REYU is a movement for those who want to stay healthy and beautiful, by restoring their bodies’ natural connections.
Our bodies are constantly self-repaired by 3 central organs; the brain, the heart, and the intestines. They feed, repair, and regulate all our peripheral cells and organs through blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic ducts, which run back and forth in loops - we call them the bio-feedback loops. The youthful state of both internal and external peripheral organs is dependent on the integrity of their bio-feedback loops to these 3 central organs. As we age, these loops degenerate. The impaired connection between the central organs and ALL our cells is creating both beauty and health issues. That’s why beauty and health are correlated - both are a reflection of young and functional biofeedback loops. True rejuvenation starts with the biofeedback loops. REYU is a technology designed to achieve the restoration of these loops in a sustainable and 100% natural way.
Mother-Daughter Duo, Dr. Greet and Sophie
Hair growth result with REYU
Exploring in Style
We live in a world that values productivity and efficiency, where every moment seems to be mapped out and planned. I’ll admit, I fall into this mindset sometimes too, thinking that the only worthwhile activities are those that can be measured, calculated, and optimized. But the truth is, a life that is too structured is missing something vital— space for exploration.
We need room for discovery, for trying new things, for immersion, and authentic experience. It's in these moments where connections are made, memories are created, and trust is built.
I've been lucky enough in my life to have had many memorable travel experiences - both domestically and while I lived overseas for 12 years of my life. I love the moment when you first touch down in a new place - the wonder, the intrigue, new cultures, foods, sights and sounds. From the wineries of the Rhone Valley to the hustle and bustle of Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo to the off-the-beaten-path exploration of temples in Bagan, Myanmar - those experiences help shape us and allow us to learn and grow.
This issue is all about giving yourself permission to explore—whether it’s a spontaneous trip, or making time for those treasured moments with the people you love. Let’s make space for the unexpected and the unexplored, and remember that it’s often in these moments that the richest connections are formed.
And, if we can explore in style, in comfort, and at ease - even better! That's why we've featured the partners that we have in this issue - they put their clients first, understanding their exploration desires and priorities so as to provide a First Class experience.
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High-End Luxury Travel with Caitlin Pfitzinger Travel
Luxury travel is all about creating extraordinary experiences, pairing you with the finest accommodations, personalized service, and unique moments - leaving a lasting impression.
From personalized itinerary planning to concierge assistance during travel, your every need is anticipated and met. From private tours of iconic landmarks, to behind-the-scenes and VIP access to cultural and entertainment events, to private island experiences, to safaris - there’s little that can’t be arranged when working with Caitlin Pfitzinger Travel!
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Thrive IV Bar: IV Therapies, Cryotherapies, Infrared Sauna, and More!
Naples leader in IV Therapies, Cryotherapies, Infrared Sauna, Facials & more. They provide a wide range of wellness therapies for a healthier life. Whether you are looking for relaxation, recovery, or a quick energy boost, the tranquil ambiance of their clinic, mixologists, and amazing Thrive staff will help you feel better the moment you walk through their doors. Drip, Chill, Revive with Thrive IV Bar!
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Three60 Wine Club at Rebecca’s gives members exclusive access to premium wines from Tuscany, Napa, Italy, France and beyond. Savor the nest wines from around the world every month, all in one place— welcome to Three60 Wine at Rebecca’s.
• T Two Tastings Per Month
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Experience the Magic of Art at Gallery One
Discover the vibrant world of contemporary art and American crafts at Gallery One, a Naples’ 5th Ave-based, premier art gallery. Established in 1992, they have been proudly showcasing fine quality works from over 300 talented artists. Our captivating displays showcase an extensive collection of colorful art glass, mesmerizing sculptures, stunning original paintings, exquisite artisan jewelry, ‘Frogman’ bronze frogs, and Judaica. Step into a realm of beauty and creativity at Gallery One!
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Q & A Meet The Luxe Travel Consultants
We sat down with Rodney George, Founder of Luxe Travel Consultants, to learn more about him and his team, and their specialized, high-end approach to travel consultancy, planning, and client service. Here's what we learned and thought you should know too:
The Only Way to Travel: First Class All the Way
ARTICLE BY PCCL STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAMANTHA BLOOM
Rodney George, Luxe Travel Consultants Owner
Theresa Perez Luxe Travel Advisor
Q. RODNEY, YOU SPENT OVER 25 YEARS AS A HIGH-NET-WORTH INVESTMENT SPECIALIST BEFORE FOUNDING LUXE TRAVEL CONSULTANTS. WHAT INSPIRED THIS SIGNIFICANT CAREER SHIFT, AND HOW HAS YOUR FINANCIAL BACKGROUND INFLUENCED YOUR APPROACH TO LUXURY TRAVEL PLANNING?
