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Digital Edition, LIFESTYLE, Luxury, The Issue

VanDutch Yachts: Luxurious Life at Sea

By Angela Betancourt Photography Courtesy of VanDutch VanDutch, the Dutch luxury yacht maker, is making waves in the boating world with their new VanDutch 75. As the flagship of their fleet, the new yacht features a large deck, pure lines, and a sleek interior design. The company says it will be the “most majestic member of the VanDutch family.” The VanDutch 75 has a high performance engine, can reach a max speed of 28-37 knots, and boasts a very smooth and discreetly quiet ride. Each one comes fully equipped and owners need only worry about what color they want their new yacht to be. The company’s Color Configurator helps make that an easier decision. The all white interior is spacious and elegant with three full cabins, three full baths, TV’s behind mirrors, and LCD switchable privacy glass in the main cabin. Instead of traditional windows, the VanDutch 75 has OLED screens inside that provide the owners and guests a live stream of their outside surroundings “It’s the next generation of yachting. We are taking a classic design and modernizing it,” said Nicholas Cardoza, VP of VanDutch Center Miami Beach. “It’s a boat for having fun and arriving in style.” Providing the ultimate luxury yachting experience is a top priority for this yacht and it’s at the core of the company’s overall success. “Our approach is not just solely centered on design, engineering and manufacturing,” said Anko Mast, CEO of VanDutch in a recent press release. “It is also centered on creativity, innovation and sustainability.” Since its founding in 2008, VanDutch has attracted the attention of yacht enthusiasts and celebrities around the world. The company prides itself on their dedication to craftsmanship and their ability to combine the latest technology, speed, and beauty in their designs. Their recreational yachts are now manufactured in the U.S. and are built to provide high performance capabilities, rapid acceleration, and exceptional cornering. Mindful of the environment, VanDutch yachts are created with eco-friendly products and are recognized as being 50% more sustainable than other yachts in the same class. For more information about VanDutch Yachts, please visit www.vandutch.com

Digital Edition, Fashion, Interviews, The Issue

Victoria Rafaeli: A Style Star is Born

By Katie Jackson Photographed by Danielle Margherite Victoria Rafaeli has certainly taken the blogosphere by storm. Launching her fashion blog “Victoria’s Vision” a mere three months ago, the professional photographer and former Big Brother Season 16 contestant has already accumulated hundreds of thousands of loyal readers eagerly awaiting her next post. For Rafaeli, style was always a passion, but with the exposure of Big Brother, Rafaeli was given a platform to launch one of the most successful fashion blogs in Miami, and in the country. After leaving Big Brother, Rafaeli received numerous letters from fans asking about her style. “They would ask me about specific outfits they took pictures of while I was on the show, and how they can recreate the look based on their body type,” says Rafaeli. After receiving such a large amount of style inquiries, Rafaeli decided to create a place where all of her fans could go and learn how to mimic her personal style. “I knew I had to share my passion and vision of fashion with the world and I welcomed ‘Victoria’s Vision!’” Three months later, Rafaeli’s blog became a bona fide brand. With beautifully curated personal style and beauty posts, as well as the occasional inside look at Miami’s premier lifestyle scene, it’s clearly evident why Rafaeli is such a hot commodity. But Rafaeli attributes every bit of her success to her readers. “I feel so blessed to have such loyal fans and supportive followers on social media. I’m happy that I get to share my passion with them every single day and am so thankful to see they appreciate what I do! They really keep me going every day.” Apart from blogging, Rafaeli also runs her own successful photography company, Victoria Rafaeli Photography, where she takes professional photographs for weddings and formal portraits. Starting the company at just 19 years old, Rafaeli adores creating lasting memories for her clients. “Capturing laughter, tears of happiness, or just pure love, that’s my job! And to see the joy on my clients’ faces when they see that image, that feeling is everything!” When she isn’t working, Rafaeli enjoys shopping and people watching in Miami Beach. “I personally love going to Lincoln Road to see all of the beautiful tourists who arrive here from all over the world,” says Rafaeli. “They really do inspire me to shop and I enjoy being surrounded by so many people from different cultures.” Rafaeli also likes to hangout in Brickell. “It’s always a fun place to mingle and get inspired by young professionals in different fields.” With the future of “Victoria’s Vision” looking very promising, readers can expect to see posts on Rafaeli’s favorite spring and summer trends, including head-to-toe white looks and backless maxi dresses. “A maxi is so timeless and comfortable, yet looks so chic,” says Rafaeli. Miami readers can also look forward to attending events hosted by Rafaeli during this year’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim. “I’ll be making fabulous announcements as the summer season approaches.”   Visit Victoria’s Vision at VictoriaRafaeliOfficial.com

