Headed to Disneyland? I’m jealous! As a Passholder and Magic Key Holder, I’ve been to Disneyland many, many (many) times. Over 300, in fact! Over the years, multiple friends, family members, and coworkers have asked for my tips and tricks to plan the perfect day at the Happiest Place on Earth. And now, I’m sharing my knowledge with you! Which rides should you hit, and in which order? What are the best snacks in the park? How do you find out where to meet Mickey and Minnie? I’m answering all those questions and more. Keep reading for everything you need to know before your next Disneyland trip.

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It’s my LAversary!

10 years ago today, I arrived in Los Angeles. 10. Years. It’s hard to believe that a decade has gone by! It truly feels like the blink of an eye.

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I’m frequently asked why I moved to LA. My kneejerk response is always, “For life.” And that answer actually has such deeper meaning for me. 10 years ago, I was feeling adrift, depressed, lost. I’d tried New York and Pittsburgh but neither felt like home. I yearned for a place where I had friends who became family, where I could create a solid writing career, where I could finally, for the first time in many years, feel HAPPY.

I didn’t choose LA on a whim. When I was 25 years old, I first wrote about moving here in my journal. Well, it took 10 years, but I finally did it. I found that journal entry recently and it’s shocking how much what I wrote held up even now. This is what I wrote back then:

I have really been thinking strongly about an impending move to L.A. The more I consider it, the more I just really want to DO it. I just really think I could be happy there — a lot happier than I’ve been in NYC thus far — and I think I deserve that.

Don’t I deserve to go for the things I think are important and worthwhile? If I don’t try, I’ll always wonder what could have happened and what might have been. And I don’t want to live my life like that.

I believe in taking chances, in going after your dreams, in trying for whatever makes you happy. If you don’t succeed, that’s fine, but shouldn’t you have the chance to try?

That’s why I like that one quote from “Songs for a New World” so much. “Tell me where’s the challenge if you never try? So watch me fly — I’m not afraid!”

Everyone should have the chance to go for their dreams and try to make them happen. And LA is what I’m thinking my next dream will be. So stay tuned!!

I lived in New York for 12 years. I remember fighting to make it to 10, to become a “real New Yorker.” It was HARD. I did it, and it was a badge of honor for me, but it didn’t change the fact that I just wasn’t happy. I don’t feel that way now. 10 years have flown by!

Following are some photos I’ve taken in Los Angeles over the past 10 years. I think, above all, they showcase how happy the city has made me.

I’ve certainly had twists and turns thrown my way in the past decade. But, no matter what’s happened, I remain HAPPY. These past 10 years have been the most fulfilling of my life, in every way possible. I truly love living here and can’t imagine being anywhere else. I am, for the first time in my life, really and truly thriving. And I couldn’t ask for anything more.

I recently discovered a new superpower. Apparently, I have the ability to binge all 10 seasons of Smallville in under two months.

I’ve always said I prefer Marvel to DC. (Sorry to any diehard DC fans, but it’s pretty tough to beat Infinity War and Endgame for me.) But when push comes to shove, my favorite superhero is Superman.

I am from Cleveland, after all — the actual birthplace of Superman, thanks to creators Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. And there’s just something about the Man of Steel. In my eyes, he really is the quintessential superhero.

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This is just a small sampling of the beauty products that have lived rent free in my mind for decades.

Exclamation Cologne Spray

As a writer basically since birth, it tracks for me to like a fragrance named after a punctuation mark. That black and white bottle was EVERYTHING. I loved that it really and truly looked like an exclamation point. I displayed it with pride on my dresser, showing it off to friends whenever they came over.

Also, can we please talk about the magazine ads? This is the very first one I saw and I WAS OBSESSED:

It stopped me in my tracks while reading Seventeen. I just couldn’t believe it.

I honestly don’t even remember what it smelled like, and I don’t know if I ever actually sprayed it, because I didn’t want to waste it. Apparently it had notes of jasmine, apricot, green, peach, bergamot, orris root, heliotrope, lily of the valley, rose, sandalwood, amber, cinnamon, musk, vanilla, and cedar. To be fair, you could have told me it had any notes in the universe and I would have said, “Okay, and how much is it?” and forked over my money ASAP.

