Naples, FL Review: A Golden Life Getaway

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An invite to a friend’s home in Cape Coral and a desperate need to get away last-minute for the summer led my partner and me to Naples, Florida last month. While I had visited Marco Island a few years back (check out my review), my hope was to return to this beautiful southwest Florida region again to check out Naples. Opportunity presented itself, and I took my shot!

It’s worth mentioning that Naples and Cape Coral, like Marco Island, aren’t very racially diverse, but that didn’t stop me from choosing them as destinations. I’d heard great things about the beaches and food, which, for a beach bum foodie like myself, is really all I need!

Our home for a few days was the beautiful boutique AC Hotel by Marriott Naples 5th Avenue. One of the main reasons we chose this hotel was the location. It was close to pretty much everywhere we wanted to go. Secondly, they offered a cute (and free, I might add) hotel shuttle that took us almost everywhere we wanted to go, including the beach!

But the amenities didn’t stop there. Upon arrival, we were greeted with glasses of champagne during their daily “champagne happy hour.” (Side note: They were even generous enough to let us take our champagne to go upon departure. My kind of people!)

The standard room was spacious and included a couch and long bench that provided extra seating and storage.

Another major selling point was the rooftop pool with its sprawling deck and abundant sunshine. I’ll add that the pool water temperature can make or break my experience at a property, and I’m happy to report they did not disappoint. I was able to walk right in and enjoy my bath water in peace. (smile)

If you’re like me and prefer to spend your first night in relax mode, the hotel restaurant was perfect. Located right off the pool area, this swanky, reasonably priced spot offered delicious bites and beautiful scenery that almost had us going back the next day.

I know many of us are breaking up with salad these days but that grilled caesar salad was the truth! The wild mushroom flatbread was just as delicious.

Beach Days + Good Eats

While the hotel shuttle could have taken us to a nearby beach, we opted for a 15-20 minute Uber ride to Vanderbilt Beach for lunch at The Turtle Club. I’m so glad we did! This beachfront restaurant offered one of my favorite dining experiences of the trip. Food just tastes better when an ocean view and breeze come with it.

The view from our table. It was perfect.
I know, I know another salad but I couldn’t resist street corn caesar salad and it was scrumptious!
This might have been some of the best calamari I’ve had in my life.

Had we known we wouldn’t want to leave, we would have reserved beach chairs on the same property, just yards away. Instead, Cabana Dan’s was only a short five-minute walk and offered lounge chairs and beach snacks. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, though, opt for The Vanderbilt, but make sure you book in advance!

Our final two dining experiences in Naples were both top-notch, but for very different reasons.

Photos don’t even do this place justice. The outside terrace, where we dined was just as beautiful but hard to capture in the dark.

Not only were the decor and ambiance at Blackbird a whole sexy vibe, but the culinary experience was on another level. I loved their nontraditional takes on Asian cuisine, like the smoked brisket fried rice and Gabby’s orange chicken, along with their unique and delicious craft cocktails.

Our brunch experience, just a short free shuttle ride away, was at a quaint neighborhood favorite called The Rooster Food + Drink. As a benny lover, they had me at blackened snapper Benedict. It was a first for me, but definitely not the last. My partner enjoyed perfectly cooked chicken and waffles, and everything was fresh and delicious.

It’s also worth mentioning that one of the best meals we had was at another local favorite and true “hole-in-the-wall,” Grouper & Chips. Trust me, what they lack in ambiance, they more than make up for in flavor. The Fisherman’s Platter had everything I could desire in fresh, fried seafood: lobster, grouper, scallops, and shrimp. Oh my!

Sometimes You Just Need to Go

If there was one takeaway from this trip, it’s that every getaway doesn’t need months of planning, a packed itinerary, or even a special occasion attached to it. Sometimes you realize you need a change of scenery, an opportunity presents itself, and you simply say yes.

Naples gave us a few days of sunshine, really good food, warm water, ocean breezes, and the chance to slow down and enjoy each other. And sometimes, that’s more than enough.

I’m learning that part of living this Golden Life is recognizing those little windows of opportunity when they appear and giving yourself permission to walk through them. Take the trip. Order the seafood platter. Sit by the water a little longer. Drink the champagne. ☺️

Because life doesn’t always give us opportunities to experience joy before the celebration. Sometimes being here, being grateful, and having the opportunity to enjoy it is reason enough.

Until the next adventure…live well, travel often, and stay golden.

For more golden life ventures, visit www.goldenlifeventures.com. 

