We know basically nothing about Derek Jeter. Other than the whole Yankee/dating models thing. But even that admitted, we still wouldn’t have pegged him for the type to own a castle… let alone one in upstate New York. Built in 1903, the impressive Tiedemann Castle sits a stone throne in Greenwood Lake, boasting six bedrooms, a dozen bathrooms, and four kitchens (not including the outdoor one). Oh, and it also has a 6-foot stone wall, a turret, a guest house, a pool house, a boat house, and its own Statue of Liberty replica.
But it appears the time has come to part with, let’s be real, this totally bizarre real estate gem. That is if he can find someone with deep enough pockets to take it off his hands, with Jeter having listed the property for $14.5 million.
Well we totally did not see this collaboration coming. Colorful zigzag loving fashion house Missoni has partnered up with Funboy for the must-have pool accessory of the summer, and we could not be more excited!
The reversible designer float features the classic Missoni pattern in two bright, fun palettes. Because one day you may be more of a blue, and the next you may be a tropical skittle kaleidoscope. And it’s very important that your pool float reflects that.
While the price tag may seem a bit high, topping out at $148, again – it’s two for the price of one basically! Plus, chic doesn’t come cheap.
The era of the pool swan has come to an end. Don’t be late to the butterfly party!
It’s definitely not summer until you’ve a glass of rosé in hand. And it’s unfortunately not summer until you’ve spent 3 and a half hours in traffic-ed transit out East. Especially since the only place worth hanging out in the Hamptons these days is all the way at the end of Long Island!
For those of you packing a picnic for Ditch Plains, planning cocktails out on your deck with friends, or stuck in the city looking for a taste of everyone’s favorite Hampton spot, there’s only one brand you need search out this season – Montauk Wine Company.
Having just released two new wines, each of Montauk Wine Company‘s vintages is a unique blend, crafted from North Fork grapes. There’s the Montauk Summer Rosé, which is a blend of Syrah, Malbec and Merlot grapes. And then the Montauk Great White (great name, btw), which is a blend of Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Riesling. Each bottle is decorated with exclusive labels created by Hamptons artist and illustrator Peter Spacek – an elusive Montauk surfer known for his surf-centric illustrations.
Harvested, blended and bottled by Premium Wine Group in Mattituck, NY, both Montauk Summer Rosé and Montauk Great White are limited production, so stock up quick and prepare to enjoy!
Starting June 30th, every week will be Shark Week in New York. You know, if you’re into that kind of thing.
After much anticipation, the New York Aquarium will open their latest permanent exhibit, “Ocean Wonders: Sharks!” And perfect timing, no? Because who doesn’t want to be reminded of our our sharp-toothed friends during beach season!
Housing over 115 marine species, including 18 different kinds of sharks and rays, the show’s pièce de résistance is its long tunnel walkway, which will give visitors the chance to observe the underwater goings on of a coral reef, with blacktip reef sharks, butterflyfish, and zebra sharks swimming overhead.
Apparently the whole project cost the aquarium $158 million to create – so really, showing up once is the least you can do!
Karl Lagerfeld’s lavish “Villa Jako,” named in honor of his longtime partner, Parisian socialite Jacques de Bascher, who passed away in 1989, has hit the market for 10 million euros ($11.7 mil). Purchased in 1989 and situated along the Elbe River in Hamburg, Germany, Lagerfeld lived in the stunning, ultra-lavish estate for most of the 90s.
Though he sold the home in 1998, vestiges of his designs still remain.
Resembling a Roman villa, it features lush gardens and expansive rooms, complete with a grand facade and classical details, including an impluvium, a Roman water pool, in the foyer. The grand living room features luminous ceilings decorated in gold leaf, which date back to when the home was originally built.
The gorgeous estate sits at the center of a 12,000-square-meter property overlooking the Elbe River. The three-bedroom house was originally built as a single-story mansion for shipping magnate Hermann Witte during the 1920s.
Today, the perfectly manicured grounds and gilded interiors are as rich in history as they are in style – just like Lagerfeld himself.