Culinary, LIFESTYLE, MSM Online

Mother’s Day Recipe

By Justina Coronel Mouth-watering food recipes combined and infused with wine for Mother’s Day? I mean, wine not? These recipes are paired with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi wines and create a rich mixture of food and wines making your appetite crave for more. Over thirty years ago, Robert Mondavi’s goal was to establish a wine culture in America. In 1979, he established the Woodbridge Winery in California in order to make fruit-focused wines for everyday drinking. These recipes below are paired with jam and wine, a unique way to absorb both fruits into one palate. Recipe Courtesy of Woodbridge Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Strawberry & Chardonnay Jam Yield: About 2 pints Ingredients: 2 pounds ripe strawberries, hulled and halved 1 ½ cups sugar Zest of 1 lemon 1 cinnamon stick 2 tablespoons Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Chardonnay Directions: 1. Place a small plate in the freezer. 2. Add strawberries, sugar and lemon zest to a wide preserving pan.* Crush the mixture (a potato masher works well for this) to a pulp, or leave chunks of strawberries if you prefer. 3. Add the cinnamon stick, and heat the mixture over medium heat until you achieve a slow boil, about 20 minutes. At this point, add the Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Chardonnay and bring back to a slow boil. 4. Cook until the jam passes the cold-saucer test. Place a small amount of the jam on the plate that you placed in the freezer. After 30 seconds, nudge it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it is ready. If it is liquidy, continue to cook and try again every 5 minutes or so. 5. When jam is ready, remove the cinnamon stick and pour carefully into two pint jars or four half pint jars. 6. Store the jam in the refrigerator, and consume within two months. *A preserving pan can be any wide, heavy bottomed pot or pan. It’s important that it’s wide and tall so that the jam has plenty of room to boil. Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Strawberry & Chardonnay Jam Parfaits Yield: 4 parfaits Ingredients: 1 ½ cups Plain yogurt (your favorite brand) 1 ½ cups store bought Granola (your favorite brand) ½ Pint Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Strawberry & Chardonnay Jam Directions: 1. Gather four dishes or containers for your parfaits. 2. Layer the four ingredients about 1 tablespoon at a time, depending on the size of your container. Finish with fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of granola. 3. Serve with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Chardonnay. *Entertaining Tip: We love using ½ pint mason jars so that we can screw the lid on and pack them easily for a healthy, picnic perfect treat. These recipes are perfect to incorporate into your Mother’s Day celebrations. One thing for sure about this duo delicious combo is that mom will not, by any means… whine about it.