The Lost Art of Being Still

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Recently, I received an invitation to visit a friend’s vacation home in southwest Florida. Of course, I jumped at the opportunity for a little R&R because, to say the least, it was long overdue.

What I soon realized was that God beautifully orchestrated this time of rest because I clearly had a hard time setting it aside on my own.

While I’ve gotten much better over the years at not treating every empty space on my calendar as an opportunity to squeeze in more work, I still haven’t quite mastered the art of scheduling stillness.

If you’re an overachieving, productivity enthusiast like me, an unscheduled moment can quickly become a mental to-do list. Even when you’re sitting still, your mind is asking, What should I be doing right now? What could I be getting done?

In the workplace, that mindset can be a strength.

For your soul? Not so much.

Our bodies need rest. That’s a fact. But I’ve realized that rest and stillness aren’t always the same thing.

Back to my vacation.

I intentionally didn’t pack every day with activities, even though I was visiting a part of Florida I’d never experienced before. (Don’t worry…I’ll share those adventures in another post!)

This trip wasn’t about checking attractions off a list. It was about allowing myself to simply…be.

And honestly? That was harder than I expected.

So what does it really mean to be still?

To me, stillness is intentionally quieting the constant need to produce, consume, fix, plan, or perform. It’s choosing presence over productivity. It’s allowing your mind, body, and spirit the space to simply exist without feeling guilty that you’re “not doing enough.”

Biblically, stillness goes even deeper.

Psalm 46:10 reminds us,

“Be still, and know that I am God.”

Notice God doesn’t say, Be busy and know.

Or, Be productive and know.

Or even, Be entertained and know.

He says, be still.

Because stillness creates room for trust.

It reminds us that God is in control even when we stop moving.

What stillness gives us

I came home realizing that stillness offers gifts we often don’t realize we’re missing.

Clarity.

Have you ever noticed how your best ideas rarely come while you’re rushing from one thing to the next? When the mental noise quiets, things that once felt confusing suddenly become clear. Stillness helps us separate what’s urgent from what’s actually important.

God’s voice.

God is always speaking. The question is whether we’ve made enough space to hear Him.

When every spare moment is filled with podcasts, social media, television, emails, or notifications, His gentle whispers can easily get drowned out. Stillness creates space to listen.

Renewed energy.

Real renewal isn’t just physical.

You can sleep eight hours and still wake up mentally exhausted.

Stillness restores something deeper. It gives your mind permission to stop performing, your heart permission to breathe, and your soul permission to reconnect with the One who created it.

We don’t have to fill every quiet moment.

Many of us don’t actually know how to rest because we’ve forgotten how to be still.

The moment life slows down, we instinctively reach for our phones. We scroll. We binge another episode. We answer one more email. We fill the silence before it has a chance to do its work.

Those things aren’t inherently bad. But they’re often distractions masquerading as rest. The truth is, our minds and bodies aren’t always craving more stimulation. Sometimes they’re simply craving stillness.

This week, I’m practicing something different.

I’m resisting the urge to fill every empty space.

I’m sitting at the table a little longer after I eat.

Watching the sunset without photographing it.

Leaving my phone in another room.

Listening more than talking.

Praying without rushing to the next thing.

Because I’ve realized that some of God’s greatest work happens when I stop trying so hard to do mine.

Maybe that’s your invitation, too. Not to do more or become more productive. But simply to be still.

You might be surprised by what you hear…and by how much lighter you feel.

For more golden life ventures visit www.goldenlifeventures.com.

An Unexpected Masterpiece

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Some of the most meaningful moments in life aren’t planned. They’re stumbled upon.

That’s exactly how I found myself walking through the doors of the Studio Museum in Harlem. I didn’t even know it existed until a friend suggested that my mom and I stop by during a recent trip to New York, where we were in town to see another friend perform at Carnegie Hall. What was meant to be a quick visit turned into one of the most memorable, soul-filling experiences of the entire trip.

An image featured in the museum of the original Studio Museum in Harlem in 1968

Originally founded in the late 1960s and recently reopened in a new space this past November, the museum spans six expansive floors. Each level tells a story, layered, intentional, and deeply rooted in the richness of Black artistry. From photography to paintings to striking three-dimensional works, every corner invites you to pause, reflect, and feel.

And feel I did.

It was one of those rare experiences that manages to be awe-inspiring, overwhelming, and soul-soothing all at once. The kind where you find yourself moving slower, reading more closely, and taking it all in just a little deeper. There was something sacred about it, like walking through a living archive of creativity, culture, and legacy.