Hard Candy Nail Polish

When I was in high school, I spent at least one day each weekend at the mall with my friends. One of my stops was always the beauty counters at Nordstrom, and the main event? Checking out Hard Candy nail polish. The bottle shape! The colors! The NAMES of the colors! (Pavement, Trailer Trash, Taxi Cab and Vinyl were just some of the names that I loved.) And, most of all, the plastic rings that came wrapped around every bottle! I simply needed to have this nail polish in my collection.

At the time, the nail polish was incredibly expensive for me. Each bottle was $12, which took a few $5 an hour babysitting jobs to justify. Finally, I decided it was time to buy a bottle. Then the REALLY agonizing bottle staring started, since I had to decide which bottle would come home with me! On that fateful Saturday, I must have spent at least 20 minutes looking at every single polish (I'm sure the salesgirl was thrilled with me). I needed a color that had the perfect name, the perfect hue and the perfect ring to match. I finally decided on Sky, which was the perfect shade of pale pastel blue. What can I say? Even back then, I was into crazy nail polish colors.

Hard Candy also initially made an impression on me through the pages of Seventeen, mainly due to images like this:

I will never, EVER forget the girl with the Hard Candy tablet on her tongue.

Salon Selectives Shampoo and Conditioner

Ohhhh, Salon Selectives. How did I love thee?! In my mind, those pink bottles contained a little bit of magic. Every time I picked up a bottle and squeezed out shampoo or conditioner, I had the feeling that I was taking control of my hair and making it do exactly what I wanted. I really can pinpoint my now seemingly inexhaustible search for the perfect shampoo and conditioner to my first jaunt with Salon Selectives. Day after day, these shampoos and conditioners just made my hair look and feel absolutely amazing. I loved that there were so many options formulated for different hair types and textures.

My favorite was always Salon Selectives Type B Body Building — which in this day and age sounds terrifying, since I would have double the amount of volume in my already big hair — but, in the 80's, bigger was always better! (And, yes, that is an actual bottle of my conditioner that I kept and found in my mom’s house about 8 years ago. Don't worry, there isn't still product inside!)

The Body Shop Glycerin Soap

You know the movie Mallrats? Well, I was one. As I already told you, I used to spend EVERY. SINGLE. WEEKEND. at the best mall in Cleveland, the one and only Beachwood Place. I wandered through the stores with my friends, pretty much obsessed with everything I saw or tried on … and, during one of these trips, my long-standing love of The Body Shop Glycerin Soap was born.

I think I originally gravitated toward these vegetable-based soaps because of the price. I could stock up on every single one and not empty my wallet. But, after awhile, I kept coming back because they smelled fantastic and left my skin feeling amazingly soft and smooth. My favorite has always been (and will always be) Strawberry, the scent of which effortlessly brings a strawberry patch to life. While I’ve since moved on to using body washes instead of soap bars, these glycerin bars will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Gap Heaven

It was 1994, I was in 8th grade, and Gap Heaven came onto the scene. This was the era of Heaven, Grass and Dream … AKA Gap's best moment ever. There was a scent for everyone, but if you liked Heaven? You were, well, heavenly. I bought this fragrance in bulk — I came home with another bottle basically every weekend. I think at one point I had 5 or 6 on my dresser alone. And, no, I didn't think this was excessive.

Heaven smelled fresh and clean, a bit like dryer sheets but more sophisticated. The other Gap scents were a bit too earthy for me (I've never been a fan of patchouli), but Heaven just made me smile every time I inhaled. Heaven combined notes of musk and jasmine and was perfect whether I was spending the day at school or the evening on a coffee date with my besties at Caribou Coffee. (Side note: RIP Caribou.)

I was devastated when Gap discontinued Heaven. It really did signify the end of an era for me. In all actuality, I’ve never really found another fragrance I loved more.

What are some of your core beauty product favorites and memories? Let me know in the comments!

That’s not to say I haven’t made mistakes — of course I have. But chalk it up to years of therapy, or just being self-aware enough to know that those mistakes helped to shape what my life has become. After all, in my very favorite SATC episode, I ❤️ NY, Carrie ends by saying:

“Maybe our mistakes are what make our fate. Without them, what would shape our lives? Perhaps, if we never veered off course, we wouldn’t fall in love, or have babies, or be who we are. After all, seasons change. So do cities. People come into your life and people go. But it’s comforting to know the ones you love are always in your heart, and if you’re very lucky — a plane ride away.”

But I digress. Those actual regrets I have? The shoes I saw, lusted after, tried on, and then put back on the shelf. The ones I let sit there, instead of making their way into my shoedrobe. Those shoes have haunted me for years, some for literal decades.

