - they use herbs in all of the formulas; Ban - they ban all chemicals from their formulas; Her – it’s "her" company (woman owned); and Herban - originally targeting an underground urban culture. The line is also entirely gift-worthy!

Pura D'or Hair Care 

I get so much joy in helping fellow travel-lovers solve annoying problems and otherwise make their travels easier and more enjoyable.

Toward this end, I’m indelibly on the lookout for noteworthy innovations that can resolve common annoyances and foster fun and functionality while getting from point A to point B. And, of course, I’m ever on alert for fabulous destinations that’ll proffer a pleasurable experience. Here are a few of my finds that fit the bill this summer season and beyond.

#1 - Southern California Hilton Hotels / The Magic Castle Partnership 

First is a truly amazing travel option for those traversing through Southern California this year. SoCal Hilton guests now have coveted access to the iconic Magic Castle in Los Angeles! This unique Hilton partnership allows hotels guests the privilege to experience one of the most extraordinary and exclusive clubs in the world, plus a highly sought-after fine-dining destination in LA. While access to The Magic Castle is typically available only to members and invited guests, for the first time through the 2019 calendar year guests staying at participating Hilton hotels will be able to dine and see world-class illusion at the regal, Edwardian-era mansion in historic Hollywood. In addition to dining and viewing a variety of magical styles in multiple theaters, guests can also explore the property and enjoy drinks at one of five bars, including the Owl Bar or the Hat and the Hare Pub. Magic Castle is the most-recent, elite Southern California partner secured by Hilton to curate unique local experiences for hotel guests. As part of the Hilton and Magic Castle partnership, patrons must book at least six weeks in advance of their preferred visit date. From there, participating Hilton representatives will secure guests’ requested reservations at Magic Castle based on availability.

Photo Courtesy of Magic Castle.Ed Alonzo (Copyright Taylor Wong)

#2 - The Hunger Games: The Exhibition

As Las Vegas is also a prime vacation destination to get your entertainment-game on point this summer, be sure to check out The Hunger Games: The Exhibition at The MGM Grand. The attraction celebrates the epic journey of the famed book series’ main character Katniss Everdeen from her humble beginnings in District 12 to her rise as the Mockingjay throughout the trilogy. The brand-new attraction features inspirational galleries straight from the scenes outlined in the novels like the Hall of Justice, President Snow’s Office, the Tribute Train, District 13 and a 60-foot wide interactive archery training experience, the first of its kind on the Las Vegas Strip. Showcasing original costumes, genuine props and set recreations from Lionsgate’s record-breaking cinematic series, the exhibition includes hands-on interactives inviting visitors to engage with the behind-the-scenes content that brought the books by Suzanne Collins to life.

#3 - Nokia 4.2 Smartphone

The cutting-edge Nokia 4.2 has been designed to offer the latest in smartphone technological innovations at a truly accessible price. Complete with a sculpted-glass design, new display technology, an amazing dual depth-sensing rear camera and biometric face unlock system, this new device truly has it all compacted into one sleek design. Premiering the Google Assistant feature, the Nokia 4.2 will revolutionize the way you engage with your smartphone. Simply press the button once for instant access to all that Google Assistant has to offer, allowing for unfettered capability when you need it most. Whether it’s directions, making calls, listening to music or getting answers to some of life’s hardest questions, the Google Assistant can help get it done and find information faster than ever before. The Nokia 4.2 is an Android One device, meaning it just keeps getting better with time and ships with Android Pie out of the box. It is also available in two colors, Black or Pink Sand, so you can capitalize on your preference to make it your own.

#4 - Wearbuds - Smartband Housed True Wireless Earbuds

Aipower, an innovative smart device developer, has launched a Kickstarter preorder campaign for Wearbuds—the world's first wristband-housed true wireless earbuds designed for ultra-portability, compelling sound and with fitness tracker features. Wearbuds are the world’s first true wireless HiFi earbuds that are actually stored inside a fitness band. Both earbuds can be placed perfectly in the fitness tracking wristband which can also charge them with no need for carrying a charging case. The earbuds also feature flawless audio streaming with an advanced Qualcomm chipset and Bluetooth 5.0 technology, reproducing booming bass and crisp highs through fine-tuned, graphene-augmented drivers. Wearbuds are lightweight and ergonomic, providing a barely-there fit for unbeatable noise isolation performance with premium silicon ear tips. The band strap is made of silicone to enhance comfort while wearing and is able to maintain all-day dryness and cleanliness throughout various activities. Most true wireless earbuds don’t allow users to call freely using only one earbud due to the limitation of the connection technology. Wearbuds support Mono Mode, a feature that comes from the latest Bluetooth 5.0 technology, allowing fast and easy, hands-free phone calls with one or both earbuds. The fitness band can automatically count your steps and calories burned and monitor heart rate and sleep pattern as well. A built-in touchscreen on the band allows for instant access to all fitness data and notifications (including sedentary reminder) on the wrist. All fitness reports will be saved in the Aipower app. The band features on-wrist smartphone notifications which are customizable for calls, texts, Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp and Instagram.

# 5 - Amber Wave Wearable Towel 

Next I want to tell you about an ingenious item perfect for your summer vacations and adventures. It’s the Amber Towel, which is actually much more than just a towel because it converts from a towel to a blanket to a robe. It’s perfect for the beach, pool or bathroom. With the Amber Towel, instead of carrying one or multiple towels to and from your outing, plus a bag for personal belongings, you simply wear it and put your precious items in the pockets, keeping your hands free. So rather than having to carry a bag with a change of clothes, a towel and your essentials, you can just wear your swimsuit under the Amber Towel and be DONE. And it’s great to use as a blanket, because it spreads out to be a full 49” by 53”! I also love that it’s lightweight and 100 percent cotton. The Amber Towel has terry loops on one side for absorbency and on the other side loops have been sheared off for velour-like smoothness. So, it’s designed to be soft but also keep you dry and warm. And, the Amber Towel is definitely comfy. The armholes are long so it’s easy to just slip on, and it has a very soft fabric that’s hand-stitched all around, including the pockets. When laid fully open it could actually fit two people. The hoodie also makes it easy to hang and helps your head dry off fast. The Amber Towel comes in one size and fits everyone from Small to Large and is available in four colors: white, navy blue, teal and sunset orange. Plus, it’s washer and dryer safe, too.

#6 - Solo New York Parker Tote 

When seeking a chic carrying solution for more city-bound occasions, you can soirée and jet set in style all summer long with The Parker Tote from Solo New York. This is a hybrid backpack and tote designed for the working woman driven by her passions. The sophisticated, sleek gold and black style of the Parker Tote is inspired by the heart and soul of New York–creating a chic look that goes with everything. The bag itself is embezzled with gold hardware and interlaced through the zipper with golden undertones. It includes a fully padded, 15.6" laptop sleeve compartment, interior organizer section and padded hideaway backpack straps. The back panel of the tote also slides over the luggage handle for efficient transformation and all-around easy access to whatever compartment you need at any time.