What made it even more special for me was discovering a familiar thread woven into the story. One of the museum’s greatest contributors is Peggy Cooper Cafritz, a philanthropist, art collector, and educator with deep ties to D.C., and someone my family had the privilege of knowing. Seeing her influence reflected in such a powerful space felt personal. It was a beautiful reminder of how impact travels, how seeds planted in one place can bloom far beyond it.

Each floor offered something new, but the throughline was clear: this was more than a museum. It was a celebration. A preservation. A declaration that the stories, perspectives, and creative expressions of artists of African descent, locally, nationally, and internationally, matter, and always have.

I left feeling full. Inspired. Grateful.

Grateful for the friend who made the recommendation.
Grateful for the time with my mom.
Grateful for the reminder that sometimes, the best parts of a journey are the ones you never planned.

If you ever find yourself in Harlem, consider this your sign.

You might just stumble onto something that stays with you.

For more golden life ventures, visit www.goldenlifeventures.com.

Miami Beach Eats: The Good, The Bad & The Delicious

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There’s something about Miami Beach that always resets me. Maybe it’s the sunshine. Maybe it’s the waves. Maybe it’s the way good food just hits different when you’re on vacation celebrating someone you love. Whatever it is, Miami remains one of my foodie happy places, and this month’s trip reminded me exactly why.

Between a little rest, a little reflection, and a whole lot of eating, I discovered three spots worth talking about—two longtime favorites and one brand-new love that officially has me in a chokehold. Let’s get into it.

A New Favorite: Sazon Cubano

How did I come to Miami all these years and not know about Sazon Cubano? This was my first time stepping into this colorful, authentic Cuban spot for lunch, and let me tell you—I was instantly mad at myself for not coming sooner.

The vibe is classic Miami meets abuela’s kitchen: warm, lively, and filled with the aroma of garlic, citrus, and love. I ordered the seafood paella, the churrasco (marinated skirt steak grilled to perfection), and a classic mojito. I loved every single thing. The paella was loaded, flavorful, and comforting. The churrasco was tender, juicy, and seasoned just right. And that mojito? Exactly what a mojito should be: crisp, bright, and absolutely refreshing.

Sazon Cubano is officially on my “must return for dinner + live music” list. 10/10 would recommend.

The Letdown: Front Porch Café

Whew… this one hurt a little.

Front Porch Café used to be one of my Miami staples…the kind of place with a benedict you dream about long after vacation ends. So imagine my disappointment when I walked in and realized the magic was gone.

They’ve moved several blocks down Ocean Drive into a smaller location, and unfortunately, the quality went with the square footage. I ordered the crab cake benedict I once loved, only to receive lightly seasoned poached eggs perched on tiny crab cakes that were overcooked and underseasoned… with no English muffin. Where do they do that? My partner’s chicken and waffles were better – at least the bacon was cooked perfectly – but the chicken was not crispy. The audacity.

The service was slow, the energy was off, and even the bathrooms looked run-down. It just wasn’t the Front Porch I remembered, and that’s never fun to say about a place that once brought you joy.

Ending Strong: Call Me Gaby

Thankfully, Miami never lets me leave on a sad culinary note, and Call Me Gaby came through like a champ for my partner’s birthday dinner.

I love the eccentric decor
And the soft lighting was a vibe

This restaurant remains one of the most charming, romantic spots in South Beach. Perfect for date nights, girls’ nights, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something delicious and beautifully done.

We ordered the Rita pizza, and let me just say: this might be one of the freshest, most flavorful pizzas I’ve ever had in my life. Truffle burrata, bosco mushrooms, sautéed bell peppers, prosciutto di Parma, shaved parmesan… it was luxurious, indulgent, and worth every bite.

Love how they provide the check in a Campbell’s soup can

We also tried the clam linguine (not as amazing as last time but still solid), the pappardelle bolognese (which we switched to bucatini), and a side of perfectly cooked asparagus. Chef’s kisses were in full effect.

Final Bite

Miami Beach never disappoints, even when one meal does. This trip reminded me of the joy of discovering new favorites, revisiting old ones, and savoring every moment in between. From mojitos to mushrooms to memories with my favorite people, it was exactly the reset I needed.

Until next time, Foodie Heaven.

For more golden life ventures, visit www.goldenlifeventures.com.