A. After a successful career in finance, coupled with the 2008 recession, I decided it was then time to cash in the chips and move on to my next opportunity. I had traveled all over the world, so my friend suggested I consider travel planning, as he and other friends were always asking me for advice and tips. It was at this time, that I met Theresa Perez who worked for AAA Travel. We partnered together and added 6-8 associates to our team since then.
What I wanted to bring to the table was a concierge-level of service for discerning clients; much like I and my team had provided high-net worth clients in the investment management space. I learned what affluent customers want from an investment advisory and I parlayed it into this line of business. Sophisticated customers like to do business with people they know, like, and trust. We try to turn that like into love.
Q. WHAT SPECIFIC NEEDS OR GAPS IN THE LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET DID YOU OBSERVE THAT LED TO THE CREATION OF LUXE TRAVEL CONSULTANTS?
A. The biggest factor is when working with high net worth individuals, one must come with a mindset and approach to operate from a consultative perspective. It is essential to spend time with each client and understand their expectations. I ask most of my clients upfront, ‘if we were meeting here a year from now, what would have to happen for you to be 100% pleased?’.
What might be the expectations of one client, can be totally different of another; and sometimes, these variances hold in the same groups who want to travel together. For example, we plan a lot of multi-generational trips (sometime for families up to 10-20 people) - what might be the desires of 75 year old grandparents will obviously be different to the needs of their 45 year old children and their 5-15 year old grandchildren. Being a grandparent myself, I understand this.
Sometimes, we are planning solo trips too - for divorcees, widows, or people whose significant other doesn't want to travel as much. Many cruise lines are now looking to accommodate these individuals specifically, and we are experts in this; on both sea and land.
"We're focused on continued upward trajectory - providing our clients authentic, intimate, experiential, first class travel - always."
Ivone Pick Kathy Christopher
Luxe Travel Client Service Manager Luxe Travel Advisor
Also, when we're talking about high-end travel, what constitutes luxury for one person, may be different for another. We really look to dive in and understand what luxury means to each client.
This is why 1) every trip we plan is very customized and accommodating, and 2) we have a Client Service Team in place who make sure the trips we plan - from airfare to excursions to transfers - are executed with precision.
Q. TO THAT END, HOW DOES YOUR TEAM SPECIFICALLY LOOK TO TAILOR TRAVEL EXPERIENCES TO MEET THE UNIQUE DESIRES AND EXPECTATIONS OF EACH CLIENT?
A. Even with something as simple as a cruise, we look to tailor welcome drinks, we ensure the butler knows who they are, etc. Many ships have a GM or Hotel Manager, and we make sure our clients receive first class service with special touches. On land, everything becomes highly personalized. For example, at the Louvre, our clients use the side entrance and receive the VIP tour. Our customers can expect to always be exploring and enjoying; not waiting in unnecessary lines and dealing with hassles. We are able to achieve this by the incredible relationships we have struck in the industry - both direct and indirect.
Q. SINCE ITS INCEPTION, HOW HAS LUXE TRAVEL CONSULTANTS EVOLVED IN TERMS OF SERVICES OFFERED AND CLIENTELE SERVED?
A. Probably the biggest change and aha moment was when we became affiliated with the Cruise Planners franchise. Most Cruise Planner franchise owners are home-based, but as we're a brick and mortar, it's even
more essential that we have the proper operational and systems support so that we can focus on what we do best: consulting our clients. Cruise Planners has been around for 30 years and the back office support they bring to the table is unmatched.
The next significant shift was when the AMEX travel affiliate program folded, and we partnered with Signature Travel Network. Their exclusive access to hotels, resorts, cruises, and destination specialists is incredible worldwide. They also provide technology solutions, marketing tools, and training resources to help members grow their businesses and build client relationships.
