Roundup: Anaïs Nin Inspired Places

Anaïs Nin, the prolific writer known for her introspective diaries and sensual literary style, was deeply influenced by the people and places she encountered. If she were to travel in the modern era, these five cities and towns would likely have appealed to her sense of beauty, creativity, and exploration. Each location, with its own unique charm, provides an opportunity to imagine how Nin might have engaged with its culture, art, and ambiance. Here’s a glimpse into five destinations Anaïs Nin might have adored, along with boutique hotel suggestions and activities that would have inspired her.

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A 5-Day Itinerary for Marfa, TX: Artsy Adventures, Local Eats, and the Marfa Lights

A 5-Day Itinerary for Marfa, TX: Artsy Adventures, Local Eats, and the Marfa Lights

Marfa, Texas, is an enchanting desert town with a blend of modern art, literary intrigue, and natural wonders. From world-class installations to mysterious phenomena like the Marfa Lights, the town offers plenty of unique experiences for creative souls and curious travelers. Here’s a 5-day itinerary highlighting the best places to stay, eat, and explore in Marfa.

Best Time to Visit Marfa The ideal times to visit Marfa are in spring (March-May) and fall (September-November), when the weather is milder, making it easier to enjoy outdoor activities and art installations. During these seasons, the town hosts events like the Chinati Foundation’s open house in October, perfect for art enthusiasts.

Important Note on Dining
Marfa’s restaurant hours can be a bit unpredictable, so it’s important to check ahead for opening and closing times. Some spots may have limited hours or may be closed on certain days, so always call or check their websites before planning your meals.

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Insider Tips for Last-Minute Ski Getaways

If procrastination has kept you from booking your winter vacation, you’re in luck. There’s still time to book your last-minute ski getaway! I've looked at ski destinations near and far and found availability at some of my favorite resorts. But with the holidays right around the corner, things change quickly, so be sure to reach out to me to find the latest available rooms. See what I’ve found in my article on Fora.

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Announcing the Newest Fora Reserve Partners: Anguilla, Dublin, London and More

From Colorado to Croatia, Portugal to Saint Moritz, the latest Fora Reserve partners bring you around the world — in style. Here’s where to travel next.  

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Last-Minute Sunny Getaways for Winter Break

Sometimes, holiday plans come together at the last minute. And sometimes, those spontaneous, spur-of-the-moment celebrations are the most memorable. Luckily, hotels in sunny destinations around the world still have spots available this holiday season, and they’re more likely to reserve such prime space for preferred partners. Please note that availability, especially this time of year, is highly volatile. At the time of writing, the hotels mentioned below do indeed have availability, but this may change. Even more reason to reach out to snag your last-minute spot. Read my article on Fora Travel to see where to go!

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Exploring Tarot Travel: Journeying Through Archetypes and Sacred Spaces

In an age where travel is increasingly personalized, niche experiences are flourishing. One of these rising trends is Tarot Travel, a concept that blends traditional sightseeing with the mystical, symbolic world of tarot cards. But what exactly is tarot travel, and how does it take shape? Let’s dive into this unique form of experiential travel that merges destinations, hotels, food, and activities with the archetypal energies of tarot cards.

What is Tarot Travel?

Tarot travel is about embarking on a journey that aligns with the themes, symbols, and archetypes found in tarot cards. It’s not just a spiritual retreat; it’s a curated experience that brings tarot's wisdom into the physical world. Just as each card in the tarot deck has its own story and energy, tarot travel aims to immerse travelers in places, activities, and environments that embody those archetypes. Whether you’re seeking transformation, reflection, celebration, or justice, tarot can help guide your journey and bring greater meaning to your travels.

While many people associate tarot with divination or fortune-telling, most don’t use it in this way. Tarot can simply be a fun, artsy way to find inspiration. Its rich symbolism and imagery make it an ideal creative tool for crafting unique experiences that tap into deep human emotions and themes. Whether or not you believe in its mystical aspects, tarot can be an enjoyable and visually engaging lens through which to explore the world.

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MIndful Travel, Mindfulness, Wellness, Inspiration Rachel Baila MIndful Travel, Mindfulness, Wellness, Inspiration Rachel Baila

Mindful Travel: A Journey Beyond Destinations

In a fast-paced world where travel can often feel rushed and superficial, mindful travel is an intentional practice that encourages us to slow down and connect with our surroundings in a deeper, more meaningful way. It’s about being present in the moment, savoring the experiences we encounter, and approaching travel with a sense of awareness and openness. But what mindful travel looks like can vary dramatically from person to person, as each of us connects to places and experiences differently.

At its core, mindful travel is not about ticking off famous landmarks or collecting stamps in your passport—unless that’s what fuels your sense of adventure and presence. It’s about how you travel, rather than where you travel. Are you truly absorbing the moment? Are you in tune with the energy of the space you’re in? These are the types of questions a mindful traveler might consider along the journey.

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Itinerary: Anne Sexton Inspired

Anne Sexton, one of the most confessional poets of the 20th century, wrote about life, death, madness, and the intricacies of the human soul. Her poetry is raw, haunting, and full of complex emotion, often shaped by her struggles with mental illness and personal traumas. Traveling in her footsteps is not just about visiting physical locations but immersing oneself in the themes of her work. This five-day itinerary is designed to reflect Sexton’s poetry—mixing urban introspection, serene nature, and moments of quiet reflection.

