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WINTER 26 | ATLANTAVUE.COM

ATLANTA’S CHOPPED CHAMPION CHRISTAN WILLIS X BMW BUYING YOUR FIRST YACHT ART BASEL MIAMI

Y O U R G E TAWAY Y O U R H O M E C O M I N G South Walton’s turquoise water, 26 miles of sugar-white sand, a nd 1 6 b each neigh b or h o o ds in N or thwest Flor id a ef for tles sly blend natural beauty, modern amenities , world class cuisine, and s m a l l tow n c h a r m t h a t d r aw ge n e r a t i o n s to ge t h e r ye a r af te r ye a r.

ROOMS WITH A VIEW From resor ts to boutique hotels , South Walton is home to unique architec ture, breathtaking views and accommodations to suit any style.

The Pearl Hotel brings luxur y and sophistication to South Walton, featuring beautifully appointed accommodations, destination-worthy cuisine and a welcoming spa. Guests also enjoy complimentary beach chairs and oversized umbrellas. ThePearlRB.com •

Situated on the pristine sugar-white beaches of South Walton, WaterColor Inn perfectly encapsulates coastal comfort while providing distinguished service and family-friendly resort amenities for a memorable beach vacation. WaterColorResort.com •

MIRAMAR BEACH • SEASCAPE • SANDESTIN • DUNE ALLEN • GULF PLACE • SANTA ROSA BEACH • BLUE MOUNTAIN BEACH • GRAYTON BEACH • WATERCOLOR

STEP AWAY AND GE T CLOSER South Walton has a way of slowing down time…an ease that invites you to relax and play. From the moment your feet touch the sand, you’re home. Find your perfect beach at VisitSouthWalton.com.

SEASIDE • SEAGROVE • WATERSOUND • SEACREST • ALYS BEACH • ROSEMARY BEACH • INLET BEACH AT L A N TAV U E .CO M 3

MAKE EVERY DAY LEGENDARY.

PHOTO CREDIT: Cean Williams, CBW Portraits

You’ve worked hard to get here – now enjoy going everywhere else. The 2026 BMW X7 full-size SUV features luxurious finishes, expert engineering, and spacious freedom for driving comfort from the inside out. This is the Ultimate Driving Machine®. Contact a Client Advisor at your Atlanta area BMW Center to schedule a test drive today.

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Elevate your events to new heights at The Commerce Club Atlanta. Located on the 49th floor, with breathtaking skyline views, exceptional cuisine, and a commitment to excellence, we provide an experience that will leave your guests in awe. invitedclubs.com/clubs/commerce-club-atlanta

Spanning 12,850 square feet of versatile meeting rooms and event spaces, The Commerce Club Atlanta is perfect for corporate and social gatherings of any size or style. Whether you’re hosting a board meeting, a gala, or an intimate dinner, we provide seamless AV functionality, with reliable WiFi to ensure everything runs flawlessly. Our expert team will handle every detail, tailoring each element to your vision. Although a Members club, non-members are welcome to experience the exclusivity of our prestigious club for your next event. For private events in Atlanta, The Commerce Club sets the standard for excellence. Let us help you create memories that last a lifetime.

Heritage in every stitch. Innovation in every step.

The all-new Premiere Series

WINTER 2026

TABLE OF CONTENTS 20 ESPRESSO MARTINI

The winter cocktail everyone should master.

EXPENSIVE 22 MOST CHOCOLATE A look inside the world’s most indulgent confections.

OF THE MONTH: 24 CAR LAND ROVER

Performance, design, and off-road elegance.

26 WINES FOR THE SEASON Bold reds, winter whites, and celebratory pours worth uncorking now.

THE YACHT EDIT Inside the World of First-Time Yacht Ownership.

VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT GUIDE

BMW X CHEF CHRISTAN WILLIS

Curated pieces that are beyond the expected.

When culinary artistry meets automotive precision.

30 ABYAMC

The revolutionary European cookware you need.

REVUE | 32 HOTEL WESTIN ATLANTA PERIMETER

Comfort, convenience, and refined city stays.

34 RESTAURANT REVUE: JULES A fresh perspective on refined dining.

ON THE COVER:

SAMANTHA TAN

The racecar champion is pushing the limits on and off the racetrack.

WINTER 2026

TABLE OF CONTENTS 52 BVLGARI

Inside the New Minaudière Collection

58 ICEHOTEL

Sleeping inside art at the world’s most ephemeral hotel.

62 BUNGALOWS KEY LARGO

An adults-only escape rooted in calm and coastal ease.

68 RITZ-CARLTON REYNOLDS, LAKE OCONEE Southern luxury set against still waters and winter light.

72 SYDNEE FALKNER

The Million Dollar Secret reality star on playing the game and what's next.

RESORT 78 AVA CANCUN

A modern take on all-inclusive luxury in Mexico.

84 ART BASEL MIAMI Where art, fashion, and culture converged this winter.

88 NORTH CAROLINA From mountain retreats to quiet charm, North Carolina has it all.

92 NAKATO

A legacy restaurant enters a new era.

96 HYDROW

Redefining at-home fitness through design and performance.

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EDITORIAL

BRIAN KOVENER Publisher & Founder

ONOLEE OBERRENDER Creative Director

HAYLEY R. SCHULTZ Managing Editor

ELISSA ROSEN Media Director

ALEENA HERROD Social Media Director

1100 Peachtree St NE, Suite 200 | Atlanta, GA 30309 Phone: 404.566.7273 Visit www.atlantavue.com for our exclusive blog. The publisher takes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information or claims of any advertiser in this publication. The advertiser is soley responsible for the information, statements, claims or warranties mentioned in their advertorial or advertisement. Reproduction of, or use without written permission of the publisher, of editorial, periodical, or design content of any manner is strictly prohibited.

Xavier Carwell Leighanna Maddox Fletcher Martin Andrew McCrory Tahtiyana Miller Vanessa Pascale Brody Terrrell Raquel Thomas

DESIGN TEAM Antonia Cifuentes Morgan Schimek Victoria Shelton

COVER PHOTO George Bucur Joy Wong

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Oriana Schneps Michael Solender

MARKETING Alaina Cash Emily Fitzpatrick Taima Joseph Kennedy May Rachel McClellan Tamara Mustafa Paul Peterson Paxton Yeste

PUPLISHER Bishop

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DEAR READER, There’s something grounding about the start of a new year. Not in a loud, declarative way, but in the quiet opportunity to take stock, adjust, and move forward with intention. This winter issue marks our first of 2026, and it felt right to open it with someone who knows focus under pressure. Our cover star, Samantha Tan, operates in a world where precision matters, preparation is everything, and progress is earned lap by lap. There’s no shortcut on the track – only consistency, discipline, and trust in the process. That mindset mirrors how we approach VUE. Growth isn’t always about being louder or faster, sometimes, it’s about refining, strengthening, and staying true to why you started. This year, we’re diving deeper into the stories, experiences, and people that make Atlanta feel alive. Expect more issues, more events, and more ways to connect with the people, places, and ideas shaping our city. Atlanta continues to evolve, and it’s a privilege to tell these stories. From local innovators and entrepreneurs to community leaders and creatives, we aim to celebrate the people, ideas, and experiences that make our city feel vibrant, purposeful, and human. Just like Samantha on the track, progress comes from consistency, commitment, and belief in the journey itself. At VUE, we carry that mindset into every story we tell, every partnership we nurture, and every event we host. Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to a year ahead that’s focused, forward-moving, and full of the moments, people, and experiences that make Atlanta feel like home.

BRIAN KOVENER FOUNDER, VU E ATLANTA BRIAN@ATLANTAVUE .COM

SV BLACK

2026 RANGE ROVER LAND ROVER GWINNETT 3423 Old Norcross Rd, Duluth, GA 30096, (844) 939-5364 SCHEDULE YOUR TEST DRIVE TODAY www.landrovergwinnett.com European model shown: 2026 Range Rover SV Black with optional equipment. © 2025 Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC

LETTER FROM THE

MANAGING EDITOR In this industry, we are always looking outward, chasing what's next. But at the start of this year, I found myself looking back. The past twelve months were marked by movement across places, industries, and ideas, and each experience left such a lasting imprint on how I approach storytelling and this work as a whole. Fittingly, 2025 was the year of the Snake, a year filled with transformation, intuition, and growth. This year took me everywhere. Across landscapes, cities, and creative spaces, from Western North Carolina to New York and Mexico, alongside collaborations with global luxury brands like Bvlgari, the contrast between experiences was striking. One offered stillness and a renewed appreciation for place. The other reflected precision, heritage, and craftsmanship at the highest level. Together, they truly changed my perspective in the most meaningful ways. In between those moments were conversations that stayed with me. Sitting down with Chef Christan Willis was one of them. Our conversation extended far beyond food. It centered on intention, discipline, and what it means to build something thoughtful in Atlanta right now. These exchanges continue to shape how I approach the stories we share at VUE. Travel has a way of opening your eyes. It reminds you that inspiration or personality is not confined to one location, and that the most beautiful stories often live at the intersection of community and curiosity. And this past year reinforced that truth and showed me a path that I am so excited to take into the season ahead. As we run into 2026, the Year of the Fire Horse, there is this pace that feels impossible to ignore. Fire Horse energy is bold, exciting, and unapologetically chaotic. And I can tell we are all entering this year with the same momentum and curiosity about where we want to go next. Here is to a promised year filled with purpose and confidence to keep pushing forward. Thank you for being part of this journey and for continuing to read, support, and grow with us.

MANAGING EDITOR | VUE ATLANTA IG: HAYLEY.RROSE

C H EERS TO A N EW YE A R A ND AN OTH ER CH A N C E FO R U S TO GET I T R IG H T.” — OPRAH WIN F REY

Our Espresso Martini is made with 100% Colombian Espresso, 6X Distilled Vodka, Caramelized Brown Sugar and is 20% alcohol/vol. Simply add to a shaker with ice, shake well and pour for an amazing crema head!