Beauty, Body, Health & Fitness, LIFESTYLE, MSM Online, Skin Care

Perfect Mother’s Day Gift: New Spa Treatments at the Lapis Spa at Fontainebleau

By Justina Coronel What better way to show your mom some Mother’s Day loving than a luxurious retreat at the two-level, 40,000-square-foot Lapis Spa at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach? Lapis has enhanced their fabulous spa menu with a new innovative set of treatments: the Ayurveda treatments. Ayurveda, meaning life and knowledge in Sanskrit, is one of the world’s oldest, natural sciences and whole healing systems practiced by millions in India. These treatments are all about restoring and enhancing the body’s well-being by reducing physical discomfort as they dispose body toxins and transport the body back into balance. The treatments use three oils and herbs that follow the body’s intuition and needs. They stimulate relaxation, rejuvenation, and detoxification; what a perfect combination! The Ayurvedic Rituals’ feature four treatments that compliment each other. The Abhyanga Massage is a massage with a continuous flow of warm herb-infused oils that bring balance back to the seven layers of the body. The Arundhati Five Star Treatment focuses on healing the most nerve endings of the body such as the hands, feet, and scalp. Sirodahra Zekhara Ritual is a hair and scalp treatment that increases blood circulation and encourages more sound sleep. And last but not least, the final service includes Avar Na Body Wraps, which stimulates exfoliation and produces rehydration to the skin. “We are dedicated to bringing guests thoughtfully innovative services that reflect the changing wellness industry, likewise, we seek opportunities to invigorate even the oldest traditions, like the Ayurvedic Rituals, so our guests are exposed to a selection of services appreciated around the world,” said Josie Feria, Director of Spa Operations. And after these refreshing and revitalizing treatments, your mom will definitely be thanking you and singing the tune, “Oh, oh oh, Sweet Child o’ Mine.” To reserve an appointment, please visit fontainebleau.com/lapis, call 866-750-4772 or email LapisSpa@fontainebleau.com.

Arts, Culture, Shows & Events, The Issue

Hello, Hausammann!

By Jessica Faroy Photography by Alex Medina Outside, men moved their hands: a sharp slap of the palm, a graceful gesture of the wrist, a swift stroke of the fingers. All leading to shoulder grasps, handshakes and texting exchanges. On the steps of the doorway these habitual movements made the Hausammann Gallery feel all the more welcoming. Just inside stood Cope2. Composed and concentrated, his hands swayed to their own movement. A spray can was held in his palm, and with his finger on the nozzle and his wrist moving in grace, he performed live art in his solo exhibition. On Saturday, March 14th, the Hausammann Gallery opened their doors to Wynwood. Owned by Frederico and Beatrice Hausammann, the third generation of the Hausammann lineage of Cortina, Italy, their partnership has now brought another gallery to Wynwood. The expansion and decade-long commitment is their way of showing an admiration for the preservation of art and the society it circles around. Known for being observers of contemporary art, their transition to another continent seems to be justified by the urban culture Wynwood offers artists. Regarding their move, Beatrice commented, “We want to be part of the street art scene and what better place than Wynwood to do that!” The growing art community is known for their graffiti, wall-paintings and galleries, all lining up to add to the 21st century contemporary art movement. With the time that the Hausammanns have been in Miami, it has proved to be a learning experience for them. “The people that we have met, have been friendly and we believe that the art scene will continue to grow in the future,” says Beatrice. With this growth in mind, the Hausammanns seem to want to tackle a particularly popular subject in contemporary art – street art. The gallery opening, featuring long time friend and great business connection, street artist Cope2, showed viewers the gallery’s interest in street-art and their attempts to have gallery selections “reflect modern culture.” However, with countless galleries and countless artistic expression, what exactly can the Hausammann Gallery offer Wynwood? According to Beatrice, “the gallery will not only contribute to charity with unique projects, but be an outlet for local artists to express themselves. [Wynwood is] a strong art community, with some artists making great strides in the global art community.” After the grand opening of the gallery, spectators were left questioning future projects, exhibitions and collaborations. The Hausammanns did not budge. The only insight they gave was an alluring “stay tuned.” To those familiar with the Hausammann Gallery in Cortina, expect to see some parallel projects. As for those familiar with local artists, Beatrice revealed interest in street artists Cale and Atomik, elaborating, “We were lucky to have met Cale, an international renowned artist from Los Angeles, and Atomik, a Miami based artist, that we are going to feature in our upcoming art fair in Germany.” The Hausammann Gallery is located at 251 NW 23rd Street, Miami, FL 33127 For more information on the Hausammann Gallery, please visit www.HausammannGallery.com