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Understanding the Chakras: A Simple Guide to Your Energy Centers

If you've ever been curious about chakras but felt overwhelmed by all the information out there, you're not alone. Chakras are often talked about in spiritual, wellness, and healing circles, but many people struggle to grasp what they really are. In this post, we're going to break down the basics of chakras in the easiest way possible. Let’s dive into the main seven chakras, and how they relate to your body, mind, and spirit.

What Are Chakras?

In simplest terms, chakras are energy centers in your body. The word “chakra” comes from Sanskrit and means “wheel” or “disk,” referring to the spinning vortexes of energy that help regulate physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Think of them like energy highways, connecting different parts of your body and influencing how you feel.

When your chakras are balanced, you feel healthy, grounded, and aligned. But when they’re blocked or out of sync, you may experience physical or emotional issues. There are many chakras in the body, but today we’re focusing on the main seven. Each of these corresponds to a different area of the body, color, and function.

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Announcing the Latest Fora Reserve Members: Sardinia, Santorini, Portland & More

Choose from boutique gems on Santorini and Caribbean villas, New York opulence and hip urban escapes. Whatever your travel style, Fora’s latest Reserve inductees have you covered.

When you’re ready to plan and book your vacation, reach out to unlock exclusive perks and the ultimate VIP treatment.

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Roundup: 5 Female-authored Books that Embody the Essence of Libras.

5 Books Written by Women That Embody the Essence of Libra

Libras, the charming air sign ruled by Venus, are associated with balance, harmony, beauty, and a deep love for connection. They crave fairness, peace, and aesthetic pleasures, often seeking equilibrium in their relationships and environment. With a diplomatic nature and an appreciation for art and culture, Libras are drawn to intellectual discourse and the beauty of the world, both in the physical and emotional sense.

Here are five books written by women that capture the essence of Libra through their themes of balance, beauty, relationships, and the search for harmony.

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Roundup: Libra-Inspired Travel—Unique Cities That Embody Balance, Beauty, and Culture

Libra-Inspired Travel: Unique Cities That Embody Balance, Beauty, and Culture

Libras, ruled by Venus, are known for their love of beauty, balance, and harmony. They seek destinations that are rich in culture, art, and social experiences. Whether it’s indulging in fine cuisine, admiring stunning architecture, or engaging in activities that nourish both body and soul, Libras crave a well-rounded travel experience. Here are four unique cities perfect for the sophisticated Libra, complete with food, activities, and boutique hotel suggestions that embody their refined tastes.

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Roundup: 5 Lesser-Known Fall Festivals in the U.S.

5 Lesser-Known Fall Festivals in the U.S.

As the temperatures drop and leaves begin to turn golden, fall festivals across the U.S. bring communities together for celebrations of local culture, history, and the season’s bounty. While events like Oktoberfest and state fairs attract large crowds, many lesser-known fall festivals offer unique experiences and a more intimate atmosphere. Here are five hidden gems in South Dakota, Maine, West Virginia, Nebraska, and Oregon that are worth checking out this fall.

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Roundup: Five Lesser-Known Towns to Visit in the U.S. in October

Ask anyone and they will probably tell you that October is one of their favorite months. How can it not be? It’s magical. The air turns crisp, and with it, the leaves transform into a kaleidoscopic blaze of color. We’ve curated a list of lesser known towns that offer a unique fall experience without the madness of hotspot crowds. Here are five hidden fall gems to enjoy this October:

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Cruise, Antarctica, Europe, Africa Rachel Baila Cruise, Antarctica, Europe, Africa Rachel Baila

Inspiration: Cruise Specials to Book Now

If you want to see multiple destinations without having to unpack multiple times, consider a cruise. Some of my favorite cruise lines are running VIP offers that will make your decision that much easier. With everything from last-minute adventures to bucket-list expeditions, Fora's cruise partners deliver. 

Cruises are in. To experience what everyone’s been raving about (or to come back for more), plan and book your next cruise with me. I'll take care of everything, and ensure you’re treated like the VIP you are. 

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September Openings & Offers: Palazzos, Music & More

Whether you’re looking for a last-minute trip or want to lock in your holiday plans (it’s never too early), Fora's partners have you covered. An array of openings, events and exclusive offers has me packing my bags, ready to round out the year in style.

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Inspiration: Where to Go for an October Long Weekend

There’s something special about October. The leaves turn orange and crunchy, the air turns crisp and a pervasive coziness reigns. It’s the perfect time to take a few days off for a long weekend to experience fall (and maximize your PTO). 

I've collated a few getaways perfect for a long weekend, whether you want to go full fall or venture off somewhere warm and more tropical. When you’re ready, reach out to plan, book and get the most out of your trip.

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Inspiration: Wellness, Pets & Far-Flung Escapes: August Openings & Offers

We’ve officially made it to August. Some may dub it the end of summer; for others, it’s the height of the season. However you interpret it, though, it’s the perfect month for a last-minute getaway — or for planning your next big adventure. 

Below, there are new openings and special offers that make either travel mode all the more enticing. Read on for the details. Then, reach out to plan and book your VIP getaway today.

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