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Some of those shoes were only $50. Others were $2,000. In each case, I decided they weren’t a necessity. I walked away. And then…

I. Never. Stopped. Thinking. About. Them.

Oh, what could have been. And so, I present to you my only regrets in life.

Christian Louboutin Peep-Toe Pumps with Feather Heels

It was April 2, 2010. And I know this because I took a photo of these shoes and posted it on Facebook in real time. I was in Las Vegas to see Dita von Teese perform a burlesque show (OMG was that incredible), and I happened to stop into the Louboutin store inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. My eyes happened upon these Loubis … my heart started fluttering … and I tried.them.on.

I don’t want to get super dramatic here — but at that point, I’m pretty sure my heart stopped for a moment. I was IN LOVE. I had fallen head over heels (literally) for these shoes. And then I looked at the price tag. And they were $2,000. And I thought, “Well, I love these, but if I buy them, I can’t pay my rent for two months.” So I sadly took them off and put them back in the box. Have I thought about them basically every day since? Yes.

Ralph Lauren Suede Over-the-Knee Boots from Fall 2006

Oh my LORD. I wanted these Ralph Lauren over-the-knee boots SO MUCH. I was a copywriter for Ralph Lauren at the time, and the second they came across my desk to write a product description for RalphLauren.com, I became immediately obsessed. I loved the olive greenish brown suede, I loved the stacked heels, I loved the silhouette. I can’t lie, I actually put them on and pranced around the office for a few minutes (it pays to be sample size in shoes). And then, I placed them gingerly back in their box, because they were $650. And to 26-year-old me, making a paltry $40,000 a year, I just couldn’t do it.

One day, maybe five months later, my friend Paul (a fellow RL copywriter) asked if I’d want to accompany him down to the store in the Village to look at a coat he wanted. At the time, employees got special discounts at the brand’s stores only a few times a year, and this was one of those times. We got on the subway, rode down to a store location I don’t think even exists anymore, and walked in. Paul went straight to the coat. I went straight to THE BOOTS. I tried them on. I SQUEALED IN GLEE.

At that point, with my discount, they would have been $300. THREE HUNDRED DOLLARS. I really should have done it. And I didn’t. I said, “No, I can’t afford them.” Maybe I couldn’t. Maybe that was better for my wallet in the long run. But, wow, do I really wish I had bought them.

Saint Laurent Tribute Platform Sandals

I’m actually not even sure what year I first laid eyes upon these gorgeous sandals, but I do know it was still YSL back then instead of Saint Laurent. I also still lived in New York and was at the Woodbury Common Outlets with Paul (obviously, we went shopping together a lot), so it was sometime before 2012. In any case, there was definitely some heart stuttering when my eyes alighted upon them. The interlocking straps, the sky-high heels, the gold buckles … Come on, those were things of pure beauty.

The outlet price was $250. I’m honestly extremely angry with myself for not buying them that day. Because today, the same shoes are $1,100 on Saint Laurent’s website. Have I tried to find deals on them throughout the years? Yes. Have I failed every single time? Also yes. Note to self: Sometimes, JUST BUY THE SHOES.

Miu Miu Black Booties with Curved Heels from Spring 2012

There are many shoes that have figured prominently in my dreams throughout the past couple decades. These Miu Mius are absolutely up there. In all actuality, I loved ALL of the shoes from this specific collection, because they had curved heels that I just found so incredibly chic. I especially loved a pair of dark green velvet heels that I have never been able to find a photo of, but these black booties are a close second.

I was at a Miu Miu sample sale in NYC when I stumbled upon these. They were only FIFTY DOLLARS. And I let them go. At the time, I thought, “They’re affordable, but do I NEED them?” Yes, Jamie. Yes, you needed them. Because, wow, you’ve thought about them at least once a week ever since. Oops.

The Miu Miu Gold Sequined Kitten Heel Slingbacks I’m Pretty Sure Were a Fever Dream

Three years ago, my mom and I were at Nordstrom Rack in Boston — arguably the best place I’ve ever seen designer shoe discounts. I came across a pair of Miu Miu gold sequined slingbacks with kitten heels and bows on the toes. I stared. I stared some more. I tried them on. I gasped aloud. I immediately took them off, placed them gingerly back in the box, and ran to show my mom, at which point the following exchange took place:

Mom: How much are they?
Me: $350.
Mom: That’s not so bad.
Me: I know, but … I don’t NEED them.
Mom: Maybe you should buy them anyway.
Me: [BIG SIGH] No, I think I should save the money.