Culinary, LIFESTYLE, MSM Online

Mother’s Day at the Fontainebleau Hotel

By Gisel Habibnejad Mother’s Day is quickly approaching, and if you’re still searching for the right gift the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach might have what you’re looking for. Indulge the mother figures in your life with brunch at one of the two exclusive restaurants in this luxurious hotel. Come Mother’s Day, landing on May 10th this year, Fontainebleau is hosting specials you simply cannot resist. At $85 per adult ($44.50 for children under 12, free under 4), Scarpetta will include a buffet style Italian brunch from 11am-3pm. This includes a live carving station and your choice of cocktails, such as a Bloody Mary, Bellini, or signature cocktail. Dishes include: A selection of Italian meats & cheese House smoked salmon Roasted sirloin of beef (at the carving station) Short rib agnolotti with horseradish breadcrumbs Porchetta, risotto, scallop benedict Creamy polenta & truffled mushroom fricassee With chocolate panna cotta Tiramisu & zabaglione Also from 11:30am-3:00pm, StripSteak by Michael Mina, the hotel’s modern steakhouse, will host a brunch special at $68 per adult ($34 for children under 12, free under 4). The special includes a choice of appetizer, entree, and a desert buffet with many delicious options to choose from. Dishes include: Braised bacon with English peas Asian puree & black pepper glaze American Wagyu flat iron steak Butter poached Maine lobster Brioche french toast For more information or to make reservations, please visit fontainebleau.com/mothersday

Health & Fitness, Health & Fitness, The Issue

Vixen Workout: Finding Your Inner Strength

By Gisel Habibnejad Photography by Alex Medina Famed Miami workout sensation, Vixen Workout, rapidly rose to the top in the fitness world in the last few years. Janet Jones, “Commander-in-Chief” of the Vixen Army, had no idea the potential of her idea when she took a risk by leaving everything conventional behind to pursue a happier and better lifestyle. Her inspiration has touched women across the country because she has anchored her real emotions to help empower other women and mothers in the work force. Janet has always had a passion for dance. Her résumé includes the Miami Heat Dance Team in 2005. After she left the team, she hopelessly fell into a corporate job because she felt it was the standard thing to do. Like many women, she subconsciously fell into what usually becomes a “zombie life” – dedicating your entire being to work and the household. While she really loves being a mother, she felt trapped by this routine and found herself emotionless as her light faded away. When she was laid off from her conventional job, she was left with nothing but 13 cents in her bank account and a newborn baby to support. With much courage and effort, she finally decided to take action. Something most people fear and shy away from. She then turned to her first love: dance. Janet channeled all her energy towards this passion and finally began to feel like herself again. She knew she wanted to help other women channel their inner beauty, too. “Abandoning yourself does not make you a better mother, wife, sister, daughter, etc. You need to take care of yourself first in order to take better care of everyone around you.” With the support and love of her family, the Vixen Workout was born. The goal of the class is to make every woman feel like they are in a nightclub with their friends dancing the night away, while unknowingly burning 1,000 calories per class (400-600 for beginners). The ultimate Vixen Army woman is “a woman who has found her light (or reignited it) and makes every woman around her see herself in the best possible light,” shares the Miami native. The hour long classes are made for every type of body shape and fitness need, whether you aim to lose weight or just simply want to tone up. However, the classes cannot be fully effective without a healthy diet, as any other workout routine. Speaking of nightclubs, Janet shares her favorite memory so far with Vixen Workout is when she took her class to LIV Nightclub, which sold out within 24 hours. The club was packed with 300 women of her Vixen Army. Every month, the Vixen Army can expect Janet to create new choreography and playlists. She produces routines that are easy to pick-up, whether you are a professional dancer or have never taken a dance class before in your life. With 102 choreographed routines to date, she has no plans of stopping any time soon. In August, she will be launching a nationwide certification program. So, how does this fitness maven juggle her business life with her personal life? She balances out her schedule with work, family, and fun. If she finds herself with one busy workweek, she will dedicate the next week to her family, home, and personal time. For her, family comes first and she would never let anything get in the way of that. She also shared some advice for those who have lost their light: “Each one of us is here to do something amazing. Listen to the voice inside not what ‘society’ tells you to do. The voice inside is your connection to your true self. Keep dreaming!” With the success of the Vixen Workout, Janet is happy to say she has found her light and happiness once again. “I have had the opportunity to change lives by doing what I love. I feel as if it is now my responsibility to affect as many women as possible.” For more information on the Vixen Workout, please visit vixenworkout.com