Q. COULD YOU SHARE AN EXAMPLE OF A PARTICULARLY MEMORABLE OR UNIQUE TRIP YOUR TEAM HAS PLANNED FOR A CLIENT?
A. We had a family of 12 and they wanted to charter a yacht in the Greek Isles. We created a custom trip for them from Athens to Mykonos to Santorini to Crete. The matriarch of the family was skeptical at first because there were many different generations involved, different personalities to please, and they wanted to see and do a lot. She ended up being beyond pleased - so pleased that they immediately planned another trip the following year to Northern Europe.
Q. LET'S TALK ABOUT YOUR PODCAST A BIT. WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO START “THE LUXURY TRAVELERS PODCAST”, AND WHAT DO YOU HOPE LISTENERS GAIN FROM IT?
A. Not many in travel planning have a podcast. We have done 40 episodes so far, interviewing the powers
Ann Svensson Kali Meister
Luxe Travel Advisor
that be of the travel industry. It's been great for both us and our clients, as we've forged major relationships with power players in the travel industry, stemming from these interviews. This has led to us being involved in testing opportunities for clients before many other travel planners get the opportunity. For example, we've been invited on an upcoming luxury yacht venture out of Venice accommodating only 100 people. I see this as being akin to conducting due diligence in financial services. How can we recommend something to our clients if we haven't experienced it and believe it's top-notch ourselves?
It's also been great from a marketing perspective, as people want to hear all about firsthand travel accounts - our podcast allows us to achieve this, as people listen to the content on our website, Facebook, and via email.
Some of our clients have contacted us wanting to be involved and give their opinions, reviews, and tips too!
Q. BASED ON YOUR PODCAST DISCUSSIONS, WHAT EMERGING TRENDS DO YOU SEE SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LUXURY TRAVEL?
A. The more sophisticated traveler wants more intimacy, specialty and fine dining, upscale wines,
"Our clients can expect to always be exploring and enjoying."
Luxe Travel Client Service Manager
private excursions, and new or off the beaten path experiences. They are also looking for more immersive experiences. For example, we are currently working with a global private jet travel company to put together a really high-end golf trip around the world. For the non-golfers on that trip, we will ensure each place we go has spas, wine, hiking trails, shopping, dining, and cultural excursions that appeal to them.
Q. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT FUTURE COLLABORATIONS WITH REBECA MADDOX AND YOUR JOINT VENTURE, THE MADDOX TRAVEL CLUB? AS WELL AS YOUR NEWLY FORGED RELATIONSHIP WITH CUVÉE WINE TRAVEL?
A. We currently plan a lot of country club, yacht club, and golf club travel, so this experience allows us to be a great partner for a private members' club like The Maddox. We will be working with them to plan trips with master sommeliers, James Beard Award chefs, and more.
Carol, who owns Cuvée Wine Travel, will be an Independent with us, and lead wine travel, bringing with her a breadth of knowledge and experience being a professional sommelier and tour operator. We are beyond excited about both partnerships!
Q. WHAT ARE THE GOALS FOR LUXE TRAVEL CONSULTANTS IN THE NEXT 5 YEARS?
A. We're focused on continued upward trajectory - providing our clients authentic, intimate, experiential, first class travel - always.
FLY ABOVE the Ordinary
Three elevated offerings. One mission: deliver unmatched private air travel with safety, luxury, and care.
ARTICLE BY DATAMIZE
At Elite Jets and Elite Helicopters of Naples, we offer more than just flights, we offer peace of mind, time saved, and moments remembered.
PRIVATE CHARTER FLIGHTS –NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED
Step aboard our fleet of modern, spacious jets and travel where and when you want. No contracts, no commitments, just first-class amenities, personal service, and complete flexibility. Whether you’re headed across the state or across the country, enjoy privacy, comfort, and a team dedicated to making your journey seamless.
AIRCRAFT MANAGEMENT – PROTECT & MAXIMIZE YOUR INVESTMENT
We manage your aircraft like it’s our own. From maintenance and scheduling to compliance, staffing, and charter revenue opportunities, our Aircraft Management program ensures your asset is professionally maintained and fully optimized all while you retain full access and control.
HELICOPTER CHARTERS TO USEPPA ISLAND & BEYOND
Arrive in minutes, not hours. Our Bell 407 helicopter offers a quiet, luxurious ride to Florida’s most exclusive destinations, including Useppa Island, the Everglades, and the Gulf Coast’s legendary beaches. Wide windows, leather seating, A/C, Wi-Fi, and refreshments make every scenic flight feel extraordinary.