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Luxury meets Heart An elegant setting. Thoughtful service. A celebration designed around your love story— where every moment feels intimate, elevated, and unmistakably yours.

VOTED #1 HOTEL IN ATLANTA BY TRAVEL + LEISURE WORLD’S BEST 2025

TO’AK THE MOST EXPENSIVE

Chocolate IN THE WORLD

BY FLETCHER MARTIN I N A W O R L D W H E R E C H O C O L AT E I S TOO OFTEN REDUCED TO MASSP R O D U C E D C A N D Y B A R S , T O ’A K I S R E W R I T I N G T H E N A R R AT I V E .

Founded by three friends in Ecuador, To’ak wasn’t created to be expensive, it was created to be extraordinary. Born from a rainforest reforestation project, the team’s mission was to elevate chocolate to the level of vintage wine or aged whisky. To’ak sources its cacao from Piedra de Plata, home to the rare and once-thoughtextinct Ancient Nacional cacao. Their approach is “tree-to-bar,” with the entire process—farming, fermentation, aging, and packaging—done by hand in Ecuador. The result? A limited-edition chocolate experience that starts at over $200 per bar and has earned the title of the most expensive chocolate in the world. But To’ak doesn’t wear that label lightly. “If it were up to us,” the founders say, “we’d rather be known as the most valuable chocolate in the world.” Each release is designed like a work of art: custom wood boxes, vintage-style aging, and complex flavor notes that vary by harvest year. Ultimately, To’ak is not just a luxury confection, it’s a reminder that chocolate was once sacred, and that true craft still matters. EXPLORE MORE AT TOAKCHOCOLATE.COM. 2 2 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

YOUR WORLD, TRIDENT DRIVEN The all new Maserati Grecale. The Grecale lineup is where Italian appeal meets dynamic possibilities. Artisan innovation and thrilling performance unite with top-class roominess and refined comfort in the Grecale SUV. The interior of the Grecale exudes Itallian essence through its aesthetic and intention with the use of noble materials and innovative techniques to make a bold statement of exclusivity. Find your constant inspiration in a world of motion.

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THE 2025 LAND ROVER

DEFENDER 130

AVAILABLE AT LAND ROVER GWINNETT CURATED BY: XAVIER CARWELL 2 4 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

Where culinary artistry meets heartfelt hospitality. Rooted in the rich and diverse traditions of Euro-Mediterranean cuisine, every dish we serve is a celebration of flavor, heritage, and creativity.

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Discover a curated selection of remarkable bottles chosen for their craftsmanship, character, and ability to elevate any occasion. From bright, expressive whites to bold red blends and collector-worthy bottles, these pours represent the

best of Napa Valley and beyond. Whether you’re toasting with friends, hosting a lavish dinner, or searching for a gift that reflects impeccable taste, these standout selections bring elegance, depth, and distinction to every glass.

FOR A GRAND FEAST Mount Veeder Winery 2022 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon — $70 A powerful yet refined mountain Cabernet with layers of black cherry, fig, bramble, cedar, and baking spice. Its structure and depth shine alongside grilled meats.

A BOLD BLEND The Prisoner 2023 Red Blend — $50 A complex mix of Zinfandel and bold red varietals, offering lush red and black fruit with sweet spice. A standout pairing for BBQ pork, smoked meats, or braised beef. 2 6 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

PERFECT FOR T H E T OA S T ( A N D THE HOST!) Double Diamond 2023 Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc — $55 The debut white from Double Diamond, crafted from Napa’s famed To Kalon and Wappo Hill vineyards. Bright and aromatic with green apple, key lime, white peach, and floral notes. A fresh, vibrant match for rich, creamy sides.

WHERE DEPTH MEETS DARING The Prisoner 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon — $60

T O S H O W O F F YO U R G R E A T TA S T E Robert Mondavi Winery 2022 The Estates Red Blend — $95

A Cabernet-driven blend with notes of black coffee, dried red berries, and subtle holiday spice. Its richness complements prime rib, ribeye, and rosemary-garlic lamb chops flawlessly.

A luxurious blend of all five Bordeaux varietals from the renowned To Kalon Vineyard. Rich with dark plum, sage, licorice, berries, and warm spice, ideal with herb-roasted meats, aged cheeses, or dark chocolate.

FOR A SIP THAT GIVES BACK The Prisoner 2022 Corrections Stags Leap Red Wine — $100 A limited-edition collector’s release bridging art and activism, featuring Jesse Krimes’ “Purgatory” artwork. A bold blend with blue fruit and spice, perfect for roasted meats and holiday roasts. AT L A N TAV U E .CO M 2 7

Test Before You Buy

Yacht BY ORIANA SCHNEPS

Lessons from the Deck Let’s start with a disclaimer: I’m not a yacht broker, nor have I ever bought a yacht. But after spending my career working aboard them, serving the ultra-wealthy, managing crew, and navigating the intricacies of life at sea, I’ve seen more yacht transactions up close than some brokers. What follows isn’t a sales pitch, it’s a collection of insights from the crew’s perspective, what brokers might not tell you, but what you’ll absolutely want to know before you sign on the dotted line.

You wouldn’t buy a car without taking it for a spin first, yet many first-time yacht owners do exactly that. Chartering before purchasing is the most valuable step you can take. It gives you the chance to discover what truly enhances your time on the water. You may think you’re drawn to one particular builder, but trying a range of yachts often reveals features and design elements you never realized mattered to you. Until you’ve spent real time aboard different vessels, you simply don’t know what you don’t know.

Learn, Then Upgrade Here’s the truth: your first yacht probably won’t check every box, and that’s perfectly fine. Think of it as an education, not a final destination. Spend a couple of seasons, say 24 to 36 months, learning how you actually use the boat. Pay attention to the spaces you gravitate toward, the cruising ranges that feel right, and which systems genuinely enhance your time onboard. During this learning phase, opt for a dependable, well-built yacht from a proven builder. It will spare you maintenance headaches and hold value when you’re ready to move up. As the old saying goes, “Every yacht is for sale.” Whether it’s your first or your sixth, you’ll keep refining your preferences as your lifestyle evolves.

Know Your Cruising Habits Before buying, take an honest look at how you want to experience life at sea. Are you picturing weekend escapes to nearby islands, extended cruising through the Med, or something more ambitious like seasonal living aboard? Be realistic about how many days a year you’ll spend onboard, your actual use dictates everything from budget to size. Consider who you’ll cruise with. Is this a family adventure, a social retreat with friends, or a private escape? The number of guests and crew will shape the layout and operating costs. Your own comfort level matters too. Will you take the helm yourself, or prefer a professional crew? Larger yachts come with more complex systems and higher upkeep, so matching vessel size and complexity to your experience will save you frustration. And remember: it’s worth reflecting on what you didn’t like aboard other yachts, whether that was a cramped layout, too much roll at anchor, or endless maintenance bills. Those lessons will guide your next move.

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PHOTO CREDIT: BRETT HOROWITZ

Think Beyond the Purchase Price The sticker price is just the beginning. Annual operating costs, crew salaries, fuel, dockage, insurance, and maintenance can easily total 10% of the yacht’s value each year. Building a realistic management plan early on ensures the yacht fits your lifestyle, not the other way around. Buying your first yacht isn’t about perfection. It’s about discovering what perfect means to you. The smartest owners treat their first yacht as an education, one that teaches them what they truly value at sea. Once you know that, the right yacht has a way of finding you.

Oriana Schneps Oriana Schneps, owner of The Yacht Edit, is a media entrepreneur and international yachting personality recognized for her work as an on-camera spokesperson and storyteller within the global yachting community. Best known for her role on Bravo’s Below Deck and appearances on multiple television programs, she combines firsthand industry expertise

with a sharp media sensibility. A former chief stewardess aboard superyachts exceeding 60 meters, Oriana now produces high-impact content for leading yacht brands and destinations worldwide, capturing the intersection of adventure, design, and the modern yachting lifestyle.

@orianaschneps | yachtedit.com

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BY ANDREW MCCRORY

The revolutionary European cookware you need, AbyAMC combines smart technology with Swiss precision and Italian craftmanship, featuring a collection of cookware sets from pots to pans and grills. Unlike anything else on the market, their cookware is designed to make cooking smarter, faster, and safer. Created to last a lifetime, every AbyAMC is backed by a 30-year warranty, ensuring this is an investment that will last for decades. Still have your great-grandmother’s cast iron? Your new AbyAMC cookware will be passed on to generations to come as well. Whether you’re a seasoned chef in the industry, a home cook looking to make healthier meals in less time, or just starting your culinary journey, discover a smarter way to cook with AbyAMC, “where heritage meets innovation in your kitchen.” AbyAMC lineup is perfect for those wanting an easy way to experiment in the kitchen. Ever had a bigger pan where food in the middle cooks way too fast? Worry no more because all the cookware is reinforced with a double base layer of steel to guarantee uniform heat distribution across the cooking surface for reliable and consistent cooking results. Even heat distribution promotes gentle heat control as well, sustaining valuable vitamins in your food, ensuring healthier dishes with more flavor and finesse. The cookware features stay-cool, two-in-one handles, which use Thermobloc technology for safe handling during cooking. Thermobloc is often used in espresso machines and it heats water by passing it through a metal block with heating elements. This can also be used to rapidly regulate temperatures. These handles are also featured on AbyAMC lids, making stirring and seasoning as you go effortless. 3 0 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

The Essential Collection

Rondeau

Standouts from the cookware lineup are available in the 7-piece Essential Collection (retail price $995, a value of $1,195). The items found in this collection include: Rondeau ($360) is a versatile piece to have in any kitchen. With its wide base that prevents food from sticking and evenly distributes heat, AbyAMC cookware reduces the need for excess butter and oil. The Rondeau is ideal for braising, sautéing, slow cooking, and more. EasyQuick Steaming Lid ($280) transforms the Rondeau, Saucepan, or Stock Pot into a high-performance steamer, reducing cooking time by up to 20% while locking in flavor and nutrients. Every AbyAMC lid is equipped with a special gauge called a Visiotherm that monitors the internal temperature of the cookware to reduce the guesswork during the cooking process. In addition to the Visiotherm which is on every AbyAMC lid, there is added technology with the Audiotherm ($125). When attached to any lid in the AbyAMC collection, the Audiotherm monitors the precise cooking temperatures and time control like the Visiotherm but takes this technology a step further. The Audiotherm gives a clear signal when it’s time to act, protecting your food from burning or drying out and reducing the need to constantly supervise your dish. Additionally, the Audiotherm is connected to the AbyAMC official Cook&Go app on iOS and Android that allows you to monitor the cooking process without being tethered to the stove. You can also explore new recipes to try with step-by-step instructions through the Cook&Go app as well. The Frying Pan ($365) with lid is made with durable stainless steel that is designed to conduct heat evenly to ensure consistency when searing, roasting, and frying without excessive butter and oil. The Softiera Steaming Basket ($65) is a steaming basket that can be used with the Rondeau or Stock Pot. Steaming foods helps preserve the nutrients, and helps maintain the nutritional benefits of your meals for a healthier option.