And then, a bit dejectedly, I placed them back on the shelf. But I thought, “If I REALLY want them, I’m sure I’ll find them online.”

Famous last words. I. Never. Found. Them. Again. I’m fairly certain these were a fever dream that only my mom and I were a part of. I’ve searched high and low for these shoes. I’ve googled every single type of SEO term I can think of trying to find them. I’ve scoured every Miu Miu fashion show going back to 2002, including every detail shot, on Vogue.com. (I’ve done it before, but I did it again today, just in case they eluded me the first time around.) They do not exist. So now, I’m left feeling like this:

I’m going to keep looking. But I fear they may have been lost to the sands of time.

Miu Miu Gold Glitter Curve-Heel Pumps from Fall 2011

I think it’s becoming evident that I have a thing for Miu Miu shoes. And, actually, I did buy these glittery gold pumps. But it took me over a decade to do it. I LUSTED after these Miu Mius when they first came on the scene. This whole collection was DIVINE, filled with glittery heels and booties that reminded me of Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers. I went to Bergdorf Goodman and tried them on at least 10 times. I loved the gold glitter, I loved the curved heels, I loved the rounded toes. I kept thinking about them. But I think they were at least $550, which at the time seemed like an absolutely insane amount of money to spend on a pair of shoes, and I let them go.

And then, as I’m wont to do, I never STOPPED thinking about them. They were circling around in my brain for over 10 years. I kept searching for them on Poshmark and Ebay, hoping I’d come across a pair someone had worn and not beaten up too badly. AND I FOUND THEM. The soles were a bit worn in and scuffed, but otherwise, they were perfect. But they were still, even a decade later, too expensive. So I kept them in my Poshmark loves and looked at them at least once a week.

I finally bit the bullet about a year and a half ago. I got them for $105. I rejoiced. And then I put them on. And, well … they were actually pretty uncomfortable. I couldn’t walk in them, honestly. And, as much as it pained me to do it, especially after wanting them for so many years, I sold them for $95.

Sometimes, it’s okay to let the dream go.

Up first: A new shampoo line worth “checking in” for, a sweet-smelling candle that’s almost too adorable to burn, and a skincare product so good I’ve been buying it in droves.

SHAMPOOHOTEL Paris Shine Shampoo

As someone with hair that is never shiny without a fair amount of wrangling, I’m always on the lookout for products that promise said shine. Bonus points if the packaging is gorgeous and they smell delicious. Well, check, check, and check for this shampoo from the new line, SHAMPOOHOTEL! I was invited to a meet and greet with the VP of Marketing at Tower Bar a couple months back to check out the line and was immediately impressed by the targeted product offerings for different hair types and textures. Every single one of the products in the line is inspired by a city where the people’s hair is very iconic. Paris is shine, Miami is hydration, Rio is volume, and Marrakesh is strengthening. I was immediately drawn to Paris for its mix of ingredients like smoothing grapeseed oil and citrusy grapefruit. Plus, it’s pink!

Every shampoo and conditioner is available at Ulta, as well as coordinating body washes. And they’re all under $20!

$15 at ulta.com

Paddywax Bistro Baguette Candle

This candle has a baguette on the front. I repeat. This. Candle. Has. A. Baguette. On. The. Front. Have you ever seen something so adorable?! I’m a sucker for candles as pretty and fun to look at as they are to burn, and this one definitely fits the bill. It would be enough for the rosemary and thyme scent to waft throughout my apartment. But no, Paddywax had to go and house it in a ceramic jar that has a miniature baguette engraved on the front. It has a 56-hour burn time and the vessel can be reused once the candle burns down. I’m already envisioning sticking my makeup brushes inside it.

$30 at urbanoutfitters.com

Skinfix Exo + Ectoin Intensive Repair Baume

Oh. Em. Gee. If I could only recommend one skincare product for the rest of my life, it might just be this one. I’ve been using this balm every day since March, and my skin has changed before my eyes. I’m not ashamed to say I’m 45 years old and still haven’t gotten Botox — and, while I’ve been blessed with fairly wrinkle-free skin, I do still have some lines across my forehead and the dreaded 11’s are making an appearance. Or should I say, they were … because ever since this product came into my life, THEY HAVE VIRTUALLY DISAPPEARED.