Arts, Culture, MSM Online

A & E Pavilion Performance: Calling All Curious Individuals

By Michèle Bigler Ladies and gentlemen of Miami were cordially invited to attend an intimate gathering organized by Canvas and Miami Independent Thinkers in honor of the up-and-coming Arts & Entertainment district and the cultural atmosphere that it promises. Tuesday, May 5th 2015 marked the final show to a three-date circus burlesque ensemble.  Wondering what a burlesque circus entails? Then you’re in for a treat! The dancers rarely distinguished the audience as such by immediately tearing down the traditional fourth wall commonly associated with thespianism. Somewhere in between you had the pleasure of observing a sensual ballerina on roller-skates, tassel twirling lessons, an acrobat at his best, gender bending performances and a whole lot of provocation. But, not to worry, the satirical rendition managed to apply a seamless combination of mockery and elegance. The performers approached common taboos centered on sexuality with sultry humor, which proved to be quite refreshing. Furthermore, the ringmaster that ran the show magnificently goaded the audience between scenes. He introduced an early act with a threatening chuckle as he presented, Milena Straczynski, whom he tauntingly menaced right into her enactment: “you’re never going to get out of the circus, you were born in the circus and you’re going to die in the circus.” The entire show transcended traditional definitions of “normal” with the obvious intention of making everyone feel welcome in the up and coming Arts & Entertainment district. Irrefutably, the underlying message encrypted in the Pavilion Vaudeville show is that A&E is the place to live because you can be anything.

Beauty, Business, Cover Stories, Fashion, Interviews, LIFESTYLE, MSM Online, The Issue