EasyQuick Steaming Lid

Audiotherm

The Frying Pan

The Softiera Steaming Basket

With a decades-long experience and reputation across Europe, AbyAMC finally reaches a new market in the U.S. Upgrade your kitchen experience with cookware that elevates your style and will be the “last pots you’ll ever buy! AT L A N TAV U E .CO M 3 1

THE WESTIN AT L A N TA P E R I M E T E R N O R T H

BY TAHTIYANA MILLER

Sandy Springs’ Lakefront Sanctuary In a location where commerce and culture constantly converge, true luxury lies in finding an unexpected retreat that maintains a sophisticated edge. And truthfully, The Westin Atlanta Perimeter North delivers this with undeniable panache. Fresh off a dazzling multimillion-dollar renovation, the hotel provides a seamless sanctuary, redefining the Perimeter experience by blending effortless corporate access with unexpected tranquility. Stepping into the refreshed lobby, you immediately feel the city’s volume drop to a sophisticated whisper. It’s a study in warm, modern design, accented by thoughtfully curated art installations and tactile, rich finishes in a vibrant space that encourages lingering. The Westin has truly elevated its arrival experience. But the real surprise? The hotel is spectacularly situated on the serene banks of Concourse Lagoon, where manicured gardens meet reflective water, a visual spectacle few city hotels can claim.

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This philosophy of comfort and restoration is most evident in the guest quarters. The rooms, bright and airy, feature floor-to-ceiling windows that act as living canvases, framing the tranquil lake views. And then there’s the iconic Heavenly Bed®. Can we just talk about this? It’s not just bedding; it’s a promise of profound, restorative sleep, the kind that makes you forget deadlines even exist. This commitment to guest wellness is the secret ingredient, ensuring the overall experience is nothing short of exceptional. The hotel’s culinary offerings also assert a delicious edge. The SAVOR bar & kitchen offers sophisticated Southerninspired fare, executed with contemporary precision. The dining experience here is mandatory, especially when enjoyed on the outdoor patio overlooking the water. Imagine savoring a beautifully crafted cocktail as the fire pits glow, casting a warm light over Concourse Lagoon in its pure ambiance.

The proximity to the City Green area is a huge draw. This beautiful green space is home to a year-round calendar of events and concerts, providing a sophisticated outdoor entertainment venue just a short ride away.

In the end, The Westin Atlanta Perimeter North manages a delicate feat. It maintains its strategic convenience while offering the kind of stylish, serene, and revitalizing atmosphere that feels like a treasured secret. For those who demand it all, executive access, lakefront serenity, and local edge, this hotel is the definitive, must-stay recommendation.

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A Sophisticated Southern Culinary Journey AT B A R N S L E Y R E S O R T BY RAQUE L T HOM AS

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Jules is nestled within the sprawling 3,000acre Barnsley Resort in North Georgia. The restaurant represents a bold new chapter in Southern dining. Here, tradition meets innovation, and every dish tells a story. Under the visionary leadership of Executive Chef Shaun Doty, a James Beard nominee renowned for his work at Atlanta's The Federal, this intimate restaurant has quickly established itself as a destination for those seeking an elevated yet approachable culinary experience rooted in the region's rich heritage. The moment guests arrive at Jules, they're welcomed with the option of ordering a signature "Hey Jules" cocktail, a refreshing concoction crafted with blue agave vodka that sets the tone for an evening of delightful surprises. This opening gesture exemplifies the restaurant's philosophy: everything on the menu features an unexpected twist that honors Southern roots while embracing global influences. Chef Doty's three decades of experience, including training under legendary Chef Guenter Seeger and time spent in Michelin-starred kitchens across France and Belgium, shines through in every carefully composed plate. AT L A N TAV U E .CO M 3 5

The menu at Jules is a masterclass in creative Southern cuisine. The salmon and caviar arrives atop a buckwheat waffle providing an earthy, textured foundation and unexpected depth to the luxurious pairing. The oysters, reimagined with a turnip green-driven Southern flair, transform a humble staple into something extraordinary. These dishes showcase Doty's gift for taking familiar ingredients and presenting them through a lens that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary. For the main course, the New York strip steak exemplifies the restaurant's commitment to quality and precision. Cooked to a perfect medium with a beautiful rosé center, the steak emerges from Jules' centerpiece Josper charcoal grill, a Spanish-made cooking instrument known for imparting rustic elegance and exceptional flavor. This dedication to sourcing premium ingredients extends to the beverage program, where the wine selection proves equally impressive. Chef Doty, resort beverage experts, and resort beverage partners have curated an amazing wine and beverage collection that perfectly complements Chef Doty's globally-inspired Southern cuisine. Throughout the meal, guests are served Artesian Mountain Valley Spring Water from Arkansas's Ouachita Mountains, a thoughtful detail that underscores Jules'

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commitment to quality in every aspect of the dining experience. The meal concludes with a signature send-off that's both whimsical and indulgent: peanut butter balls dipped in rich chocolate, chilled to perfection, and crowned with a pecan. This sweet finale encapsulates everything Jules represents with Southern tradition elevated through careful technique and creative vision. Beyond the exceptional food, Jules occupies a historically significant structure originally built in 1854 and relocated to Barnsley Resort in 1994. As part of the resort's multimillion dollar renovation, David Thompson Studio has transformed Jules into a warm, inviting environment where four distinct dining areas including a private salon, sophisticated bar, and two unique dining rooms come together in harmonious celebration of the building's storied past. Jules is more than a restaurant, it's a culinary stage where Chef Doty's purposeful creativity, seasonal storytelling, and deep respect for Southern heritage converge to create an unforgettable dining experience that delights and surprises at every turn.

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Authenticity50 NW Wool Throw | $219

Bvlgari Serpenti Cuore 1968 Top Handle | $5150

Bushmills 16 Year Old Single Malt Whiskey | $166.99

Fabbrica Della Musa Opera Infernal Perfume | $295 Ehlers Estate 1886 Cabernet Sauvignon | $160

Piper-Heidsieck Brut Rosé | $78 3 8 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

April & Ashley Hearts Rose Bouquet | $69

Norman Love Confections 50 Piece Signature Gift Box | $118

BEIIN The All-Over Oil | $42

WATSON Hayley Body Suit | $325

Palmaz 2021 Palmaz Napa Valley Cabernet | $185

Vitalina Ghinzelli Scarlet | $800

Mozy Thermal Wrap | $129

KitchenAid Ceramic Non-Stick Cookware Set | $239 Charles Krug Generations Napa Valley Red Blend | $85

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Rare Champagne Rare Millesime Rose | $500 AT L A N TAV U E .CO M 3 9

IMAGE Skincare Recovery Skincare System | $187

Casekoo Airlov Magic Stand Case | $109

Ron del Barrilito Rum Three Stars Rum | $43.99

Big Ass Luxuries The Baby Big Ass Bundle | $257

The Caviar Co Well Traveled Trio Cooler Gift Set | $388

TAFT The Luke in Bordeaux | $299

The Mediterranean Dish TMD Signature EVOO Bundle | $110.99 4 0 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

Oliver Thomas Maxed Out Wanderlust Tote | $225

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Tequila Centinela Centinela Eterno Cristalino | $65

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There’s a chill in the air on the October afternoon that Samantha and I meet. This season, she is the only female racecar driver on the grid in her series, the IMSA VP Racing Challenge. The petite beauty is in her racing suit and “war paint” (aka makeup). Her brunette locks are in perfect waves. Samantha’s beauty routine is a part of her racing ritual. “I don't need it to feel confident. It honestly just sets the tone for the day,” says the team owner of Samantha Tan Racing. “I love the process of it. I love it as my creative outlet. It's about being authentic to myself at the beginning of the day. When I first started racing, it was kind of shunned to show any femininity because people would look at me and be like, ‘Oh, you're just trying to be a model, ' or ‘You're here for attention.’ It was about showing them that I could still be a successful woman, put on whatever makeup I wanted, and still beat the boys and show them femininity is strength, for me, at least.” Our conversation begins indoors, shielded from the noise of racecars speeding by, and continues on the track, until Samantha is tucking her hair into her helmet and taking her place in line for the race. “I'm always feeling a mix of emotions on race day. I always get nervous before a race,” says Samantha, who calms her nerves by listening to upbeat music, like Doja Cat, Tate McRae, and Sabrina Carpenter. “But as soon as the helmet gets on, I calm down immediately. I get in the car, I'm in the zone, and everything else fades away.” (Samantha does not listen to music while she’s on the track as she needs to be focused and able to hear her team.) BY VAN ES S A PAS CALE