AT A GLANCE: WHAT WE OFFER
PRIVATE JET CHARTERS
• Fly on your terms - no membership required
• Access a fleet of luxury aircraft with first-class amenities
• Dedicated concierge service, seamless departures, and stress-free arrivals
• Based in Naples, serving Florida and the U.S.
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• End-to-end management for jet owners
• FAA compliance, pilot staffing, insurance, and dispatch
• Revenue generation via charter opportunities
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• Bell 407: Up to 6 passengers
• Air-conditioned leather cabin with panoramic windows
• Wi-Fi, refreshments, and a whisper-quiet ride
• Routes include Useppa Island, Everglades tours, Captiva, Naples, Fort Myers, Sarasota, and more
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OUR COMMITMENT TO SAFETY
Elite Jets is built on a foundation of rigorous safety standards, operational excellence, and hospitality. Our pilots have logged over 80,000 hours and complete annual advanced training. Our 24/7 ground crew, technicians, and flight team work together to ensure every flight is secure, smooth, and exceptional.
You deserve a better way to fly. You deserve Elite.
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Caitlin Pfitzinger Travel is an exclusive, luxury travel agency that works with discerning clients on carefully curated itineraries across all global destinations. We believe that travel has the power to transform, heal, and connect with the world across many levels. Whatever your travel desires are, they will be carefully and intentionally tailored to fit your itinerary and needs.
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CHOOSE YOUR FACE FOUNDRIÉ
121 8th St S, Naples, FL 34102 naples@facefoundrie.com / 239-777-2013
Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens Surf - History & Present
on Instagram.”
New Smyrna Beach is an eclectic mix of old and new; of subtle sophistication and bohemian soul that is as “real” as Florida gets in the east Central part of our state. Its appeal goes far deeper than its 17 miles of white sand beach and highly rated surfing too. Cutting-edge cuisine, a nationally recognized arts scene, beloved hotels, and historical ruins are just the beginning of the adventure. With the ocean on one side, the Intracoastal Waterway on the other, and all kinds of exciting sustainability efforts in between, their cozy city offers the perfect getaway—whether you’re interested in relaxing on the beach or discovering a new passion.
Accommodations range from charming bed and breakfast inns to family-size condominium units and oceanfront hotels. Natural attractions include a long stretch of sandy beaches from Ponce de Leon Inlet to Canaveral National Seashore and North America’s most diverse estuary – the Indian River Lagoon.
Two distinct downtowns along Flagler Avenue and Canal Street are connected via the Waterfront Loop, and welcome visitors with independent restaurants, unique shops, artisanal coffee shops and art galleries.
HIDDEN GEMS OF NEW SMYRNA BEACH
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT ON A BIOLUMINESCENT KAYAK TOUR
Prepare to be mesmerized by the enchanting beauty of Florida's bioluminescence on a pedal kayak tour, gliding through the protected waters of Canaveral National Seashore, just 15 minutes south of New Smyrna Beach. Witness nature's own light show under a starlit sky. During peak bioluminescence at this time of year, visitors can embark on a dazzling, eco-friendly adventure like no other.
DISCOVER THE JOY OF PAINTING AT THE BOB ROSS WORKSHOP AND GALLERY
Unleash your creativity and immerse yourself in the world of The Bob Ross Workshop and Gallery. Admire more than 50 of his original paintings, free of charge, and experience the joy of painting in a space inspired by Ross's passion for art and teaching. They also offer seminars and “Paint-Like-Bob” classes for all skill levels.
SURF THROUGH HISTORY AT NEW SMYRNA MUSEUM OF HISTORY
The area is also renowned as a premier surfing destination due to its consistent waves, ideal breaks, beautiful weather and vibrant surfing culture. A highlight for surf enthusiasts is the East Coast Surf Exhibit at The Museum of History, featuring historic photographs, surfboards and rare memorabilia celebrating the area's legacy as a top surfing destination. Find Dolphins and Secret Mangrove Forests on a Paddling Adventure Paddle through the serene mangrove forests and encounter a plethora of wildlife, from pink spoonbills to playful dolphins.. Whether you're a novice or experienced, the clear kayak tours cater to all skill levels.
EXPERIENCE
TIMELESS WONDER
AT DUNLAWTON SUGAR MILL GARDENS
Step into a world where time stands still at Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens. This unique destination in Port Orange was once home to an amusement park, Bongoland, in the 1950s and served as the site for a sugar factory in the 19th century.