Adrienne Bosh: The Ultimate Cheerleader for Women – Cover Shoot

Interviewed by KATIE JACKSON, Photographed by IMANI OGDEN, Wardrobe Styling by BRIANNA AGOSTO, Hair & Makeup by TAMIA EVERETT FOR TAMIASTYLES, Location: MSM STUDIOS, EDGEWATER DISTRICT Excited for her cover photo shoot, Adrienne Bosh stepped into MSM studios and posed as photographer Imani Ogden snapped her picture. Music from Bosh’s personal iTunes library played over the speakers, and after a series of photos, she began to dance and laugh, lighting up both the camera and the room with her genuine warmth and positivity. This happy and positive attitude is what helped make Bosh the phenomenon she is today. As the wife of Miami Heat center and power forward Chris Bosh, mother of three, business owner, blogger, party planner, and active philanthropist, Bosh is so much more than meets the eye. Born in Indiana, Bosh says her Midwestern upbringing provided her with a solid ground of morals that make her the person she is today. Raised by a single mother, she learned at a young age the importance of independence, a quality she hopes to now instill in her own children. “I love encouraging my children to be self-sufficient, and to become whatever it is they want to be,” says Bosh. As a mother to Dylan Skye and Jackson, and stepmother to Trinity, Bosh feels that motherhood has enriched her life in every sense. “My kids have taught me amazing patience, and they have taught me the importance of living in the moment.” With her family as her number one priority, Bosh has also managed to create a movement so powerful that she has deeply impacted other families’ lives. In addition to holding the position of Vice President of Team Tomorrow Inc., a charitable organization founded by her husband, Bosh has made it her mission to encourage and empower women everywhere. She hosts an annual Mother’s Day brunch called Today I Can, which treats new and expectant mothers to a day of pampering and baby supplies. She has also chaired the Dress for Success Gala, an event that provides professional clothing and career development strategies to unemployed women in South Florida.  Apart from her philanthropic spirit, Bosh strives to provide multiple outlets for women to seek out when they are in need of fashion and health advice, laughter, or overall inspiration. Starting a blog on her website, AdrienneBosh.com, Bosh shares her own personal struggles and triumphs with her readers. “I feel like as a young woman, I didn’t have a lot of women share their secrets with me, their heartbreaks, their sad times, or their struggles,” says Bosh. “I just had to learn the hard way. I feel like we can do better as women to help equip the next woman sooner, faster, better. Those five minutes you take to talk to a young girl could change her life, and I just want to be able to do that.” But perhaps her biggest venture yet will be the opening of her retail boutique and event venue, Sparkle and Shine Darling. Opening in May, Bosh has put her heart and soul into creating a space where women can gather to celebrate each other. After her husband and closest girlfriends threw her a beautiful Parisian themed party in Paris for her 29th birthday, Bosh felt inspired to create a similar experience for Miami women. “My girlfriends spent months shopping to find these items from vintage stores and different themed stores. But they never found one store that sold all of these items,” says Bosh. “So when I came back from Paris, I really wanted to create a place where women could not only shop for items to celebrate these women, but also provide a place where they can have a beautiful occasion and party like the one my friends had given me.” In providing multiple themes for any occasion, including Breakfast at Tiffany’s, garden tea party, Gatsby champagne, and a Parisian rendezvous, Bosh wants to provide a space for customers to celebrate birthdays, graduations, baby and bridal showers, bachelorette parties and so much more. As far as the boutique’s name, Bosh wanted to incorporate her love of “sparkling and shining,” while also receiving a little help from her husband. “My whole theory behind sparkling and shining is that if you are totally confident, and totally okay with how you are shining and sparkling in life, then you will succeed. But I added darling because that’s my husband’s nickname for me. He’s from Texas and he’s very southern. So he always says ‘whatever you want to eat, darling,’ or ‘whatever you want, darling.’ So the darling came from him,” says Bosh. “At the end of the day, I want my darlings to feel the same way when my husband calls me darling. I want my darlings to feel loved, supported, encouraged, and confident. Because when my husband calls me darling, I feel all of those things.” Bosh also envisions her boutique as not only a place to host and celebrate occasions, but to throw events to bring communities of women together. “My goal is to have this as a space for any event meant to encourage women,” says Bosh. “Whether it’s a women’s entrepreneur night, a book club night, or new moms’ night, I want to provide a space where women can come together and support each other,” says Bosh. “It’s much more than a store, it’s a movement.” As Bosh’s interview comes to a close, she makes sure to thank every person in the room before leaving, showing that she truly lives and breathes everything she encourages. An example for women not only living in Miami, but women everywhere, Bosh is the epitome of a darling whose sparkle and shine will never go out. To follow Adrienne Bosh’s blog, visit http://adriennebosh.com For more information on Sparkle and Shine Darling, visit http://sparkleandshinedarling.com. Follow the boutique on Instagram @sparkleandshinedarling & on Twitter @SparkleDecorMia View May/June Issue Here View Online Issue Here

Events, MSM Online, Shows & Events

Meet Adrienne Bosh!