Racecars zoom by as I watch in awe. I am at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in Braselton for Motul Petit Le Mans. Championship racecar driver Samantha Tan is competing here these next couple of days. Standing steps away from the track on a race day is exhilarating. You can't help imagining your hands gripping the car’s steering wheel, your foot on the gas pedal, and the feeling of your body melting into the seat as the car accelerates. The danger, the power – what a feeling, I imagine. This is a normal day for Samantha. 4 2 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

As a child growing up in Canada, Samantha’s father –a car/BMW enthusiast and racing fan– brought her to car shows and car meets. When Samantha was old enough to drive, her father enrolled her in a performance driving school, so that she could handle a car in the rain and snow. “At the end of one of these programs, I got to sit in my very first racecar and I had a professional driver taking me out for a lap. I remember having the biggest smile on my face. As soon as I was out of the car, I was like, ‘I think I want to be a racecar driver, too!’” She fondly credits her dad as the spark for her passion for racing. “We've definitely bonded a lot over our passion for cars and racing,” says the 28-year-old. Most professional drivers start out go-karting. Since Samantha started later (at 16 years old), she jumped right into racecars. This minor disadvantage

PHOTO CRE D IT: G EORG E BUCUR

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PHOTO CRE D IT: JOY WONG

didn’t stop Samantha from outperforming her competition. Racing professionally for eleven years now, Samantha has garnered an impressive list of achievements, including landing on Forbes’ “30 Under 30” list in 2025. She shares her top three: “The first time I won the championship in 2021. I won all six championship titles I was eligible for. So, that was a team championship, driver championship. Very big moment! I became the first Asian woman to win a major international endurance racing championship. And being the first in the world to win with this new BMW racecar; becoming a part of the BMW history books was really cool.” Working with BMW is a dream come true and a partnership Samantha manifested. “BMW is what sparked my passion for cars. I was always around them. It was one of the first cars I drove. I drove a BMW at my first ever racing school. They've really been a constant in my life. I always had the goal of wanting to work with BMW. I feel like I spoke it into existence.” Today, Samantha is exclusive to BMW and the only BMW Motorsport Global Ambassador in the world. In 2025, Samantha took part in her first race ever at Le Mans in France. Her “ultimate, ultimate goal” is to race at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the top endurance race in the world. “It's something every driver aspires to. If anybody has seen Ford v Ferrari, it's the race featured in that movie. It's a good racing movie.” Being a racecar driver takes great preparation. Samantha is in the gym 4-5 days a week training and doing lots of cardio. Hydrating is also key. Her routine changes depending on the race coming up: sprint vs. endurance (the latter is like a 24-hour relay race with 3-5 drivers). “For endurance

races, specifically, sleep banking. I try to get as much rest as I possibly can before a 24-hour, because I know I’m going to get two hours of sleep during the race. Nutrition plays a big role as well.” You're at the end of the racing season, what’s next? “This is my very first season in this series called IMSA; this is the top sportscar series in North America. It was a very big step up for me to get into this series. Coming to the final race, I'm leading the championship. Essentially, every race you earn a certain amount of points based on your position or finishing position of that race and whoever accumulates the most points over the course of the season wins the championship. So, I have been very, very consistent, very successful, had six wins so far this season, and four podiums, so coming out on top of the points right now. Hoping to win because it'll be my first GT3 championship win as well and using that experience moving forward. I'm just looking towards bigger series, bigger races and continue doing my own thing.” How did you become a team owner? “It came out of necessity. It was never really a plan in my mind. For context, a lot of drivers will rent a car from a team for a season. And that's what I was doing when I first started racing. In one of my very early seasons, I think it was the second or third year of me racing, paid out for the whole season, was already committed, and the team went bankrupt after the first race. They had no idea how they were going to pay us back for the whole season that we had paid for. So, they gave me the race car. Now, I had a race car on my hands. I had no team to support it and I was like, ‘Oh, no, AT L A N TAV U E .CO M 4 5

what do I do?’ Was honestly left with that question, ‘Do I continue racing? Like, what do I do at this point?’” Luckily, there was another Canadian team that was on the grid that year and we worked out a deal with them. And that was the start of Samantha Tan Racing and snowballed the idea of starting my own team. As I learned more about being a team owner, I really liked having more control over the operations, logistics and having more control of the choices there.” What's the most challenging thing about your profession? “I think what every athlete can relate to is this constant pursuit of perfection. You're always pushing yourself past your limits and trying to find your potential. Often, it can get really exhausting and sometimes toxic. You really have to take a step back sometimes and look at your achievements and see everything that you have achieved and really sit with that.” Are there any preconceived notions about racecar drivers that you’d like to dispel? “That we have everything all together; that we have no fear in the world. It's not true! We're all human. To this day, even after all the successes and how many races I've done, I still get nervous, but I think that just means I care. Other than that, that we're super-aggressive people. I think I'm a very kind soul, honestly. I can be aggressive on track, though.” You’ve been posting vulnerable videos on social media. Tell me more about that. “Social media has played a really big role in my career… like a free marketing tool for myself. But it's also been a really great way for me to build my own community. It’s about being able to connect with my community, learn more about my fans, and bring them along for the journey. I think it's really cool to be able to show them the behind-the-scenes aspect. That vulnerable post was showing the human side of everything. A lot of social media is polished nowadays, and I just wanted to show that there's still a human behind the screen.” 4 6 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

YOU'RE ALWAYS PUSHING YOURSELF PAST YOUR LIMITS.”

...KICKING DOWN THE DOOR FOR THE NEXT GENERATION.” What are you doing in your free time?

Is there anything you’d like to add?

“I'm barely home [Irvine, CA], so when I'm not traveling, I love cooking, hiking, going for drives. I'm a classical pianist. A lot of gaming, actually–a game called Genshin Impact, it's a very cozy game. Nothing chaotic.”

“I sponsored my first young karting driver, a 10-year-old girl named Aylee. She came to one of my races this year in Canada. To almost see myself in her, it was such a proud moment for me, probably one of the proudest in my career: to be kicking down the door for the next generation.”

What kind of food are you cooking? “I've been trying to reconnect with my Asian heritage and try out more Japanese cuisine, but also Chinese cuisine. I'm Chinese, but I love Japanese food. I cook a lot of Italian food.”

Does she want to be a racecar driver? “She does! She's finishing out her season this year [2025].” AT L A N TAV U E .CO M 47

PHOTO CREDIT: CEAN WILLIAMS, CBW PORTRAITS

BY HAYLEY R. SCHULTZ

CHEF CHRISTAN WILLIS X BMW 4 8 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

For Chopped Champion Chef Christan Willis, collaboration has never been about spectacle alone. It’s about intention, how ideas come together, how stories take shape, and how an experience stays with you long after the last bite. Her partnership with BMW didn’t happen in a flash of luck or a single defining moment. It grew out of shared values and creative alignment, slowly revealing itself as an opportunity to think bigger, stretch further, and build something truly immersive.

called for something ambitious: a private evening hosted in a Buckhead mansion, a fleet of vehicles framing the entrance, and forty influential guests invited into an experience designed to feel as elevated as it was unexpected. Chef Christan was tapped to curate the menu, and then some. She staffed the kitchen, directed the evening’s flow, and transformed the dinner into a fully immersive experience where food, design, and interaction carried equal weight.

What followed was a defining collaboration. BMW’s first formal partnership with Atlanta Fashion Week

“I wanted every bite to feel intentional,” she says. “Not just plated beautifully, but experienced.”

Innovation became the throughline. Drawing directly from BMW’s mission (constant evolution, precision, performance), Chef Christan approached the menu as a narrative. Guests weren’t simply served, they were invited to engage. Nothing was passive. Each dish required participation, mirroring the brand’s ethos of movement and emotion. The response was immediate. BMW’s team was struck not just by the execution but also by how the food reflected the brand without mimicking it. It didn’t feel branded, it felt aligned. That alignment opened the door to something bigger. AT L A N TAV U E .CO M 4 9

Later that year, Chef Christan was invited to work with BMW Global on Holiday Hot Laps, a high-octane staff experience hosted at Ten Tenths Motor Club in Charlotte. The $100-million facility (designed by a veteran F1 driver) set a dramatically different stage. Guests strapped into helmets and took BMWs onto the track at speed. The food needed to match that rhythm: quick, refreshing, satisfying, and memorable. This time, Chef Christan worked alongside an in-house culinary team, overseeing execution while maintaining her creative imprint. The menu reflected global inspiration and intuitive pacing —tuna tartare on crispy rice spoons for guests on the move, jerk-marinated shrimp skewers, smashed plantains, and prime rib paired with a smoked Old Fashioned to set the tone. At the same time, a live cacio e pepe station invited guests to linger and connect. Her menu became a grounding moment between bursts of adrenaline. “You’re thinking about how people feel when they step off the track,” Chef Christan explains. “What they need next. That’s part of storytelling, too.” 5 0 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

Storytelling is a language Chef Christan speaks fluently. Before the kitchen, she studied journalism, a foundation she credits for shaping how she approaches hospitality today. Menus begin on paper before ingredients are touched. The atmosphere matters as much as the flavor. Lighting, flow, first impressions. Every element contributes to how a guest remembers the experience. That sensibility also informs her leadership. Whether managing an 11-person kitchen team under pressure or coordinating front-of-house timing down to the second, Chef Christan leads with clarity and trust. “You can’t hover,” she says. “You have to prepare, delegate, and believe in your people.”

It’s a philosophy honed over years in finedining restaurants, from television competition kitchens to private dining for athletes and high-profile celebrities. Yet this chapter feels different. More deliberate. More expansive. What excites Chef Christan most about her partnership with BMW isn’t what’s already happened, but what still feels possible. While other luxury automotive brands have long-standing relationships with chefs, BMW’s culinary presence remains largely undefined. To Chef Christan, that space feels like an invitation. Not just for her, but for Atlanta as a whole. “This feels like an opportunity not just to work with luxury automotive brands, but to pave a way for other chefs who’ll follow.”