I use one pump every single morning, in between my The Ordinary hyaluronic acid serum and my Sunday Riley Good Genes serum, and wow. Just wow. Thanks to a mix of a 4% Growth Factor Peptide Solution (to improve wrinkles and elasticity) and 1% Phyto Exosomes (to visibly renew skin), the wrinkles are G-O-N-E. I’ve been telling every single person in my life about this serum-like balm for months, and have convinced both of my best friends to incorporate it into their daily routines. We’re all obsessed.

$69 at skinfix.com

For much of my childhood and throughout college, my hair was … interesting. Really, that’s the best word I can come up with for it. Left to its own devices, my hair is curly, wavy, and straight all at the same time. It’s A LOT.

To try and tame the masses, I woke up every day at 6am, washed my hair, and blow-dried it. Every. Single. Day. It was, to put it lightly, A PROCESS. Especially because I had no idea what a flat iron was. So, at best, my hair was straight, but not shiny or sleek. And it was big. And fluffy. And hanging around my head kind of like a mushroom cloud. Especially when I decided to get a bob, so there wasn’t enough hair to weigh itself down. Yeah, that happened.

But, fast forward to 2008. I had finally, finally, discovered the flat iron. And I found one I truly loved, from T3 (the exact one doesn’t exist anymore, but wow, have I loved that brand’s hairdryers and flat irons for decades at this point).

I had also just gotten a new job, as the Copywriter for Bergdorf Goodman. I was beyond thrilled. I couldn’t believe I was sitting in those hallowed halls. Granted, the job wasn’t super creative, and I had basically the worst boss of all time, but hey, it was BERGDORF’S. I was willing to let a lot of things slide.

So I was up early, getting my hair ready for the day. I pulled out my trusty T3. I’ll admit I was a little distracted during the flat ironing process, not really looking at my reflection as I straightened each strand. I opened the clamp. I closed the clamp. And … it came down directly over my left hand. At 410 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut to me basically looking like this:

It hurt. A lot. And immediately created a second-degree burn. And my first thought was…

I can’t be late for work.

Seriously? I had just burned my hand. And I was most concerned about walking into BG a minute later than 9am. I quickly finished flat ironing, ran my hand under cold water for a minute, and walked out the door to the subway. And, yes, I got to work on time.

In that moment, I wish I’d known my future self. Because she would have taken one look at me (and my burned hand), and said…

“JAMIE, CALL IN SICK AND GO TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM.”

Unfortunately, 28-year-old me just didn’t realize she could do that. She thought she’d get fired for having a medical emergency that prevented her from getting to her cubicle on time.

Honestly, if I’d been fired for that, it would have been okay. I would have figured out my next move. And my hand probably would have been better off, too.

For the record, I actually just looked at my left hand, and the scar is so faded it wouldn’t even be noticeable to anyone but me anymore. Thank goodness for small favors, right?

I've turned into a complete fangirl ... of Fan Girl Cafe, that is! When my friend Jen asked me to accompany her there a few months ago, I had no idea it would quickly become my favorite coffee shop in Los Angeles. But it stole its way into my heart, and now I can't imagine a better spot. Here are the 8 reasons you should grab a cup of coffee at Fan Girl, stat.

1. It's queer, woman, and Latina owned.

Even if this coffee shop weren't awesome, I'd still love it just because of who owns it. It's really just a bonus that it's as fantastic as it is! The two married owners are women, Latina, and queer, and it's a safe space for ALL.

Fan Girl Cafe is queer, woman, and Latina owned.

2. It's themed after women in music.

If you love music, this is the place for you. There are framed photos of artists everywhere you look, and music-themed decor around every corner. Even the bathrooms have music themes — one may even play a Gwen Stefani song, but I can't say for sure. (Well, I can, but I don't want to spoil your good time.)

Even the bathrooms at Fan Girl Cafe are music-themed.

One of the music-themed bathrooms at Fan Girl Cafe.

Drawings of female musicians like Madonna and Taylor Swift greet you as you walk in the door.

3. The space is FUN.

I absolutely love this little shop. It's pink, black, and white, with lots of little tables scattered around the room. They sell tons of adorable merchandise, too, like stickers and postcards. I especially love the neon sign in the front corner with a bright pink couch underneath. I've spent many a morning sitting there sipping my coffee!