PRIVATE MEETING OR LUNCH WITH ADRIENNE BOSH AT HER NEW BOUTIQUE In support of the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship South Florida, the highest bidder will enjoy a private meeting or lunch with Adrienne Bosh at her exclusive boutique, Sparkle & Shine Darling. Mother, wife, entrepreneur, and active philanthropist – just a few words to describe the inspiring Adrienne Bosh. The ultimate “mompreneur” can be seen at fundraisers and charities all across Miami. An important role she plays is Vice President of Team Tomorrow Inc., which was founded by her husband, Miami Heat player – Chris Bosh. The nonprofit organization encourages and supports the livelihood of children and families of our beloved city. They are also happy to be participating in this year’s PSA for the Chapman Partnership, which will raise awareness for the homeless community of Miami-Dade County and Prevent Child Abuse America (PCAA) to support National Child Abuse Prevention Month. In addition, through her movement “Today I Can,” Adrienne devotes her work to the empowerment of women; she is a firm believer that women should motivate each other and rise together.  Her latest venture includes opening her highly anticipated boutique, Sparkle & Shine Darling, through which the highest bidder will meet Adrienne at and also enjoy a gift basket with special goodies from the boutique.  DETAILS: Auction Ends: Tuesday, May 5th at 3:00pm Valid for 2 people Approximate duration: 1 hour When: Expires 1 year from the close of auction Travel & accommodations not included For more details and information, please visit  https://www.charitybuzz.com/catalog_items/790901 For more information about Adrienne Bosh and her philanthropy, please visit  www.AdrienneBosh.com

MSM Online, Traveler

Living Out a Fantasy in Tuscany

By Dawn Wilson If you have ever fantasized about living in a real life Tuscan Village, now you can at Toscana Resort Castelfalfi. Located in the center of Tuscany sits Toscana Resort Castelfalfi. Life in Castelfalfi is something straight out of a fairytale. Here is where you will find an 800-year-old castle with an entire village built around it. In this village resort, the authenticity of Tuscany is preserved because only a small amount of the land is approved for development. While the architecture remains reminiscent of old Tuscany, much of the amenities offered are in keeping with today’s modern society. Toscana Resort is a great place for home base while exploring the Medieval and Renaissance cities that are close by, such as, Siena, Florence and Pisa. It is slated to become a #1 destination for world travelers who want to experience all that this beautiful side of the world has to offer. Currently at Toscana Resort, you will find a 31-room boutique hotel, La Tabaccaia, which was formerly a tobacco factory. It offers all of the modern amenities of a five star hotel, WIFI, en-suite bathroom, LCD televisions with satellite, air conditioning and a mini-bar. Also, available during your time at the resort, you will be able to savor the cuisine of an authentic Tuscan restaurant, Trattoria II Rosmarino, enjoy swimming in the resort style swimming pool, receive spa treatments, shop and take in 18-holes of golf on the mountain course or 9-holes on the Lake course. Imagine doing all of this while living out a childhood fantasy of living in a Tuscan Village. A vacation in Castelfalfi at the Toscana Resort would be a dream that you wouldn’t want to wake up from. It is beyond your imagination. You have to experience it for yourself in order to believe it actually does exist. To make reservations or for more information, please visit http://www.castelfalfi.co.uk

Culinary, Culture, MSM Online

Oculto Manor: Expect the Unexpected

By Stephan Useche Thursday night took a different turn for Oculto Manor’s exclusive guests, when they had to choose which door to enter. Whether they entered the “8 p.m.,” “12 a.m.,” or the “4 a.m.” door, they all had an unexpected experience. Oculto, a lager blend beer aged in tequila barrels, transformed Soho Studios in Wynwood to celebrate its launch event. Guests had a taste of the mixed drink from the moment they stepped inside of this experience. Once they picked a door, Oculto Manor’s guests were walked into unexpected scenarios with live acting performances. The 4 a.m. door led to a limousine scene with two women dressed in wedding gowns acting and also jamming to “White Wedding” from Billy Idol. Then, the 4 a.m. crowd was taken out of the limousine and walked into a “house party” scene, where they were catered with popcorn, corndogs, brownies, chips and of course more Oculto beer. Once they were taken out of the party, Oculto Manor’s guests arrived to the final room, which had DJ Uchi on set and a musical performance from Little Dragon. Notable guests included Ariane Andrews, WWE Diva and of E! Network’s Total Divas, and Cedric Gervais, famed house DJ. Oculto Manor will be open for one more weekend for those who haven’t experienced it and want to find out what experiences awaits inside of the other two doors.

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