A hostess gift isn’t supposed to be extravagant. It’s a token to uphold your ‘never arrives empty handed’ title and make the other guests look bad. No hostess wants to fake gush over something that screams last minute (scented candle) and since Takashimaya on Fifth Ave closed there’s no go-to hostess gift store. The following gifts are the perfect blend of personal and applicable to anyone. Gift giving is an art and as in every medium, you have to provide what they don’t know they want. Whether you’re spending the weekend at a family friend’s vacation house or crashing on your sister’s couch, these gifts will ensure your Favorite Guest streak continues. Always make your bed, refill the Brita, and bring a present.
Poolside Bags
Who wouldn’t want a straw bag (or hat) with customizable, stitched verbiage. Fans include Reese Witherspoon, Gigi Hadid, and Gwyneth Paltrow. Pick from “I got 99 problems but a beach ain’t one,” “Out of office,” “HAPPY,” and more. Be boring and get your host’s name or be fun and get something profane. Looks great with tiny Bella Hadid sunglasses.
Julie Houts
Dubbed ‘Instagram’s Favorite illustrator’, Julie Houts is hilarious and oh so talented. In her book Literally Me, artistry is matched ineffably by wit. She covers topics ranging from bobby pin struggles to white privilege. Her illustrations wear kick flares and off-the-shoulder jumpsuits and have the same non-problem problems as yourself. Comments on her Insta include “too real,” “omg this is us,” and “so accurate!” Any coffee table would be lucky to showcase Literally Me.
Rachel Zoe Box of Style
This is such a guest power move: send your gift ahead of you. Do it when you’re staying at your boyfriend’s parents. You will necessarily go up in his mom’s esteem – but that doesn’t mean she’ll like you. It’s everything you want in a hostess gift -low effort, high impact. The merch included is *supposedly* worth hundreds of dollars and it arrives nicely packaged. Added bonus, anything the recipient doesn’t like (fringe earrings, batiked towel, Kate Somerville moisturizer) is significant enough to make a great re-gift.
AERIN x Williams Sonoma Champagne Bucket
Aerin Lauder + Williams Sonoma is the hostess-est collection of all time. This collaboration is basically a no fail collection of hostess gifts. My second favorite piece is the Figural Leaf Cheese Board.
Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask
There is no higher compliment than being asked, “What’s your skincare routine?” Summer Fridays’ Jet Lag Mask will prompt such a question. This mask is worthy of all the hype it received. It’s a must have for anyone partial to #shelfies – looks great next to your Drunk Elephant and Tata Harper. I like to use Summer Fridays as the last step in my nighttime routine so I can revel in niacinamide and antioxidants overnight. It’s truly rejuvenating/restorative/whatever-buzzword happens-to-ensnare-you. Your trendy and soon to be glowy hostess will thank you.
Compartés x Kelly Wearstler BIJOU Chocolate Bar
Kelly Wearstler’s confectionary collaborationis inspiringly on brand. The vegan dark chocolate with glittery sugar crystals is an objet d’art in and of itself. So much the better if it’s too pretty to eat.
The Laundress x John Mayer
An out of left field collab has brought together John Mayer (purveyor of quotable phrases such as “sexual napalm” and “Your body is a wonderland”) and The Laundress. The resulting product is Out West Laundry Detergent and Fabric Fresh. In keeping with John’s weird Montana/poncho/braided belt phase, 50% of the proceeds benefit the Montana Association of Land Trusts.
Fenty Body Lava
When it comes to gifts, the more frivolous the better. The sole purpose of this exceptionally frivolous product is to luminize skin – an entirely fabricated concept. Make sure you DM your hostess Rihanna’s Body Lava tutorial (and parodies).
Stamp Holder
Pairs well with banker’s lamp and leather desk blotter. What’s more lockjaw than a brass stamp holder? It’s the pinnacle of Thurston Howell III-dom and it’s amazing. Your hostess will be flattered that you think of her as a woman of leisure with penpals to answer between luncheons.
Kate Schelter Watercolor Print
Kate Schelter paints an Old Bay canister and it’s art. She is the exemplar of the word ‘lifestyle.’ The cultural artifacts that serve as her subjects include Sperrys, Range Rovers, hydrangeas, and wooden tennis racquets – perfect for your Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard hostess.