At the heart of it all is legacy. Chef Christan often speaks about her father, who encouraged her to take cooking seriously long before recognition followed. He passed in 2017 before witnessing her current culinary milestones, but his influence remains constant — in her discipline, her tools, and her work ethic. “He always told me, ‘If you’re going to do something, practice it a thousand times.’” It’s advice she still lives by. Chef Christans’ evolving partnership with BMW isn’t defined; she’s helping shape a new one in which food doesn’t simply accompany luxury but actively drives it forward. AT L A N TAV U E .CO M 5 1

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Luxury today is about precision, not volume. The Bvlgari Icons Minaudière Collection distills the House’s legacy into sculptural evening pieces that feel intimate by design—objects shaped by history, craftsmanship, and modern restraint. Designed by Mary Katrantzou, Creative Director of Leather Goods and Accessories, the collection reinterprets Bvlgari’s most recognizable symbols as precious-metal minaudières that exist somewhere between high jewelry and accessories. Drawing from more than 140 years of Roman jewelry-making mastery, each piece is crafted using techniques traditionally reserved for fine jewelry. Lost-wax casting defines the sculptural form, while hand-applied enamel, pavé settings, and gemstone inlays such as malachite, amethyst, and tiger’s eye add depth and dimension. Offered in two sizes, the classic minaudière and a miniature vanity, the designs blur the line between adornment and function with ease. Deliberately scaled to hold only the essentials, the minaudières reject excess. Too small for a phone by design, they place emphasis on intention over utility. What remains is presence, ritual, and the quiet confidence of carrying something chosen. At the heart of the collection are five Bvlgari icons, each expressing a different facet of the House’s visual language. Together, they form a cohesive vocabulary that is bold, architectural, and unmistakably Roman. BY HAYLEY R. SCHULTZ

Serpenti

Long a symbol of transformation and power, appears as a sculptural serpent head rendered in precious metal and hand-applied enamel. Hypnotic and protective.

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Monete Monete draws inspiration from ancient Roman coins once worn as talismans. Reimagined as a minaudière framed in enamel and gold, it bridges antiquity and modernity with quiet authority.

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Tubogas

Tubogas celebrates fluidity and form. Its coiled metal construction wraps structure around softness, showcasing Bulgari’s mastery of movement and balance.

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Divas’ Dream, inspired by the fan-shaped mosaics of the Baths of Caracalla, translates classical architecture into refined geometry accented with intricate gemstone inlays.

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Bvlgari Bvlgari BVLGARI BVLGARI distills the House’s signature into a bold cylindrical silhouette, defined by repetition, symmetry, and handintarsia mother of pearl.

The concept of “Carrying Culture” extends beyond design into storytelling. Photographed by Ethan James Green and creatively directed by Ferdinando Verderi, the campaign features five women whose influence reaches beyond fashion: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Linda Evangelista, Kim Ji-won, Isabella Rossellini, and Sumayya Vally. Each embodies one of the Icons, lending her perspective, and lived experience to its symbolism. In a thoughtful gesture, each minaudière is designed to carry a miniature book authored exclusively for the collection. Shaped to fit inside the bags themselves, the micro-volumes explore themes of tradition, transformation, calm, nature, and belonging. Culture becomes tangible—something to be held, carried, and passed forward. With the Icons Minaudière Collection, Bulgari offers a modern vision of luxury defined by intention rather than excess. These are not accessories designed to follow trends, but art created to carry meaning, memory, and identity, worn close to the body. AT L A N TAV U E .CO M 5 7

Dream Away in

ICEHOTEL An Arctic Art Experience

Made of Ice & Snow BY TAHTIYANA MILLER In the quiet village of Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, the world’s first hotel built entirely of ice and snow has once again opened its iconic doors. Now in its 36th year, ICEHOTEL 36 stands as a living art exhibition, a fleeting masterpiece crafted by 33 artists from 12 countries. Upon entering, guests are greeted by the 30-meter-long Main Hall, Cathedral Grove, where a glistening forest of icy treetops stretches toward the ceiling. From the shimmering art to the deep silence of the Arctic night, ICEHOTEL is more than a destination, it is a moment where guests truly become part of nature.

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A SYMPHONY OF ICE AND ART The creation of ICEHOTEL 36 is a year-long dialogue with the Torne River. Harvested in March and constructed in November, the 2,800-square-meter winter hotel required a team of 89 builders, artists, and designers to transform frozen water into world-class art. Under the direction of Creative Director Luca Roncoroni, this year’s build features a full-scale grand piano made of ice. “Assembling it was both nerve-racking and magical,” says Roncoroni. “We didn’t know if it would hold until the very last minute.” In the Ceremony Hall, ECHO, visitors can sit among the art to experience the beauty of the Arctic in quiet reflection, while the corridors echo with the music of the season. It is a place of ephemeral beauty that will, come spring, melt back into the river from which it came.

TWELVE SUITES, TWELVE VISIONS ICEHOTEL 36 features twelve immersive art suites, each inviting guests to sleep inside the imagination of world-renowned creators. From the eye of an icy storm to the outer reaches of space, every suite unfolds as a sculptural story, both dreamscape and destination. Guests might find themselves drifting at the center of a stormwind in Sweep Me Off My Feet, wandering through a luminous world of frozen spheres in Soap Bubbles, or experiencing the immense physical pull of a black hole in Spaghettification. In Arctic Archive, stories from the frozen past are preserved in ice, while other suites explore themes of survival, reflection, mythology, and the quiet poetry of the natural world. Together, the twelve suites transform ice into art, and sleep into an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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ON NATURE’S TERMS Beyond the frozen walls, the Arctic experience caters to all of the senses. At the ICEHOTEL Restaurant, local ingredients take center stage. Guests can enjoy a four-course Ice Menu served on crystal-clear blocks of Torne River ice, featuring flavors such as Kalix vendace roe, reindeer, sea buckthorn, and cloudberry. For a deeper culinary journey, the Veranda offers a Chef ’s Table with a twelve-course tasting menu inspired by the eight Sámi seasons. Outside, the wilderness beckons. Guests can try ice sculpting, join a snowmobile tour to witness the aurora (stronger right now than any in the past decade) or go dog sledding across rivers and forests. “Sleeping among art made of ice and snow, feeling the cold and the deep silence... something happens inside you,” says Marie Herrey, CEO of ICEHOTEL.

36 YEARS OF INNOVATION Founded by Yngve Bergqvist to create unique experiences shaped by nature, ICEHOTEL continues to welcome visitors from around the world. While the winter section melts each spring, ICEHOTEL 365 remains open yearround. The magic is also going global, with the recently opened ICEBAR in Copenhagen and the upcoming ICEBAR BY ICEHOTEL LONDON opening soon in the heart of the city.

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ICEHOTEL 36

by the Numbers 33 ARTISTS

from 12 COUNTRIES created the art in ICEHOTEL 36

12 ART SUITES

550 TONS of ice used

10 OLYMPIC SWIMMING POOLS (32,700 m³) of snis, a mix of snow and ice

220

HANDCRAFTED ICE CRYSTALS created the iconic chandeliers

ICEHOTEL 36 TEMPERATURE:

-5°C 257

ARTISTS

from 36 countries submitted entries

PEOPLE involved in building ICEHOTEL 36

6 WEEKS of construction

30,000 M³ OF SNIS (32,700 m³) (110 million ice lollies) used for floors, ceilings, and walls AT L A N TAV U E .CO M 6 1

BY B RO DY TERR ELL

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Situated on 11.5 waterfront acres, facing Buttonwood Sound at Mile Marker 99 in Key Largo, is an island oasis. Nestled inside a botanical garden edged by the ocean, Key Largo’s greatest escape is designed as an intimate destination for couples in search of the greatest luxury–time spent together. The Bungalows Key Largo is tailored for endless adventures, restorative wellness, unspoiled natural beauty, and divine disconnection from life on the mainland. Located in the Florida Keys, just south

Miami,

sandwiched

between the Florida Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, it is no wonder that most outdoor activities in Key Largo revolve around the water.

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COASTAL AND BOTANICAL ACCOMMODATIONS WITH A VIEW

Offering waterfront and garden options alike the resort is home to 135 individual bungalows surrounded by the reposeful Gulf of Mexico. The Bungalows offer an adult-only oasis welcoming guests 21 and older to slow down, enjoy nature, and reconnect with each other. Each bungalow comes outfitted with two cruiser bikes that can be ridden throughout the property. WELLNESS ENHANCED BY NATURE

A visit to the Zen Garden Spa invites guests to bask in luxurious treatments inspired by the sand and sea as well as the black bamboo of the Zen Garden. The spa hosts each member to a variety of exclusive perks: a whimsical eucalyptus steam room, a Himalayan salt therapy treatment room, and a plush indoor relaxation area. The spa has five outdoor treatment cabanas adjacent to the tranquil Zen Pool. Guests can also partake in the Fitness Tiki Hut, an open-air gym with state-of-the-art equipment. For the yoga enthusiasts, beginners and advanced alike will find well-suited classes available daily on Tranquility Beach. FLAVORS OF THE GULF COAST

Three distinct restaurants and an oceanfront Sunset Tiki Bar offer gourmet dining and premium drinks to guests. Sea Senor: Fresh, local seafood and the vibrant tastes of Mexico come together at this beachfront destination for lunch and dinner. Fish Tales: The essence of the Florida Keys shines through every dish at Fish Tales, the breezy eatery overlooks the ocean and infinity pool. Low-key and casual, all-day dining here includes a plentiful breakfast buffet complete with made-to-order omelets as well as Bloody Mary and mimosa stations. Bogie & Bacall’s: This sophisticated restaurant offers the perfect blend of fine dining and impeccable service. Indulge in an elegant steakhouse-style menu with locally-inspired seafood dishes and prime steaks. Sunset Tiki Bar: This poolside staple serves up a delectable menu of small bites featuring salads, burgers, pizzettes, fresh juice popsicles and more. They also serve a refreshing selection of tropical drinks, icy local brews, and handcrafted cocktails.