A Taste of Heaven on a Plate: Ossobuco Restaurant Review

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There’s something sacred about a meal that makes you pause mid-bite… not because you’re full, but because you’re floored. That’s exactly what happened during a recent dinner at Ossobuco Steakhouse in Miami, where indulgence meets intention, and every dish feels like a love letter to your senses.

A little miscommunication had them thinking it was my bday
That’s ok because I celebrate my milestone bdays all year 🙂

Before I get fully into the food, let me first mention that this delightful restaurant is nestled in my favorite neighborhood of the Miami region (outside of the beach, of course), Wynwood. It is charming, artsy, and full of dope restaurants. During a recent last-minute and fully necessary getaway to Miami Beach, I ventured away from my trusty faves in the area for a night, and needless to say…I now have a new addition to the rotation.

From the very first bite, this meal had a message…and y’all know I love when life speaks through the little things.

Let’s start at the beginning: wild mushrooms sautéed to perfection, with a perfectly poached egg atop practically winked at me and welcomed me to the palate-pleasing party. And just when I thought it couldn’t get any more luxurious, the brioche croutons sprinkled throughout offered a buttery contrast that was absolutely divine.

Before mixing
After mixing

Then came the main event: a juicy, 16 oz prime New York strip steak, grilled just right, served with a delightful chimichurri sauce that had the nerve to be both bold and balanced. Every bite was seasoned just right, tender, and full of “this is what I came for” energy. Because after all, we were at a steakhouse. 

Perfection on a plate
The torch to melt the garlic butter at the table was a nice touch…

As I took my first bite of the wagyu fat potatoes, I promptly patted myself on the back for choosing the perfect accompaniment to that gorgeous piece of meat. Crispy on the outside, buttery-soft on the inside, these potatoes definitely deserved their own praise report.

Here’s what struck me: this meal wasn’t just good. It was a moment. A reminder that even in the whirlwind of daily responsibilities, there is joy to be found in slowing down and savoring. Not just food…but conversations, atmosphere, laughter, and the art of being fully present in the midst of greatness.

So if you ever find yourself in Miami, treat yourself. Book the table. Order the mushrooms. Don’t skip the steak. And let the wagyu potatoes minister to your soul. You deserve heaven right here on earth.

If you’ll be in the Miami region for awhile, check out my other reviews on area eats at Foodie Heaven Pt 2 and Review: KYU Miami.

For more golden life ventures visit www.goldenlifeventures.com.

Foodie Heaven Part 2

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If you’re new here chances are you haven’t met my inner fat girl. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Leslie and I’m a foodie.

I find this crazy to say, but eight years ago I wrote a blog post entitled “Foodie Heaven” about my experiences with the South Beach restaurant scene. Needless to say, I have been way beyond overdue for a Part 2. For one, more than half the restaurants I reviewed no longer exist. More importantly, many other dope restaurants are worthy of a Golden Life Musing.

On my most recent trip to Miami Beach, I ventured off the beaten path of my go-to restaurants in the heart of SoBe and boy am I glad I did! Here are six new restaurants to check out the next time you’re in town that are sure to delight your foodie senses too.

Before I hop into those, it’s worth noting that I did return to my all-time favorite KYU, which recently reopened after a nearly 18-month closure due to a remodel. This hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Wynwood neighborhood in Miami, is a must-visit! My Golden Life Musing review from 2019 says it all. You’re welcome.

Oceanside Hotel Tavern: This quaint, American fare restaurant across the street from my home for the week in the mid-beach area of Miami Beach quickly became my Cheers. I stumbled upon it on my way to Starbucks one morning and the rest was history. My first meal was a simple shrimp scampi with a side of roasted vegetables, but the taste was anything but simple. I devoured every single bite. The brunch menu caught my eye the following day and the salmon benedict did not disappoint. I kept going back and inviting others, which allowed me to try more delectable items on the menu including the mussels in garlic wine sauce and the healthy but appetizing power bowl. It’s also worth noting that the excellent service (despite bad reviews) and adorable patio perfect for people-watching also contributed to my adoration of this little restaurant.

Silverlake Bistro: This unassuming American fare bistro located in the Miami Beach neighborhood of Normandy Isles has a little something for any foodie. But if you’re a cheeseburger lover, you’ve found your home. My mom, who’s a bit of a cheeseburger connoisseur, got me hooked and I haven’t looked back. Everything about this traditional smash burger cooked to order is delightful, including the special sauce. Paired with the truffle fries, it’s nothing short of perfection. The Brussels sprouts simply prepared with a bit of sriracha, aioli, and chives were absolutely delicious. This restaurant is tiny, but the food packs a powerful punch!