After all their official work, the Royal Family – rightly so – indulges in lavish holidays. The destinations are varied in climate and by continent, curated and customized – and you can bet your-royal-highness, luxurious as hell. Here (Heir) are some of the exquisite getaways that have been, and continue to be, frequented by royals across the globe. Put these regal hot spots on your bucket list and you may even find your own Prince Charming – at least long enough for a vacation fling.
Mustique
Who: Prince William and Kate Middleton
What: For summer holidays, Prince William and Kate Middleton have been known to travel to the private island of Mustique in the Grenadines, during the months of February and March to join the Middletons at their home for annual holiday. The Duke and Duchess duo have enjoyed staying at Aurora House, a three-bedroom cottage with a five-person staff and breathtaking views of the truest of the bluest waters one could ever set their eyes on.
The royal roots of this oasis go all the way back to Princess Margaret, William’s Great-Aunt, who had her very own villa, Les Jolies Eaux – because when you’re a royal you aren’t shacking it up in a hut. At Mustique, an island full of enchantment awaits. View your villa and plan your royal retreat; take pictures for the gram, and leave your followers saying, “it must be Mustique.”
Alberta, Canada
Who: Royal Newlyweds, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle (oh, and the Queen)
What: Located in Alberta’s breathtaking Jasper National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the iconic Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Resort, was rumored to serve as the destination for this couple’s honeymoon retreat. Luxurious, earthy, picturesque and rich in history, this place provides the ultimate respite from the chaotic days in the life of being a royal (it takes a lot of energy to be royal and fabulous and look that good 24/7!). At 6,000 square feet, and around $7000 per night, the royal treatment certainly won’t lack here.
History has it that this very same resort was frequented by several members of the royal family, including King George VI in 1939, and Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip on a visit in June 2005. This truly reigns supreme as a British royal family favorite destination.
Courchevel & The French Alps
Who: The Royal Family
What: The French Alps are the go-to spot to hit the slopes and ski. Every year, multiple members can be found among the Alps. Princess Diana preferred this destination as a family favorite for snow-filled getaways, with the tradition continuing, as Prince William headed to the luxe town of Courchevel with Duchess Kate and their two children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, for their first holiday as a family. Of course, Prince Harry hits the slopes quite often so we’re sure he and Meghan will jet-set off to the Alps for frequent ski trips.
Verbier
Who: The Royal Family
What: Another Royal resort town, Verbier is the ultimate place for partiers who take their slopes and skis seriously. Hailed as one of the premier ‘off-piste’ resorts in the Alps and in the world, the cozy Swiss town has all of the accommodations for a luxurious getaway. And not only that, it’s no secret that this is the very place where Princess Eugenie first met fiance, Jack Brooksbank, and where Princess Eugenie’s own mother, Fergie, danced on a bar and flashed the crowd at the Farm Club in the ’70s (like we said, Verbier is known for quite the party scene), and last but not least, it also served as the setting of Prince William’s signature “dad dance” last year.
Botswana
Who: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
What: A scorching safari in Africa is sure to amp up any romance. Just weeks after their blind date, Harry whisked Meghan away to Meno A Kwena, a chic yet authentic camp in Botswana featuring antique maps, oriental rugs, and leather furniture. Talk about glamping! Situated cliffside, the hideaway offers stunning sunset views, as well as up close and personal sightings of zebras, elephants, and other exotic animals!
Nevis
Who: Basically the place most coveted by every royal, infleuncer, celeb, and the most important people you will ever meet.
What: Once the front-runner for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s honeymoon destination, a West Indies isle of choice for Princess Diana, and vacation hot spot for the world’s most powerful leaders, Nevis is exactly the kind of royal retreat you never knew you needed.
Prince Harry most notably visited the island with his mom in 1993, where they stayed at the magnificent 19-room Montpelier Plantation & Beach. Fit for a prince and princess, Nevis is the oldest British colony in the Caribbean. A majestic gem in the tropics, where one can find wild donkeys (you heard that right – wild donkeys), monkeys, mangoes galore, goats casually roaming through the hills, a single main road, and zero traffic lights, this place is basically heaven on earth.