Unlike typical tourist spots, this beachside destination offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural richness and authentic experiences. From the ethereal beauty of bioluminescent kayak tours to the tranquil charm of Bob Ross's art sanctuary, every corner of this charming coastal haven welcomes adventurers seeking something truly special.
This isn’t your average getaway.
This is luxury travel reimagined for wine lovers, foodies, and adventure-loving bon vivants.
At Cuvée Wine Travel, we specialize in custom-curated trips for wine groups, golf clubs, families and friends — all led or designed by our founder, a certified sommelier. Think private Grand Cru tastings in Bordeaux. Yacht-hopping in Croatia. Culinary river cruises through Europe’s hidden-gem vineyards.
Because life’s too short for bad wine or boring vacations.
One group. One unforgettable journey. One bottle (okay, maybe more) at a time.
Southwest Florida’s Leading Wine Storage And Vault Facility
Tiki Fun, Beach Delights and Sunset Tours
Dive into the hidden gems of Southwest Florida’s waters, from the captivating shores of Marco Island & the 10,000 Islands to the serene canals of Naples and Port Royal. Whether you’re after an exhilarating shelling tour, a fun-filled Tiki boat adventure for up to 26 guests, a romantic private sunset boat tour, or a relaxing pontoon boat tour, we’ve got the perfect adventure for you! Contact us today and let Sand Dollar Boat Tours turn your dreams into reality!
ARTICLE BY PCCL STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY SAMANTHA
BLOOM
CUVÉE Wine Travel
BLENDING WINE & LUXURY TRAVEL
We also sat down with Carol Wolniakowski, Owner of Cuvée Wine Travel, to learn more about her experience in the wine industry, and how that's led to her unique travel offering:
Q. You began your career in Law, Carol. What inspired the transition to the wine and wine travel industries?
A. My twin boys were born premature and faced health challenges early on. I put my law career aside to raise and take care of them. As their challenges became more manageable, I took up the hobby of learning about a passion of mine: wine. What turned into a hobby naturally progressed to a career transition, as I enjoyed giving friends and family wine (and corresponding food and travel) advice. What I found over the years is that you really need good advice when visiting wine country. Experiences, locations, types of wine all need to be thoughtfully planned. I became a certified sommelier and began working with a luxury travel agency in Chicago where I resided at the time. I spent a few years with them before I decided to venture out on my own. I wanted to have a business solely focused on wine, food, travel, and associated cultural experiences - and to answer to myself while doing it.
"It was a very moving experience for me, and made me realize how much travel brings wine to life."
Carol Wolniakowski, Owner of Cuvée Wine Travel
Q. What were some initial hurdles you faced when launching your business, and how did you overcome them?
A. I launched the business full throttle in 2019, so the first real challenge of course was Covid. I, therefore, enrolled in a marketing course specializing in the travel industry, created systems for my business, redid contractual templates, and virtually met with an industry mastermind group during this time. This laid the foundation for when travel fully bounced back in 2022.
I think that time period also made many of us reprioritize. When it came to travel specifically, people wanted to be together, commune, converse. In recent years due to this, many people are seeking camaraderie and wanting to travel as a group. Travelers also want to work with experienced travel consultants in a post-Covid world given the cancellations and other complexities they faced then.
Q. Can you share a pivotal moment that affirmed your decision to pursue this new path?
A. I escorted a group of wine professionals who worked in the travel industry on a Rhone River cruise. At one of the wineries, we tasted a beautiful Cornas (one of the most incredible Syrahs in the world). One of the professional's eyes teared up as we sipped and she said aloud, ‘I can’t believe I’m sat here in this special place in the world where the best Syrah is made’. It was a very moving experience for me, and made me realize how much travel brings wine to life.
Q. How do you tailor each wine tour to match the unique preferences of your clients?
A. It’s all about asking them the right questions upfront. I'm a member of Signature Travel Network, a luxury travel consortium; in it, they teach us how to ask the right questions. A lot of people get advice from others where to go; that might be great for your neighbor, but not necessarily you. Wine preferences, budget, accommodations all may vary. Getting to the bottom of this is key.