Limoncello: This delightful authentic Italian restaurant in the heart of South Beach had me at lemon. I love just about everything lemon-inspired or flavored so this restaurant quickly became a favorite. Considering seabass is my absolute favorite fish, when I heard the catch of the day was branzino, my choice was clear. The preparation of the catch of the day was top-notch. As the branzino is cooked in a large crust of sea salt, they bring the whole fish out to the table for a big reveal presentation involving fire, alcohol, spoons, and knives. It was all very fancy and I was here for all of it! In addition to the delicious fare, the energy and vibe of this place was very lively and welcoming. Tip: Sit outside. The inside is nowhere near as charming as the outdoor eating area.

Salt Cafe: This delightful, vibrant restaurant also in the heart of South Beach does not just have good food, it is also perfect for people-watching. The charming outdoor patio has abundant seating and fans that make it comfortable to sit outside. Admittedly, I was not happy about brunch ending at noon, but the mushroom truffle pizza made up for it all. In a word, it was delectible. Considering that I had my mouth set on the crabcake benedict with spinach, a return visit is necessary!

Tanuki South Beach: Admittedly, this modern Asian restaurant was my least favorite of all the new restaurants, but there were some bright spots here! As they specialized in sushi, of course we had to try two of the sushi dishes – the dynamite crab roll (which surprisingly was served warm) and the truffled yellowtail. I enjoyed them both, but there were mixed reviews at the table. The rock shrimp and the Brussels sprouts were the best on the menu, with the butterfly chicken wings coming in second, prepared with an Asian glaze. The grilled corn with shisito butter looked and sounded promising but fell flat unfortunately, as it lacked flavor. The chocolate molten cake made up for it, as it was arguably the best tasting dish we tried.

Michael’s Genuine:  I saved the best for last, but a warning. Do not visit this restaurant if you are pinching pennies. Let me just say I’m grateful for rich friends! Every single bite I had at this restaurant located in the delightful Design District of Miami was absolutely delicious. Their website says that they provide fresh seasonal ingredients and warm hospitality, which could not be more accurate. I recommend if you are going with friends do family style so you can taste as many items as possible. I didn’t think I could have a truffle mushroom pizza that was any better than Salt Cafe, but I was pleasantly proven wrong. Other dishes to try include the tuna carpaccio, spiced lamb & charred eggplant (served as a hummus consistency), and the roasted cauliflower shawarma. Even the craft cocktails and desserts were top notch…Chef’s kiss!

When in New York

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It had been several years since I made it up to New York City. A friend’s movie filming and another friend’s big promotion were as good of excuses as any to get back to the City that Never Sleeps. Any time I’ve visited, no matter what the occasion, as a foodie I couldn’t help but indulge in the city’s dynamic culinary scene, and this time was no different. 

The first stop on this trip was a delightful little Italian restaurant in the heart of Soho called Mamo. My dear friend knowing my foodie appetite and affinity for Italian food booked us a table, and it did not disappoint.

If you are a seafood lover, this restaurant is a must-try! But before I get to the food, what was most notable upon entering the restaurant was its warm and homey, yet elegant, upscale feel. The old-school movie posters, soft lighting, and cozy bar on the first floor offered a unique charm that was undeniable.

For an appetizer, we started with the Insalata di polpo e ceci (octopus salad), which included chickpeas, tomatoes, cherry peppers, and basil leaves. Delicioso! It was so fresh you would think they plucked that octopus right out of the sea.

Normally I would have gone for what my friend ordered, which was the angel hair with shrimp and pistachios. (I had a bite and it was yummy). But when I saw the fish of the day on the specials menu, they had me at branzino. This succulent seabass was served in a lemon butter sauce and fresh herbs. This fish for two (thanks mom for sharing) was accompanied by a fresh garden salad with a simple but delightful vinaigrette. Chef’s kiss!

Considering that Mamo also has a location in Miami and I tend to make it down there more often, a visit to the Sunshine State’s location is definitely afoot! You know, for research purposes and all (insert smile here). 

The next day we headed to another restaurant with a Miami location, Zuma. Mom and I first visited the Miami location, which is located inside the beautiful Kimpton Hotel Epic, years ago and fell in love. So of course, when in New York, we had to test and see if the New York location could live up to its sister restaurant down south. 

I loved even the entrance to the restaurant. It’s the attention to detail for me.