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AN ITINERARY OF SUNSETS, SAILING & SEASIDE SERENITY

Home to two serene Jacuzzis and two gorgeous, full service pools, the infinity, Sunset Pool sits oceanfront while the lush Zen Pool is tucked away amid tropical palms. Guests can choose to relax on a lounge chair, beachside, under an umbrella, or in a private beach or poolside cabana. Paddleboards and water trikes provide a fun and easy way to get a little workout in while taking in glorious views of the bay. Guests can paddle kayaks along the shoreline and explore the diverse marine and bird life. B.Y.O.B. aboard two tiki boats, S.S. Margarita and S.S. Rum Runner, and enjoy happy hour. Another option is to privately charter and captain a Duffy Electric Boat for a quiet, romantic cruise or daytime scenic tour. At night, guests can enjoy a leisurely sail aboard one of their spacious custom catamarans on the pristine Florida Bay while feasting on delicious charcuterie from the chef ’s kitchen and tasty libations from the bar. Here, you can watch the fiery sun sink slowly into the horizon. Boasting four different vessel options, guests can book a private, customizable charter during their time at Bungalows Key Largo. The WorldCat or Pontoon Boat are perfect for activities like sandbar lounging, snorkeling and sunset cruising. LIVE MUSIC AND ENDLESS MEMORIES

The Bungalows Key Largo offers live entertainment and activities included every day to enhance guests' stay. Guests can expect calypso sounds or acoustic music on Tiki Beach, a chance to showcase their vocal skills with karaoke, to test their knowledge with trivia or dance the night away with a live DJ. The resort also offers special events over holidays, such as a beach dinner party with endless food offerings, a spectacular fireworks display on July 4th and New Year’s Eve, festive events over Christmas, and a masquerade party for Halloween.

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SURF AND TURF EXPERIENCES

Home to tropical hardwoods, winding creeks, two state parks, a national park and a portion of a national marine sanctuary, Key Largo boasts some of the most fascinating botanical scenery in the state. Visitors can enjoy Key Largo’s ties to the sea including scuba diving, snorkeling, sport fishing, eco-tours, beaches and dolphin encounter programs. The island also offers numerous on-shore attractions including nature trails and a rehabilitation center for wild birds. Key Largo is flanked by the Everglades National Park to the west, a premier destination for kayakers, birders and other eco-tourists. To the east is the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef, and Key Largo has earned the moniker of Diving Capital of the World. Guests can depart from the Bungalow’s dock and spend the day exploring nature’s splendors above and below the surface. Featuring an expansive fleet of boats, the resort offers a variety of daytime excursions, perfect for enjoying Key Largo’s surrounding waters and islands. Groups can ride aboard one of Bungalow’s custom catamarans, for a Swim & Sail excursion, or board one of the custom-built vessels dubbed Tiki Tai and Largo Larry, for an Everglades Eco Tour, or halfday snorkel trip. There’s something for every type of adventurous spirit, and each daytime excursion comes complete with a picnic lunch and alcoholic or nonalcoholic refreshments.

REKINDLE, RECHARGE, & RETREAT TO THE KEYS

Whether it’s a romantic getaway, search for sightseeing, or a familial restoration week take the time to revert to nature at The Bungalows Key Largo. For more information, visit BUNGALOWSKEYLARGO.COM.

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Wendy Jackman

Founder & CEO

T H E R I T Z C A R LT O N ’ S

BY L E IGHANNA M ADDOX

Just 90 minutes from Atlanta lies a lakeside luxury resort so charming it feels like a fairytale. The Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Lake Oconee fuses the rustic charm of a house by the lake with all the modern-day luxuries, crafting a getaway experience unlike anything else this close to the city. Set on 30 acres of shoreline, Lake Oconee offers numerous upscale accommodations, including the private lake house, a variety of suites for any occasion, and serene cottages full of character. 6 8 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

Designer Shane Meder of Georgia’s Black Sheep Interiors had the goal of providing a sleek and tailored experience, all while staying true to the resort’s natural surroundings. This lakeside retreat features six distinct cottages, each one inspired by a native flower. Azalea, Camellia, Gardenia, Jasmine, Magnolia, and Wisteria adorn each respective cottage, bringing nature past your front door and making it part of your stay. Each one of these private two- or three-bedroom cottages is unique in design yet features cohesive elements that make them feel as though they are all part of one home.

The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds Lake Oconee also features a plethora of dining options. From fine dining choices to casual graband-go, the resort offers something for every mood you’re in. For an upscale dining experience that is complemented by unmatched lake views, Amore del Lago is the top pick. It features authentic Italian cuisine prepared by head chef, Andrea Rodella. Chef Rodella is an Italian native who has spent the past decade in various Michelin-starred kitchens and focuses on bringing her experience, as well as the flavors of Italy, to Amore del Lago. If you’re not in the mood for Italian, Lake Oconee also offers premium cut meats in Linger Longer Steakhouse, and a discreet speakeasy bar at Oconee Cove. At each, guests can find signature cocktail options curated by expert mixologists and elegance comparable to the lake itself. If you're in the mood for a more casual bite, Gaby’s by the Lake embraces relaxation with their “No Shirt, No Shoes, Our Pleasure” motto.

Stunning views and delicious food are complemented by the wide range of activities Lake Oconee has to offer. In true vacation destination fashion, guests are encouraged to disconnect from the outside world and embrace family and fun. One of the main attractions is the five championship golf courses, which offer 99 holes to play. Renowned architects designed the courses with nature in mind, using the natural terrain to challenge and inspire players. Not one for golf? The resort offers a wide variety of other activities for summer and winter fun. During the warmer months, the lake hosts kayaking, standup paddleboarding, and other watersports. The property also has a private beach where lounge chairs, cabanas, and umbrellas await. The Beach Hut accommodates guests with towels, sunscreen, and anything else you might need to relax and have fun in the sun. Bicycle rentals, boat tours, and fishing are also popular activities and provide hours of entertainment as well as fresh air, 7 0 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

stunning views, and beautiful water to soak in. To top it all off, there is also the Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds, which features 100 acres of countryside grounds perfect for air rifle, archery, falconry, and their newest addition: an aerial adventure course with ziplining. In the cooler months, ice skating and fireside s'mores are perfect for individual, couple, or family fun. Lake Oconee also offers a variety of familyfriendly venues and activities. Going beyond babysitting services, the Ritz Kids Clubhouse boasts a floor-to-ceiling Amphinomus Aquarium, which is home to many different species of frogs, salamanders, and fish. The BEAM projector system also brings the magic of nature inside, turning the floor into a virtual interactive playground. For outdoor fun, there is a daily rotating calendar of outdoor activities, complete with science experiments, tracking down wildlife, arts and crafts, and lessons on the importance of taking care of nature.

Whether you are vacationing alone, with a partner, or with the family, Lake Oconee is bound to be a crowd pleaser. This beautiful lake resort has unforgettable views, delicious dining, and endless fun; everything you need for a perfect lakeside getaway.

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Sydnee Falkner’ s

NEW ERA The Million Dollar Secret reality star on playing the game and what’s next BY VANESSA PASCALE

PHOTO CREDIT: KATIE LEVINE 7 2 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

When Sydnee Falkner made her reality TV debut in spring of 2025 on Netflix’s Million Dollar Secret, she stole the show with her bombshell beauty and athletic prowess. Million Dollar Secret had everything needed to make it a hit: a diverse, entertaining cast; a beautiful backdrop (hello, gorgeous lakeside chateau in British Columbia); and gripping challenges. I binged all eight episodes of the first season in one sitting. Spoiler alert: Sydnee, who was arguably the strongest player, made it to the final four of the reality TV competition. And while she didn’t return to Arizona with the million dollars, she left with something more valuable: a lifechanging experience and new friends. “I grew so much, I played with intention, and I walked away more confident than I’ve ever felt,” says Sydnee. “I said it best in my exit speech: I’m done playing small and dimming my shine. Being on the show reminded me that I’m multifaceted and allowed to take up space. That’s a message I want more women to feel empowered by.” Since the end of the show, she has remained friends with castmates Kyle, Jaimi, and Chris. “We still have a group chat where we catch up and check in on each other. It’s so nice to have friendships that have continued well beyond the game.” Once the show aired, the opportunities came pouring in for Sydnee. The medical sales rep/ fitness enthusiast would love to continue in the entertainment space and has participated in everything from interviews to magazine cover shoots – three covers in less than a year. “Life has been an amazing whirlwind. I’ve been invited to speak on so many podcasts, walked red carpets, collaborated with brands I love, and spoken at incredible women’s engagements. I will say, being recognized in public is still such a fun and surreal experience.” Sydnee has a list of exciting, new things in the works; expect to see a lot more of her in 2026. “I started taking vocal lessons to prepare for potential scripted work, and I'm always watching for new shows that feel like a good fit. Hosting or having my own podcast would be an absolute dream.”