As if that weren’t enough to pick up and globe-trot right now, it also also features no chain stores, no snobby cheap souvenir stands, and no pollution-causing Carnival cruise ships. Ah, what it’s like to vacation like the Royals….
Jordan
Who: Princess Beatrice
What: Harry and William’s titled cousin keeps company with a number of A-listers. In fact, everyone from Ellie Goulding and Misha Nonoo to Karlie Kloss and Joshua Kushner joined her on an exotic getaway to Jordan’s Wadi Rum Desert earlier this year for a vaca full of sand and dirt biking. Of course, the Prince of Jordan himself made an appearance during their camping trip. You may not get quite the royal treatment, but it sure looks fun.
Mallorca
Who: The Spanish Royal Family
What: Marivent Palace, the Spanish royals’ summer vacation destination and very own private residence, is the home where King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain are seen taking frequent strolls – I mean, I’d stroll around and marvel at the Palace too, if only I owned it. King Felipe VI has spent the Balearic summers there since he was a young child, and is keeping the annual tradition going strong with his own family, bringing Queen Letizia and Crown Princess Leonor and Princess Sofía to the opulent palace every summer. The palace gardens stretch across a grand total of around 9,700 square feet and boasts some serious green thumb envy, featuring 40 different plant species! If you’re ever lucky enough to make it there over Easter holiday, you might beat the clock and find waiting for you (well, there vacationing at least), the King, Queen, and Princesses themselves.
This summer, Color Factory is taking its vibrant pop-up art installation, after a successful run in San Francisco, to the Big Apple. The pop-up is slated to delight your senses with innovative and immersive art installations, boasting major social media appeal.
The colorful concept was founded by three friends; Jordan Ferney, a former event planner and the blogger behind the party and lifestyle site Oh Happy Day, artist Leah Rosenberg, and designer Erin Jang. The vibrant pop-up will occupy a space on Spring Street and will deck out the 20,000 square foot property between Varick Street and Sixth Avenue with immersive exhibitions designed by local artists. Sounds like the ultimate Pantone color palette dream come true.
While an opening date has yet to be confirmed, the imaginative installation is expected to open sometime in August, with tickets set to go on sale later on this summer. To avoid any possible FOMO that may result in you scavenging for tickets last minute, it’s highly suggested that you hop on the waiting list – stat!
There’s plenty to enjoy about a destination that’s merely sand and sea. But these beaches have more to offer.Some shores are lined with black or pink sand instead of white. Some spots feature shipwrecks, stunning rock formations, or wild pigs who share the water with tourists.FlightNetwork asked over 600 travel journalists, editors, bloggers and agencies to name the world’s best beaches based on categories like “sheer untouched beauty,” “sand and water quality,” and “actual days of sunshine.”Here are the 50 best beaches in the world that come recommended by travel experts.
“Cannon Beach has incredible Pacific Northwest vibes while remaining quiet and serene for a beach experience that wraps you in comfort.” — Round The World Girl
“Diani Beach transports you to a cultural beach experience made even more amazing with access to Kisite Marine Park for snorkeling and whale shark diving.” — AfricanMecca Safaris
48. Agiba Beach, Egypt
Agiba Beach. Waltraud Oe/Shutterstock
“Arabic for ‘miracle,’ it is no wonder this fantastic beach bears such a name. The bluest waters and plushest sands bring visitors from all over the world to this stunning landmark, creating a dreamy experience that ignites the senses.” — Matthew Greenspan, Flight Network
“The sky lights up above the beach with spectacular colors as the sun sets over the Caribbean Sea. It is one of the most romantic settings in the world.” — Gwen Pratesi, Pratesi Living
46. Radhanagar Beach, India
Radhanagar Beach. wallix/Shutterstock