This upscale, trendy restaurant in midtown Manhattan offers both traditional and unique Japanese cuisine, in my opinion, bursting with flavor in every good way possible. We opted for lunch considering our late afternoon train back to D.C. and intentionally chose dishes that we hadn’t tried at the other location.

I started with the miso soup, which was perfect for a crisp spring day, and offered just the right amount of flavor and warmth. Next, I ventured onto the pirikara hamachi maki roll, which was a spicy yellowtail roll with serrano pepper, avocado, wasabi mayo. I normally wouldn’t choose a roll with that much kick, but I was feeling adventurous. I was assured that it was not a burn-your-mouth type of heat, and my waitress was spot on. It was absolutely delicious, especially adding the fresh sliced ginger to the mix. Mom chose two appetizers, the chicken skewers with spring onion and rock shrimp tempura with chili tofu. The sauce that they served with the latter was amazing. 

Another thing to note about Zuma is the authenticity and stunning beauty of the decor. The attention to detail is unmatched. I’ve never been to Japan, but you couldn’t tell me that I wasn’t there on that afternoon. It’s also important to share that the service at both restaurants was impeccable.

Photos just don’t do this place justice.

When in New York, do yourself a favor and make it a point to visit these two dope restaurants, but please make sure you make a reservation. Others know how great they are too. You’re welcome!

Home Sweet Home Away From Home Pt 4

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On this third annual month-long respite in Anguilla, I pondered what has made this gorgeous island country so enchanting to me. Truth is there are beautiful beaches, abundant sun, delectable cuisine, and good vibes in many places all over the world. And many of them are a lot easier on your pockets.

I figured I would at least attempt to offer my Golden Life tribe a taste of what makes Anguilla so special. In fact, that’s what Parts 1, 2, and 3 have attempted to do. I’ve concluded that there is simply a je ne sais quoi about this place that can only be experienced. But while you’re here, I’d love to share with you some of my new finds and tidbits that I encountered on my most recent visit in January.

When in Anguilla…

I discovered Johnnos, a beloved beachfront restaurant among the locals accidentally. We had a reservation to visit one of Anguilla’s beautiful off-shore islands, Sandy Island (similar to Scilly Cay island we visited last time), and somehow they forgot to tell us they had a private party for the day. Fortunately, Johnnos, which is located right at the dock for the ferries to the island welcomed us with open arms. (Pro tip: When visiting a destination, go to the spots the locals enjoy. In my experience, you can’t go wrong with that. When in Rome…)

I was excited to learn that whole snapper is one of their specialties, and it comes right out of the sea, caught by a local fisherman. Can’t get any fresher than that! To top it off, they are a go-to place for live music on Sunday afternoons. My type of vibe!

Aurora has my heart

In my previous blog posts about Anguilla, I only briefly mentioned the Aurora property, but it’s been a go-to spot every visit. In my opinion, it is one of the top three most beautiful resorts on the island, and I would recommend a stay there if you have the coins to match. 

Even if you aren’t a guest, you are allowed to enjoy the property’s  abundant amenities such as the spa (which mom and I visited the first year) and the beachfront restaurant and bar, which has fantastic views. It is also cool to visit at night when they host live entertainment.

It’s also important to mention that the Aurora is home to the only golf course on the island, so if you’re a golfer, this is definitely your place to be!

Photo courtesy of Anguilla-Beaches.com

Zemi Take Me Away

I fell in love with Zemi at first sight. For starters, this beautiful boutique resort is located on my favorite beach on the island, Shoal Bay. It also has one of the most beautiful spas I’ve ever seen, and coming from a spa girl, that says a lot! Zemi’s vibe is all about the zen, and they nail that in every crook and cranny of the property.

This time, we enjoyed craft cocktails at their seaside bar and experienced live music and tasty bites at the The Bohio Bar & Sushi Lounge. I highly recommend this experience. And if you’re a spa bum or a boutique hotel lover like me, Zemi is your spot. It also happens to be a Hilton for you Hilton Honors members out there.

For All Seasons

I can’t remember ever visiting a Four Seasons that I didn’t like, and this one certainly did not disappoint. The Four Seasons Anguilla happens to be the only chain resort on the island. During last year’s visit, I indulged in the Spa, which was like its own resort. The views from the relaxing lounge and patio are breathtaking and of course, the massage was one of the best I’ve ever had. I recommend a full day here. You can’t go wrong at any of the restaurants.