PHOTO CREDIT: CLAUDIA JOHNSTONE

I caught up with Sydnee while she was in Atlanta filming a podcast, and found her to be as humble and sweet as she is gorgeous. AT L A N TAV U E .CO M 7 3

You were arguably the strongest player on Million Dollar Secret and ended up in the top four. Looking back, would you have done anything differently? “Thank you so much! I had an incredible time on the show and learned a lot. I’m genuinely proud of how I played. Part of me wouldn’t change a thing, and another part wonders what might’ve happened if I’d stayed a little quieter early on or maybe not eliminated Chris. But overall, I trusted my instincts and I’m happy with how everything unfolded.” What appealed to you about doing this show? How did you receive the opportunity? “I loved the concept right away: the challenges, the strategy, playing a part, and of course, the chance to compete for a million dollars. I’ve been in the casting world since 2019, waiting for something that felt aligned. When my casting director called me about this show, we both instantly knew it was ‘the one.’” While filming, what was the most unexpected challenge that viewers would never realize? “Definitely the feeling of having to be ‘on’ at all times. The switch between playing the game and being your real self could be intense. You’d film all day, then go to your room and unpack everything, overanalyze every conversation or action, while reminding yourself that everyone else was also playing their own role. Balancing authenticity with strategy was a unique challenge.” What would fans be surprised to learn about your experience? “People might be surprised to know just how authentic everything was. Nothing was scripted at all. That’s why we had to stay completely silent when cameras weren’t rolling, so every reaction and moment we gave was real.” PHOTO CREDIT: KATIE LEVINE 74 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

PHOTO CREDIT: KATIE LEVINE

What’s a common misconception about you that you’d like to clear up? “People sometimes assume I’m mean or unapproachable because of my serious face. I always joke, ‘It’s just my face.’ In reality, I’m extremely caring and I genuinely look out for people. During the show, we had a group chat while episodes were airing, and I kept checking in with everyone asking if they needed anything or how they were feeling, popping in with a “mental health check.” What’s something you hope the audience takes away from your journey this season? “I hope people see that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover and you never need to shrink yourself to make others comfortable. Stay true to who you are. And remember that the people on these shows are real humans, so kindness really does matter.” What advice do you have for Season 2 contestants? “Be as true to yourself as possible, or be a really good liar and commit to the bit! Halfplaying won’t get you very far.” Any New Year’s resolutions?

PHOTO CREDIT: KATIE LEVINE 7 6 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

“Travel more, enjoy the experiences, and be open to anything that comes my way. I may also get bored and decide to do another bodybuilding show, but we will see!”

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AVA

Cancun BY HAYLEY R. SCHULTZ

Situated just 10 minutes from Cancun International Airport, AVA Cancun makes getting to paradise easy. The short transfer from the airport to the resort sets the tone for a stay that feels effortless from the start.

The resort itself stretches nearly a mile along the Caribbean coastline, unfolding gradually. Paths lead to pools, pools open onto the beach, and at every turn, the ocean remains in view. Divided into North and South Wings, all rooms face the water, creating a seamless, oceanfront promenade that connects restaurants, shops, and amenities. The design is sleek and cosmopolitan with a Miami-inspired vibe. Spacious yet welcoming, AVA balances scale with comfort, providing a modern, family-friendly atmosphere without feeling overwhelming.

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Every room overlooks the Caribbean… no exceptions.

Every room, suite, and villa at AVA reflects the resort’s “Oceanfront Promise.” Floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious private terraces frame uninterrupted views of the white sand and sparkling blue waters of the Mexican Caribbean. Thoughtful in-room amenities ensure comfort and ease, making every stay feel effortless. For those seeking extra space or added luxury, suites and villas offer expanded living areas while maintaining the same attention to detail. Every element is designed to feel seamless, so the focus remains on the stunning ocean views and the ease of simply being on vacation.

Dining at AVA Cancun is all about variety, quality, and convenience. Specialty restaurants offer a range of flavors, from the bold tastes of Bao’s Asian cuisine and the sizzling grills at Black Iron, to the refined dishes at Chez Moi, the French restaurant reserved for adults. Guests can also enjoy Copal’s authentic Mexican flavors; Teppanyaki at Kita and Minami; Mediterranean-inspired dishes at Livo; and classic Italian fare at Veranda. Beyond these venues, the resort provides buffet-style options at Food District and Plaza MX, casual tacos at Copal Tacos, coffee and pastries at Aroma, gelato at Konos, and poolside snacks at Bayside Café. Reservations are recommended for the more popular restaurants, and dietary restrictions are clearly marked on menus. Room service is available throughout the day, with the option to schedule morning delivery for a relaxed start to the day.

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Plan specialty dining in advance! Black Iron and Teppanyaki are in high demand.

Families enjoy expansive kids’ clubs and a separate teen lounge, with activities from arts and crafts to gaming and trampolines. Water takes center stage at AVA Bay, a 2.7acre saltwater lagoon with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and non-motorized water sports. Sunny’s Waterpark is perfect for younger children, and the resort also offers adult-only and family pools with cabanas for a more private experience. Indoor entertainment includes live shows at the Acto Theater, arts and crafts, bingo, pool games, and additional paid options like escape rooms, bowling, and an arcade. For off-property adventures, the concierge team can assist with tours, though the resort itself provides more than enough to fill every day.

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Evenings at AVA Cancun are effortlessly magical. Sunsets paint the sky in pinks and golds, music drifts from the pool, and the ocean stretches endlessly in every direction. Guests can relax by the water, explore the resort’s activities, or enjoy a quiet moment on their private terrace. The resort caters to every pace —families, couples, and adults seeking both energy and tranquility. From water sports and live entertainment to private cabanas and spa treatments, every day can be as active or as restful as you like. AVA Cancun is more than a destination, it’s a space to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the simple luxury of being present in paradise.

Must-try experiences include lagoon paddleboarding, sunrise yoga, themed dinners, and family waterpark fun.

The ideal visit is November through April, when the seas are calm and the temperatures perfect.

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Dr. Alphonso A. Buie

CEO/Designer Place of Peace Interior Designs, LLC

Atlanta, GA

(470) 550-0267

placeofpeaceinteriordesigns@gmail.com www.placeofpeace.co

@place_of_peace_llc

BY ALEENA HERROD

Every December, Miami transforms into a global hub for creativity, attracting artists, collectors, and cultural tastemakers from all over the world. During Art Basel Miami, the city becomes an open canvas where diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and creative fields collide. This year's programming highlighted Miami's dynamic energy, including large-scale installations and sculpture as well as immersive spaces for fashion, music, and design-led experiences. The final outcome was a week filled with innovation, cultural exchange, and art in all its forms, both inside traditional exhibition venues and effortlessly integrated into the city's streets, hotels, and public gathering areas. 8 4 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

During Art Basel Miami, The RitzCarlton, South Beach transformed into an immersive cultural destination where art and nature existed in conversation. Across the property, installations explored humanity’s relationship with the natural world, emphasizing preservation, balance, and environmental awareness.

The Brave New Earth invited viewers to imagine a future shaped by intention and respect for the planet, while When the Earth Breathes offered a meditative digital environment that responded to movement, light, and sound. Extending beyond the hotel, The Ritz-Carlton’s partnership with The ReefLine highlighted

art’s role in marine conservation, using underwater sculpture to support coral restoration along Miami’s coastline. Together, these experiences set a thoughtful and inspiring tone for Art Basel Miami, positioning The RitzCarlton as a place where luxury, art, and environmental responsibility intersect.

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Celebrating a decade of public art in Miami Beach, Faena Art marked the milestone with Library of Us, a monumental installation by British artist Es Devlin that transformed Faena Beach into a space for reflection, reading, and collective experience. The 50-foot rotating library featured 2,500 books that have shaped the artist’s life and philosophy, inviting visitors to gather around a shared reading table as the sculpture slowly revolved. Blurring the boundaries between art, literature, and community, the installation encouraged moments of quiet connection among strangers, reinforcing Devlin’s belief that audiences form temporary societies through shared encounters. Free and open to the public throughout Art Basel week, Library of Us embodied Faena Art’s commitment to accessibility, using art as a bridge between culture, conversation, and everyday life in Miami. 8 6 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

Lincoln Road transformed into an open-air gallery during Miami Art Week, where public art became part of the city’s everyday rhythm. Spanning rooftops, promenades, and pedestrian corridors, the Lincoln Road Art Walk invited viewers to engage with art in motion—unexpected, playful, and deeply reflective of Miami’s global identity. French artist Philippe Katerine’s Mr. Pink Takes Flight brought a sense of joy and whimsy to the skyline, with monumental pink inflatables perched atop rooftops throughout the district. Rooted in his poetic philosophy of “Mignonisme,” the series embraced cuteness as a powerful emotional language, turning daily commutes into moments of delight and color. Grounding the experience was Oscar Esteban Martinez’s La Herencia Viva, a striking sculptural meditation on identity, belonging, and shared humanity. Composed of interlocking facial fragments and mirrored elements, the work invited viewers to see themselves within the piece—an intentional reflection of Lincoln Road’s cultural diversity and the collective experience of coexistence. Adding to the dialogue, Ignacio Gana’s figurative sculptures offered a balance of elegance, sensuality, and subtle humor. Known for his refined approach to form and scale, Gana’s work carried a quiet sophistication that resonated within the urban setting, reinforcing Miami’s role as a global center for contemporary Latin American art. Together, these installations redefined Lincoln Road not just as a destination, but as a living cultural corridor—where art met the public directly, and creativity unfolded in real time across the city.

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Western

North Carolina A R E T U R N T O Q U I E T B E AU T Y BY HAYL EY R. SCHULT Z

Western North Carolina is one of those places that stays with you. Maybe it’s the way the Blue Ridge layers fade into one another like watercolors, or how every small town feels stitched together by creativity, food, and a kind of mountain calm you cannot fake. Whatever it is, the region has a softness that settles in slowly. Almost a year after Hurricane Helene, I found myself looking at these mountains with a different kind of appreciation. The high country does not rush to impress you. Its beauty is confident and grounded, always waiting, no matter what the past year has held. 8 8 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

From Asheville’s artsy pulse to the gentle charm of Banner Elk and the historic streets of Burnsville, rediscovering Western North Carolina felt like reconnecting with an old friend who somehow looks even better than you remember. What surprised me most was not what had changed, but what had not. The warmth of the people, the intentional hospitality, and the views that seem to land deeper when you know what they have weathered. This trip became a reminder of how good it feels to slow down, breathe mountain air, and let a place reintroduce itself.