“Radhanagar Beach is pure beauty off the beaten path in the Andaman Islands that rivals all other beach locations.” — View from the Wing
45. Ao Nang Beach, Thailand
Ao Nang Beach. R Scapinello/Shutterstock
“Ao Nang Beach transports you to another world, painted in hues of perfect blues and golds. The waters rush up to your sand covered feet while you look in awe at the ivy covered cliffs and wonder how you made it to paradise.” — Kensington Tours
44. One Foot Island, Cook Islands
One Foot Island. BlueOrange Studio/Shutterstock
“One Foot Island is untouched beauty that consists of sugar-white sand and uncrowded beaches with the clearest water I’ve ever seen.” — Ordinary Traveler
“Shoal Bay is everything you want in a tropical beach, with two miles of the most perfect sand fronted by perfect Caribbean waters and colorful coral reefs.” — Larry Olmsted, Forbes
42. Cala Mitjana, Spain
Cala Mitjana. Cyril PAPOT/Shutterstock
“Cala Mitjana is a small and beautiful sandy beach hidden in a rocky cove. Absolutely breathtaking with clear waters enclosed by plush sands and bounteous pines swaying cooly in the breeze. It is a natural wonder that enraptures your senses and surrounds you with a feeling of luxury.” — Paul Dow, TravMonkey
“The name ‘Lanikai’ translates into ‘heavenly sea,’ and Lanikai Beach lives up to its name with white soft sands and crystal clear calm blue waters. It is a breathtaking, mesmerizing wonder.” — Christine Kaaloa, GRRRL Traveler
40. Boulders Beach, South Africa
Boulders Beach. Olena Granko/Shutterstock
“Where else can you see penguins on a beach? The penguin colony at South Africa’s Boulders Beach, along with the beautiful boulders themselves, make this the most unusual yet incredible beach experience of my life.” — Melanie Votaw, freelance writer
39. Grand Anse Beach, Grenada
Grand Anse Beach. Pawel Kazmierczak/Shutterstock
“This 3.2 kilometer long stretch of paradise features calm turquoise waters, fine white sand, and a collection of intimate spaces meant for pure comfort and tropical relaxation.” — A Taste for Travel
38. Long Beach, Canada
Long Beach. LouieLea/Shutterstock
“This gorgeous stretch of northern sand offers a lush coastal rainforest, pounding surf, lively tidal pools, and unobstructed sunsets. It is an ideal place to ride waves, beach-comb, storm watch, and forget the world for a while.” — David Webb, travel writer
37. Los Roques Beach, Venezuela
Los Roques Beach. Giongi63/Shutterstock
“After traveling the world, I can say that Los Roques is truly a unique beach destination that everyone should experience.” — Laura Termini, Chicanol
36. Cala Goloroitze, Italy
Cala Goloroitze. Pixabay
“Cala Goloritze is really a hidden gem, remaining quiet and beautifully preserved without larger crowds. The emerald waters mesmerize while you float, captured by the tranquility of cool waters and ocean breezes.” — Daniel Chung, the modman
35. Île aux Nattes, Madagascar
Île aux Nattes. Christian Wittmann/Shutterstock
“A car-free island off Madagascar, Île aux Nattes has white sand, warm waters, and coral to make each visitor experience true awe in the face of beauty.” — Bradt Travel Guides
34. Dhigurah Island, Maldives
Dhigurah Island. amooo/Shutterstock
“You are truly steps away from the edge of paradise when you find yourself on Dhigurah Island. Soft white sand will surround you while crystal waters lap at your feet on an island meant for dreamers.” — Lindsey Parry, Arabian Notes
33. Kaputas Beach, Turkey
Kaputas Beach. sueleymancoskun/Shutterstock
“The vivid hues of nature dotted with brightly colored umbrellas make this place worthy of a picture perfect day. The crystalline water meeting with golden, sun-kissed sand makes you feel as though you have traveled to another world.” — Bobby Heard, Flight Network
“Great for walking, snorkeling, sunset gazing, and exploring nature’s wonders, Tunnels Beach truly has it all.” — Amber Selene Turpin, The Mercury News
“Stunning sand and clear turquoise water with romantic mountain and island vistas, embraced by lush South Pacific jungles make Champagne Beach a true Vanuatu experience.” — Karen T. Bartlett, travel writer