This year, my family and friends visited on a Saturday night to check out one of Anguilla’s favorite homegrown bands Omalie 360. Absolutely amazing! Omalie, the band’s lead singer, even invited me up to sing along with him. It was a night to remember!

Omalie, the lead singer of Omalie 360. Be sure to check them out while in Anguilla, they were awesome!

You had me at aloe

I’ve been to many Caribbean islands and cities in Mexico where beach entrepreneurs occasionally sell their massage services. However, the Anguillan beach entrepreneurs made an offer that we just could not refuse – fresh aloe massages. Yes, they come prepared with fresh aloe leaves that they cut and pull fresh aloe juice from to serve as the ointment for your foot and leg massage. Yes please! I can not tell you how soft and refreshing my legs and feet felt after that treatment.

My mom and our friend on the Straw Hat terrace on NFL Sunday
This massage felt like what I would imagine heaven feels like.
We made fast friends with Straw Hat Manager Doris.

I’m not sure where else they offer their services, but we experienced this piece of heaven on the beach in front of Straw Hat at the Frangipani Resort. By the way, if you are a sports fan this is your spot! In addition to having a fabulous beach, the restaurant area has multiple screens sharing live sports from the US and all over the world for your viewing pleasure. As we visited during NFL playoff season, this became our Cheers every Sunday.

If you’re still not convinced that Anguilla is a place for you to visit, just know that I’m happy to continue to do the research for you (smile). Clearly, this little island has a lot to offer, and I’m looking forward to seeing what gems I will find during my next visit. You’ll certainly be the first to know!

For more golden life ventures visit www.goldenlifeventures.com.

The Present Matters

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In 2022 Mom and I started what has now become an annual tradition of spending the month of January on a beautiful little island country named Anguilla. To say that it is completely restorative and refreshing would be accurate, and also an understatement. This time away has become necessary for my overall well-being.

It is during these retreats I have been the most reflective and in turn, inspired. On this trip, I have thought a lot about what it means to be present. To me, it means being fully attuned and connected to the moment of now. 

Mom taking a moment to soak in all the beautiful scenery in Anguilla, even on a cloudy day.

The time away, which consists of longer periods spent disconnected from technology, always allows me to savor the “right now” moments in my life. In fact, we can call this blog post a Part 2 to Right Now, a post I wrote two years ago almost to the day. As I reflect on the contribution that our devices have had on our growing inability to appreciate the present, I can’t help but consider how we got here.

For a moment it seemed that the global shutdown helped us in that it forced us to interact more with our loved ones at home. However, one of the many ways that it did more harm than good is that it reinforced and exacerbated our deep dependence on technology.  

We have become so tethered to technology that many of us have forgotten how to be with each other. We use our devices as a crutch during silent moments. Our conversations are often interrupted by the sudden pings of not just our phones, but our smartwatches, which keep us constantly “connected.” Sadly, however, we’ve never been more disconnected. Our fixation with our gadgets has in many ways made introverted people more introverted and even caused extroverts to become introverted. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not criticizing introversion. But when it happens at the expense of our abilities as humans to communicate with each other and appreciate what is happening right in front of us “offline,” Houston, we have a problem.

How did we get here?

One click…

One like…

One text…

One post…

One binge…

One emoji…

One reel…

At a time.

So how do we coexist with and benefit from technology while also remaining present to and focused on the beautiful moments in front of us? It probably looks different for each person, but I’ll start with a few of my own new habits.

  1. Setting boundaries around my technology. This includes keeping my phone on silent, only answering or responding during designated times throughout the day, and not letting every little ping interrupt me from what I’m focused on in the moment. It might even include at some point purposely leaving my phone behind at times. *Insert Gasp here.*
  2. Asking myself, “What is the present moment inviting me to notice or be aware of?” Searching for the beauty in each moment we get here on Earth helps me to value each minute I have. I’ve found most times, I don’t have to look very far for the beauty around me. It’s often in the people I’ve been overlooking when my face is buried in one of my devices.
  3. Changing scenery every so often. Going away to places like Anguilla is awesome, but not practical for everyday living. I’ve found that even just working from a new place in my house from time to time gives me a newfound perspective. And with a newfound perspective comes another opportunity to see hidden gems around me.

I always thought wasting time was about doing something pointless or unnecessary. Now I see the worst type of time wasted is experiencing each precious day on Earth that we’ll never get back again and not being fully present to the beauty of the things and the people around us.

We’ve seen movies and TV shows that point to the threat of technology completely taking over our lives. And yet, we seem to be completely unbothered by the fact that fiction is slowly but surely becoming our truth. 