Q. Your tours offer exclusive experiences. How have you cultivated relationships that grant such unique access?
A. I have a foot in the wine industry and a foot in the travel industry, so this allows for best access in both worlds. Because I'm also a trained sommelier, and attend trade conferences, I have a network of vintners around the world. Signature Travel Network gives me access to the best travel providers in the world. Through my networking and experiences, I have also been invited to exclusive, unique locations and events that many travel agents don’t have access. That’s where I meet suppliers 1on1, vet them, and I'm able to curate experiences on the backend.
Q. Could you describe one of the most unforgettable experiences you’ve curated for a client?
A. A well traveled couple from Chicago wanted to go to Paris, but they had been many times before, so I needed to make the trip unique. They came back and said they didn’t know some of these places existed in Paris and were incredibly thankful for the new experiences. The gentleman also forgot his CPAP machine power cord and I was able to work with my local contacts to find him a necessary matching cord to fit European outlets; they were beyond relieved and appreciative that this was accommodated. It just further emphasizes connections, even abroad, that can be utilized when needed.
Q. How have you seen the wine tourism industry change over the years, and what trends do you foresee?
A. The trend is to have more authentic, immersive experiences. People want more in-depth, meaningful experiences. Some people are more about education; others about special features, little touches, the unexpected. Shared experiences in addition to wine and travel are growing too; for example, golf, cycling, cooking.
We are also seeing more wine regions open their doors to visitors. The Czech Republic’s South Moravian Region (an hour outside of Vienna) is becoming a more popular destination where they have hundreds of years old caves and traditions making their Pálava wine. Bulgaria is another - where its five primary wine regions of the Danube River Plains, Black Sea Coast, Valley of the Roses, Thracian Valley, and Struma River Valley are growing.
Q. What upcoming trips or destinations are you most excited about, and why?
A. I'm escorting a small 10-12 person group to Champagne in 2026. I just returned from there to put the finishing touches on the itinerary. It will include a mix of iconic brands with smaller bespoke ones, curating VIP experiences.
Q. Do you have a favorite wine region or varietal that you never tire of exploring?
A. Truthfully, I haven't tired of any region or varietal. Just recently I learned something new while in Champagne and I've been there many times before. Each time I (re) visit a region, I'm learning and eager to pass that knowledge and experience on to my clients.
Burgundy is my favorite wine region with traditions dating back to monks and where modern wine-making techniques were created.
Q. What core values drive your approach to client service and experience?
A. I grew up with Polish heritage; our home was always open and welcoming, cooking for friends, neighbors, family. I like to create a family-like environment and ensure people are taken care of. This service mentality coupled with reliability allow my clients to trust and put their faith in me. It's this approach, along with the travel itself, that help me bring wine to life for all of my clients.
Let us help you take care of what matters most
Let us help you take care of what matters most
Getting to know you and what you care most about planning for college, taking care of an elder family member, passing a legacy to future generations, buying a second home is so important. Once we understand your priorities, together, we can help you pursue the goals you’ve set for yourself and your family. Call to learn more today. Life happens. And you want to be ready when it does.
Getting to know you and what you care most about — planning for college, taking care of an elder family member, passing a legacy to future generations, buying a second home — is so important. Once we understand your priorities, together, we can help you pursue the goals you’ve set for yourself and your family. Call to learn more today.
Martha “Lupe” Mercier, CFP®
Wealth Management Advisor
NMLS #: 518940
239.263.1431
martha_mercier@ml.com
Martha “Lupe” Mercier, CFP®
Wealth Management Advisor
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
NMLS #: 518940
239.263.1431
9128 Strada Place, STE 301 NAPLES, FL 34108
martha_mercier@ml.com
239.263.1431 http://fa.ml.com/mercier_group
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
9128 Strada Place STE 301 NAPLES, FL 34108
239.263.1431
http://fa.ml.com/mercier_group
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Have Food, Will Travel
ARTICLE BY MR. BITES
For the size of its population, SWFL can be a Paradise Coast of epicurean delight. However, there are a few gaps in our gastronomic palette that can be filled by jumping in your vehicle and exploring points North and East. This month, we take a look at some spots that are worth turning into the De Leon of dining.
First, we head just a little bit north to the exploding burgh of Cape Coral and the great pizza, pinball and punk joint, Nice Guys. Nice Guys has that community and music vibe that is all too rare in a lot of places in our national map, let alone Florida. They have multitudes of pizza varieties, including a massive menu for your gluten-free and vegan friends. Along with a full bar, their beer selection is pretty broad and the bartenders have intimate knowledge of every can they serve and tap they pull. They even have fried Oreos!