“This dreamy island needs to be seen to be believed. The ground literally sparkles with pink-tinted sand and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters.” — Jessica Loves, travel writer
29. Turquoise Bay, Australia
Turquoise Bay. John Crux/Shutterstock
“The beach is wide, remote, and with very few people meant for a serene day in the tropics. The underwater marine life makes this beach even more spectacular with the astounding Ningaloo Coral Reef.” — Uncornered Market
28. Honokalani Beach, Hawaii
Honokalani Beach. iofoto/Shutterstock
“With its black sand and lush green surroundings, Honokalani Beach is unlike any other beach in the world — which is exactly what makes it so special.” — Breanna Wilson, Forbes
“Anse Source D’Argent is a jaw dropping beach featuring sun-dappled giant boulders, calm turquoise waters, and snow white sand.” — Rob Hale, Travel N Relax Inc
25. Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands
Seven Mile Beach. Albert Pego/Shutterstock
“This grand stretch of white sandy beach is the perfect spot for relaxtion and island adventure. The clear sapphire blue waters are the most magnificent place for snorkeling, parasailing, or stand up paddle boarding.” — The Planet D
24. Cayo Coco, Cuba
Cayo Coco. Jan Burletson/Shutterstock
“Fine sand and pristine waters create a beach meant for peaceful swimming and relaxing moments on the shore.” — Cuba Explorer
23. Vaeroy Beach, Norway
Vaeroy Beach. Kochneva Tetyana/Shutterstock
“Vaeory is truly one of the most unique and distinctive beaches on the planet. You will be stunned not only by the jewel toned waters but by the impressive cliffs which frame the backdrop of an otherworldly location.” — Bobby Heard, Flight Network
22. Fulhadhoo Beach, Maldives
Fulhadhoo Beach. alionabirukova/Shutterstock
“This is the destination for luxurious days and nights spent entirely on a glowing tropical beach.” — Rachel Weir, Five Star Alliance
21. Île aux Cerfs, Mauritius
Île aux Cerfs. patano/Wikimedia Commons
“Crystalized blue waters and sugar white sands create an island worthy of an explorer’s paradise and top travel destination.” — Mohammad, La Vacanza Travel
“The pure beauty of the island is sure to warm your heart. Its black sand, gigantic basalt rocks, and crashing Atlantic waves will create lasting memories.” — Roamaroo
19. Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico
Flamenco Beach. Shutterstock
“Not only are there long stretches of powdery white sand and dazzling blue water, Flamenco Beach is also home to unique features which keep you returning for more.” — Travel Freak
18. Lucky Bay, Australia
Lucky Bay. Isabelle FABRE/Shutterstock
“Lucky Bay is one of the most stunning untouched landscapes featuring azure waters, blindingly white sand, and the occasional visit by local kangaroos.” — Rebecca Chisholm, Rottnest Island Authority
17. Half Moon Bay, Antigua
Half Moon Bay. kc_film/Shutterstock
“Half Moon Bay transports its visitors into a world of turquoise, clear waters and exquisite views. Snorkeling right off-shore is a mesmerizing experience unlike any other.” — Katie Kelly Bell, Forbes
16. Saltwhistle Bay, St. Vincent and Grenadines
Saltwhistle Bay. bcampbell65/Shutterstock
“A picture-perfect slice of sand. With hardly any development around, it’s peaceful and quiet.” — Jim Byers, Travel Pulse Canada
15. Muri Beach, Cook Islands
Muri Beach. Andrea Izzotti/Shutterstock
“Muri Beach is a small, extremely romantic island getaway. Its white sands and turquoise waters will make you believe in true love.” — Mirka Moore Travels
14. El Nido, Philippines
El Nido. Shutterstock
“I have never seen more pristine beauty in my life. This place is stunningly gorgeous beyond measure, with miles of beaches and coves.” — Points and Travel
13. Blue Lagoon, Fiji
Blue Lagoon. Yefimova Olena/Shutterstock
“Rustic, low-key lodging and colorful shallow coral for snorkeling await you on this dreamy beach destination.” — Lauren Mowery, Forbes
12. Pig Beach, Bahamas
Pig Beach. Nejron Photo/Shutterstock
“Beautiful white sand, turquoise water, and tropical pigs are the most remarkable parts of this oasis.” — Whispered Inspirations
11. Maya Bay, Thailand
Maya Bay. Diego Fiore/Shutterstock