Ashville Asheville is a city that knows who it is. Creative, welcoming, and always evolving. Checking in at The Radical set the tone immediately. The hotel’s thoughtful design, sweeping mountain views, and bold personality make you feel connected to the city from the moment you arrive. The River Arts District was my first stop. Working studios, small galleries, and colorful buildings make it easy to wander without any plan at all. There is an ease to Asheville’s creativity that seems to encourage curiosity. Dinner at Luminosa was the standout moment. Recently awarded both a Green Michelin Star and a Bib Gourmand, the restaurant strikes a balance between sustainable, thoughtful cooking and dishes that feel warm and deeply satisfying. The menu highlights local ingredients without being showy, and the service carries that effortless polish you only find at places that truly care about the experience. It’s the kind of Appalachian meal that lingers with you. No trip to Asheville feels complete without time at Biltmore. Touring the estate is a step into American history, but what stood out most was the estate's peacefulness and the attention to detail in every corner. It’s a quiet contrast to Asheville’s artsy energy, and somehow the two complement each other perfectly.

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Banner Elk Banner Elk is a tiny mountain town with one stoplight, the kind of place where you slow down without even trying. Banner Elk Glamping makes that easy to do. The geodomes are perfectly sited for long mountain views, and inside the space feels warm and intentional. Plush bedding, a private hot tub, and a fire pit just outside make it feel like a simple, comfortable escape rather than anything close to roughing it. Twenty minutes from town is Grandfather Mountain, a place that feels like the wild heart of this region. Walking across the Mile High Swinging Bridge with the mountains spread out around you is unforgettable. The nature park’s wildlife habitats let you see black bears, river otters, cougars, bald eagles, and elk in settings meant to mirror their native environments. Many visitors still remember Mildred the Bear, one of the mountain’s most famous residents, whose legacy helped shape the wildlife experience you see today. Together, these two experiences make Banner Elk feel like a simple, grounded high-country escape with just the right amount of wonder.

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Burnsville & Hot Springs Burnsville offers a quieter charm, centered around the NuWray Hotel. It is North Carolina’s oldest continuously operating hotel, dating back to 1833. Its restoration preserved the building’s character while elevating the guest experience. Downtown Burnsville is welcoming, with galleries, boutiques, and cafés that invite you to stroll at your own pace. A short drive away, Hot Springs delivers a natural form of luxury. The mineral tubs sit beside the river, surrounded by fresh air and towering trees. Soaking in the warm water while the mountains rise around you is calming in a way words barely capture. It is simple, grounding, and exactly the kind of reset that stays with you.

Rediscovering the Mountains From Asheville’s creative spirit to Banner Elk’s mountain calm to Burnsville’s historic charm, Western North Carolina reminded me that luxury is not always about excess. Sometimes it is space, quiet, intention, and beauty that ask for nothing in return. It is a region shaped by resilience and warmth, and by people who welcome you like a neighbor. This trip was a rediscovery I did not know I needed, and one I will carry with me long after the mountains fade in the rearview.

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BY HAYLEY R. SCHULTZ

For more than fifty years, Nakato Japanese Restaurant has been more than a place to dine, it has been a cultural touchstone. Generations of Atlantans have celebrated milestones here, many encountering Japanese cuisine and tradition for the first time beneath Nakato’s roof. Now, following a thoughtful $2.4 million renovation, the iconic restaurant steps confidently into its next chapter, honoring its past while setting the stage for the future.

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At the helm of this transformation is third-generation owner Sachi Nakato Takahara, whose vision guided the renovation from concept to completion. For Takahara, the project was not about reinvention for its own sake, but about evolution. A way to ensure the restaurant her grandmother founded in the early 1970s remains relevant for decades to come.

“My grandmother did the hardest part,” Takahara reflects. “She started the restaurant. My parents took it to the next level in the early ’90s, building our current location from the ground up in 1991. For me, this renovation was eight years in the making. It was my way of putting my own stamp on the family business while carrying it forward.” That balance defines the newly redesigned Nakato. The space feels brighter and more contemporary, but its soul remains intact. Every decision was guided by intention, from architectural elements to the smallest details of guest experience. One of the most personal changes is also one of the most understated: the new covered exterior entrance. More than an architectural update, it represents Takahara’s deep commitment to omotenashi, the Japanese philosophy of wholehearted hospitality. “For years, it bothered me when guests arrived soaked from the rain, even with valet service,” she explains. “We tried umbrella service, but it just wasn’t practical. I wanted guests to feel cared for from the moment they step out of their car.” The result is a welcoming, protected approach that quietly communicates care before a word is spoken.

Inside, the new bar serves as both a visual centerpiece and a symbolic one. Crafted from locally sourced white oak by a Georgia artisan, the bar top carries a story rooted in community. The tree itself fell during a storm on the craftsman’s family property — the same family that had dined at Nakato for generations. White oak, native to Japan, creates a poetic bridge between place and heritage. Above the bar, Japanese kumiko woodwork imported from Japan features the traditional asanoha pattern. A motif symbolizing strength, protection, and beauty. “It’s the perfect representation of who I am,” Takahara says. “Atlanta-born and raised, with Japanese roots.” Throughout the restaurant, tradition and modernity exist in quiet dialogue. The Hibachi Room has been elevated with state-of-the-art grills and ventilation systems, dramatically improving both performance and comfort. Visually, it now features a striking blue and metallic gold Seigaiha wave pattern (commissioned and printed in Japan) symbolizing good fortune and the eternal movement of the sea. Anchoring the space is a mirrored wall showcasing Hokusai’s iconic Great Wave, grounding the room in timeless Japanese artistry. AT L A N TAV U E .CO M 9 3

Beyond design, Nakato’s next chapter is equally focused on experience. The beverage program has been carefully refined, featuring a curated wine list that pairs seamlessly with everything from delicate sashimi to robust hibachi-grilled meats, alongside Asian-inspired cocktails that feel thoughtful rather than trendy. Seasonal culinary specials will continue to highlight traditional Japanese ingredients sourced from Japan and Georgia, reinforcing the restaurant’s commitment to quality and seasonality. Still, for Takahara, the heart of Nakato has never been about aesthetics alone. “Regardless of renovation, I love being able to serve our guests,” she says. “Providing a true omotenashi hospitality experience is at the core of everything we do. It’s what has carried Nakato through generations, and it’s what will guide us for the next half century.” In an industry often driven by novelty, Nakato’s renovation feels refreshingly grounded, not a departure from its past, but a deepening of it. The space has changed, but the intention remains the same: to welcome guests with care, to honor tradition with integrity, and to create a place where memories are made, generation after generation.

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N E W H YD R OW A R C ROW ER BY AN D REW MCCR ORY Hydrow and its products provide the benefits of outdoor water rowing in your home. Rowing is one of the most overlooked forms of exercise. It works out 86% of your body; it is phenomenal for cardio while efficiently training your core and strength. Hydrow, unlike other rowing machines, is known for the quality of the mechanics. There is minimal drag on the seats to promote a smooth, buttery feel to each stroke. The cutting-edge technology also offers live classes taught by professional instructors for an immersive, engaging experience and workout. They offer thousands of classes designed to accommodate all levels of rowers. Classes can be selected based on workout time lengths, types, and styles; it’s truly an inclusive program. Hydrow specializes in Fluid Strength. The idea that was built around water holding more than resistance. Their method for fitness is shaped by control, and enhances effort through motion and fluidity. “The way we see it, strength is so much more than muscle mass,” says Hydrow CEO, John Stellato. “It’s the foundation for a fuller life. We created Hydrow to remove the barriers to building strength with an experience that anyone can get on – even if you’re new to fitness, or your 9 6 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

schedule is crazy, or some days, you’re just not in the mood. The best strength adapts to real life, and moves with you every step of the way.” Stellato shares that a core value of Hydrow is adaptation. If you have a tight schedule, Hydrow’s products are versatile enough for as little as a ten minute workout. Injury? Hydrow rowers are low-impact machines that can assist recovery. Like water, Hydrow is fluid and compatible with anyone’s lifestyle. On September 16, Hydrow launched its most advanced rowing machine yet, the Hydrow Arc Rower. The Hydrow Arc Rower ($2,295) features upgraded hardware that supports the next generation of AI with patent-pending technology. With the same footprint as the flagship Hydrow Origin Rower (formerly Pro), the Hydrow Arc has advanced processing and hardware capabilities to support constant AI advances, more memory, and improved speakers.

Hydrow Arc also introduces HydroMetrics, a proprietary new strength measurement system that helps members understand overall progress in their strength training journey through intelligent scoring. It consists of three different scores. Power, precision, and endurance. These scores are all combined to measure the HydroMetric Index (HMI) over the past 30 days and the HMI from the most recently completed workout session.

workouts. Not only will the Hydrow Arc teach you what a proper rowing stroke looks like, it teaches how it is supposed to feel like.

The power score records and grades the seven most powerful strokes in every workout and the best seven strokes from the last 30 days. This means even if you take a few easy days, it won’t take away from or hurt your HMI score because it only calculates your best efforts.

HydroMetrics delivers scores related to Precision, Endurance, and Power, and a 30-day HydroMetrics Index that inspires members to compete against themselves, track developments, and improve form over time.

HydroMetrics is designed to showcase your best efforts in order to track progress. The precision score grades one’s technique, while the all-new grading system is designed to train coordination, which optimizes

Endurance is your average split over five minutes, which means the HydroMetric system records your best five minutes from the most recently completed workout and the best five minutes from over the last 30 days.

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Hydrow is all about progress. Getting stronger and healthier, and there is no better way to keep track of that progress than HydroMetrics with the new Hydrow Arc Rower. Hydrow is a long-standing leader in connected rowing, analyzing years of rowing-specific data and metrics generated from rowers. They aren’t only set on providing resources to their loyal customers for improving, the company is leveraging the latest advances in LLMs and real workouts from athletes to train AI to recognize the different form errors and provide insights. Hydrow is defined by progress and adaptation and it reflects in their innovations with the release of the Hydrow Arc Rower. At Hydrow, it is believed that strength is shaped through control and motion, and you can learn how to enhance your Fluid Strength. and adaptation and it reflects in t heir innovations with the release of the Hydrow Arc Rower. At Hydrow, it is believed that strength is shaped through control and motion, and you can learn how to enhance your Fluid Strength. 9 8 AT L A N TAV U E . CO M

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