It’s not just prime grub and bevos that make Nice Guy great though. They have a full stage with a ton of different quality local acts, very few of whom fall into that cheesy cover vibe (please stop playing “Still The One” or “Hotel California” immediately!) and…my personal favorite, they have a wall of about fifteen rotating pinball machines from all eras. The unusual artwork illuminated by blacklights makes for the perfect ambiance for a great experience.
Next, swing through the alley and head over to Mi Tierra in Kendall West for some spectacular Dominican and Caribbean fare. The blueprint stereotype of a Latin spot usually is homey with vibrant flavors and colors - Tierra stands out for its elegant light wood ambiance and subtle but spectacular takes on the classics. Their Picadera gives you a sample of all the classics, from well done mini sausages (amazing!) to fried cheese (duh...its FRIED CHEESE!) to perfect tostones. The avocado salad has a slight Asian slaw twist that balances out the meat in your meals with some nice acid. The star was the Mofongo. Mr. Bites loves him some plantains but had always thought Mofongo was a word that SNL attributed to David Ortiz for a Big Papi joke. Their mofongo is no joke. I highly recommend getting this mashed plantain dish with a pile of chicharrons on top for a crispy, salt and tender slap of amazing. Don’t forget to wash it down with one of the best sangrias I have ever had the pleasure of drinking.
Speaking of drinking, our last stop is less of a sit-down spot and more of a “Hey, I’ve had a few drinks, how do I wake up feeling just a tad bit less awful tomorrow while putting something really delicious in my belly?” Sadly, there are not enough of those spots around these parts, but for post-quaffing perfection, head over to the main drag of Delray, Atlantic Avenue for Big Al’s Cheesesteaks. My personal experience at Big Al’s was at midnight when the Avenue had tempered its party vibe with just a few stragglers left trying to capture the remains of the night. I approached Big Al’s window and ordered what turned out to be a spectacular, perfectly greasy, and cheesy (provolone, not Whiz, thank you very much!) footlong delight. The bread has a little crust, but was soft enough to let all the onion drippings mesh perfectly with the meat. Their authentic Philly style is enough to rival Geno's or Pat's even!
Hope you've enjoyed some of these road trip culinary delight ideas!
Until we eat again, Yours in deliciousness
Mr. Bites
Fried Oreos at Nice Guys in Cape Coral
Mofongo at Mi Tierra in Kendall
David Caruso Financial Advisor, FL
Alex Wenthe
Advisor,
Emily James Art
Visit a Native Floridian Artist’s Gallery Today
Emily has received recognition of her talent through numerous awards and honors. She is the only artist in the United States selected by the top three fine art publishers, and two of her images have been among the top 50 selling prints worldwide. Emily was also selected as an Outstanding American Woman in the Arts, and is a signature member of the Florida Watercolor Society, being featured in the book, ‘The Best of Watercolor’. With her acrylics and oils on canvas, Emily has also received numerous Best-in-Show ribbons. Known for her versatility in both subject and style, she enjoys painting landscapes, seascapes, abstracts, contemporary works, and portraits. Emily specializes in creating custom artwork with the feeling, colors, and subjects the owner will enjoy viewing.
JULY 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 1ST
Entangled in the Mangroves: Florida Everglades Through Installation
The Baker Museum at Artis Naples | 10:00 AM
‘Entangled in the Mangroves’ features 10 artists based in Florida who explore different aspects of the Everglades, with a focus on climate change so as to raise awareness about the critical situation affecting the ecosystem. The project includes a diverse range of media, a multi-sensory installation, a reading room and an educational program. Tuesday-Saturday: 10am-4pm, Sunday: Noon4pm, Monday: Closed.
JULY 1ST
The Faces of Immokalee
Lipman Family Farms, 200 E Main Street, Immokalee, 34142 | 10:00 AM
Created by Naples portrait photographer Michelle Tricca and 4.5 years in the making with support from Florida Dept of State, Division of Arts & Culture, and the National Endowment for the Arts, this first-of-its-kind art exhibition in Collier County aims to champion the Immokalee community thru a series of boldly displayed B&W photographic portraits.
JULY 1ST
Explore the South America Trail at The Naples Zoo!
Naples Zoo | 10:00 AM
Visit Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens to discover the South America Trail, featuring many new species, including the Baird’s Tapir, Capybaras, Toco Toucan, and Southern Screamers!