“Enclosed by craggy rock formations with water that sparkles in the sun, this beach is a breathtaking, one-of-a-kind experience that every traveler must explore.” — Marc Matsumoto, No Recipes
“This amazing beach in the US Virgin Islands offers spectacular snorkeling, extraordinary views, and so much more beauty that you have to see it to believe it.” —Michelle, Making Sense of Cents
9. Hidden Beach, Mexico
Hidden Beach. fernandocpauletto/Shutterstock
“A true secret paradise invisible from the outside. Playa del Amor is filled with hidden water tunnels to explore for hours.” — The Product Poet
8. Hyams Beach, Australia
Hyams Beach. adog/Shutterstock
“Hyams Beach had the whitest sand I’ve ever seen against a beautiful backdrop. I almost couldn’t believe it to be true.” — Jemma York, Academy Travel
7. Playa Paraiso, Mexico
Playa Paraiso. Pixabay
“Gorgeous aqua blue water and pristine white sand combine to create the most amazing beach imaginable.” — Amber Mamian, Global Munchkins
6. Baia Dos Porcos, Brazil
Baia Dos Porcos. Shutterstock
“The most picturesque beach you can imagine, Baia Dos Porcos is inundated with the bluest of turquoise waters and vividly colored wildlife hidden behind lofty cliffs.” — Marisa Megan, Traveling With Boys
“A picture perfect setting awaits you at Navagio Beach, an exposed cove on the coast of Zakynthos. Visitors come from all corners of the world to grab photos of the famous ship wreck, called Panagiotis. The gorgeous blue water is just stunning in contrast to the white cliffs and sand.” — Jolene Ejmont, Wanderlust Story Tellers
“The island has a stunning pastel pink sand beach that adds a dreamy feeling to the atmosphere. The best part is this dreamscape is your reality on Harbour Island.” — Stephanie White Travels
“Whitehaven Beach has oh-so-white sands, deepest green rainforests, and crystalline waters. It’s a wild island, part of the Great Barrier Reef, and by far the most beautiful location to experience.” — Sharron Livingston, The Travel Magazine
Hearty bean soup has been on the menu in the Senate’s restaurant every day since at least 1903. You could say it’s a rare unanimous mandate. According to one story, the tradition was started by a Congressman from Idaho who contended the soup should always include mashed potatoes, presumably Idaho potatoes. Another story attributes the soup request to a Senator from Minnesota who simply loved the stuff, despite no obvious ingredient connection to his home state. Senate Bean Soup (the more common name for this dish) is so iconic that it has its own recipe page on the Senate website, one version with spuds and one without. It’s easy to see why it’s so popular. The soup is inexpensive, easy to prepare, and although it needs to simmer for a couple hours, requires little attention beyond an occasional stir. If you don’t have time to soak the dried beans for 8 hours or overnight, try this quick-soak method. Put the beans in a large pot, add water 2 inches above the beans, and bring to a boil. Cover, remove from heat, and let stand 1 hour. Drain the beans, and then cook according to the recipe.
Ingredients
1 pound dried white navy beans, sorted of debris and rinsed
1 (about 1-lb.) ham bone or uncured ham hock
2 1/2 quarts water
1 large russet potato (about 8 oz.)
3 cups chopped celery (about 6 stalks)
3 cups chopped yellow onion (about 3 medium onions)
1 garlic clove, minced
3 teaspoons kosher salt
3/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
How to Make It
Step 1
Place beans in a Dutch oven; add water to cover, and soak 8 hours or overnight. Drain beans. Add ham bone and water. Cover and bring to a boil over high; reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 1 hour.
Step 2
Rinse potato; pierce with a fork, and wrap potato in a paper towel. Microwave on HIGH until tender, about 4 to 5 minutes; peel and mash potato. Stir potato, celery, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper into bean mixture; simmer over medium-low until beans are tender, about 1 hour. Remove ham bone from Dutch oven, and let stand until cool enough to handle, about 20 minutes. Remove and discard bone and fat; dice meat, and stir into bean mixture. Top each serving with chopped parsley.
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