So how do we fix it? I’m not here to judge or attempt to provide an answer because truth is, I’ve certainly been complicit in technology’s takeover. It’s a rhetorical question, but one I hope encourages all of us to ponder the individual roles we have in reclaiming our gift of the present. Because it is, in fact, a gift; and it matters to our humanity.

My Real Trinidadian Vacation

Posted on by goldenlifemusings

There’s nothing quite as powerful for a mindset shift as a change in scenery. 

This week I’m returning from vacation to a place that I visited for the first time earlier this year. I don’t normally visit the same place twice in one year, especially one that is out of the country. However, the first time I visited the beautiful island country of Trinidad, I spent the majority of my time working.

The purpose of my trip this time was a true vacation. Normally my vacations consist of ample time to explore and experience everything a destination has to offer. However, the hustle and bustle of my everyday life had me essentially limping onto the plane, desperate for some relief from all the demands of my life.

The words person that I am, I decided to look up the definition of the word vacation. 

It comes from the Latin word vacātiō, which means “exemption from service, respite from work,” and traces back to vacāre, “to be empty, be free, have leisure.”

I felt all of that on this trip.

While I intended to see a lot more of the county on this visit, it turns out, that’s not really what I needed. I needed to rest. I needed to reset. I needed to restore. I needed to be still. 

And still, I was.

I loved leisurely starting my day each morning with yoga and ginger tea.

I think many of us have come to believe that we always have to be doing something, even on our vacations. Some of us can’t even begin to understand the concept of having leisure. But recently, my pastor Keith Battle inspired me with his series entitled “Margin” to take a deeper look into why I was so drained and exhausted going into my vacation in the first place. 

I lacked margin – what he calls the space between our resources (skills, wisdom, finances, time, etc), which are limited, and our responsibilities (commitments and obligations for work, family, ministry, etc.), which sometimes seem to be never ending. For most of us, that space is non-existent, and even worse, for some of us, our responsibilities exceed our resources. This lack of space between our resources and our responsibilities is exactly what has the majority of us in a constant state of exhaustion.

Going into this vacation with a newfound mindset that gave me the grace and freedom to do nothing, I came back refreshed, renewed, and restored in ways that I haven’t felt from a vacation in a long time. If you’re anything like me, you’re likely in need of a do-nothing vacation too. I know, you may be saying to yourself, I can rest at home. The reality is that most of us don’t. We need that change of scenery (and climate for me) to put us on the road to recovery.

A return visit to Maracas Bay beach was very necessary.
The view from the Maracas Bay Lookout never gets old.

While I did rest a lot, I want you to know that I didn’t come back to my golden life tribe empty-handed. In addition to the Trinidadian treats I shared in the musing from my first visit, “A Trip Fit for a Queen,” I have a few more recommendations for any of you planning to visit.

I couldn’t resist capturing a photo opp under this beautiful tree in the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Take a stroll or have a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens. If you are a nature lover, or you just enjoy peaceful, serene environments, this is a must for you. With a mini zoo on the property, filled with lively, colorful birds, it offers an abundance of flora and fauna that is sure to delight your senses. This Garden, which happens to be one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, also offers areas where you can sit and enjoy a bite to eat with a friend or enjoy some “me” time. There are also fascinating views of the President’s House, as well as beautiful rolling hills that can serve as a mini hiking experience.

Grab local fare from Queen’s Park Savannah. In addition to boasting the world’s largest roundabout, and offering views of some of Trinidad’s magnificent seven buildings, including castles, this beautiful park hosts food trucks that sell some of Trinidad’s best cuisine in the evenings. They serve everything from shark and bake, a local favorite, to some North American favorites like fried chicken wings and tacos. The Queen’s Park area also hosts numerous festivals, including the Pan African Festival, which I visited back in July and August.

Take in the breathtaking view of the city at the famous lookout points. One of the most charming attributes of Trinidad is the natural beauty that you can take in from several lookouts around the capital city of Port of Spain. The Maracas Bay lookout was definitely deserving of another visit, and this time I was also able to take in the daytime and nighttime views of the Lady Young Road Lookout. While you’re there, shop some of the local vendors and sit down and enjoy a drink and a bite to eat from Tastee Tobago. This cute little restaurant has great food representing Tobago, Trinidad’s sister country, and offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and Queen’s Park Savannah.

For more golden life ventures visit www.goldenlifeventures.com.