A vibrant pink couch and a bedecked Christmas tree sit in the front window.

You can buy tons of fun merch, like pop culture-themed stickers and greeting cards.

4. The drinks are delicious.

Now what you're really here for ... the drinks! I've made it a habit to try as many drinks as possible on their menu, and I have never been disappointed. Among my favorites are:

Silk Shiffon Iced Tea: A mix of blue chamomile tea and lavender lemonade. This. Drink. Is. Delicious. It's the first one I ever tried, so it has a special place in my heart. It's totally refreshing and delicious!

Cosmic Love Iced Tea: Blue chamomile tea and strawberry dragonfruit lemonade

So Long, London-Fog Tea Latte: Earl Grey infused with herbal rose petals, honey, and vanilla. You can get it hot or iced. I chose iced and topped it with non-dairy cold foam. In other words ... YUM.

Lavender Haze Specialty Latte: A sweet and delicious mix of lavender and agave.

On the left: The Lavender Haze Specialty Latte. On the right: The Silk Shiffon Iced Tea.

The So Long, London-Fog Tea Latte from Fan Girl Cafe in West Hollywood.

5. It's the perfect spot for meetings or hangouts with friends.

I've honestly lost track of how many times I've said to fellow writers or to friends, "Have you been to Fan Girl yet?" I've taken tons of meetings here, and done weekend coffee meetups, too. I love the vibe, and I love that there are always tables available (although it does get pretty busy after about 10am).

The space at Fan Girl Cafe is fun, inviting, and perfect for meetings or hangouts with friends.

6. It's a great place to bring your laptop, too.

Can you work at Fan Girl? You sure can! They have free WiFi, so you can bring your laptop and type away.

Fan Girl Cafe has free WiFi, so bring your laptop and get some work done while you sip on a latte or iced tea concoction.

7. It's conveniently located in West Hollywood.

Fan Girl Cafe is really the only coffee shop in its section of WeHo right now, especially since Go Get Em Tiger just closed. They have free parking with a parking lot, too!

8. You can get free drinks.

Yes, you read that right. Fan Girl Cafe has a punch card, so the more you go, the closer you get to a free drink! You get a free beverage after 10 visits.

Fan Girl Cafe is located at 8157 Santa Monica Boulevard. They're open Tuesday-Friday from 8:390am-4pm, and Saturday-Sunday from 9am-3pm. They're closed on Mondays.

Looking for an experience in Las Vegas that's un-brrr-lievable? Then you definitely have to check out the V-Ice-P Experience at Minus5 Ice Bar! Those who know my history with slipping on ice and breaking my ankle may be surprised to know I actually LOVED being in a bar made of the stuff. But surprise ... it's SO. MUCH. FUN! I've gone to the Minus5 locations at both Mandalay Bay and Linq — read on for all the icy cold details!

About the V-Ice-P Experience

While there are multiple ticket options available, I think the V-Ice-P experience gives you the most bang for your buck. It costs $79, and includes the following:

• Entry to the Minus5 Ice Bar

• A pair of gloves to wear while you're inside (and you can keep them afterward!)

• A faux fur coat to wear — you get your choice of black or white. I chose black both times, and legitimately felt so chic.

• Two ice cocktails

• A souvenir gift — When I went, I got to choose from four different hats!

• A digital photo inside the experience

See? The V-Ice-P experience comes with so much. I really felt like I got my money's worth with this one, since I got to wear a fun fur coat and hat, and had two different drinks included in the price. Since cocktails can run around $20 apiece, that definitely worked in my favor. 

With one of my cocktails. It comes in a glass made of ice. Yes, it's cold.

Your cocktails come in a glass made of ice. You reuse your glass for each cocktail.

The Other Experiences

If you don't feel like going for the V-Ice-P, there are still multiple other experiences at Minus5 Ice Bar that you can try, including the following:

Ultimate Polar Passport ($109)

Includes initial entry, three drinks, a fur coat and hat, re-entry at all three locations, Dreambox360, a High Roller ticket, and 20% off at Daiquiri Bar

Fire & Ice Experience ($95)

Includes Minus5 Ice Bar, 1923 Prohibition Bar Speakeasy, and Daiquiri Bar

Coolest Experience ($49)

Includes entry, gloves, two cocktails, and a parka

Cool Experience ($24)

Includes entry, gloves, and a parka

You can choose from multiple experiences. The V-Ice-P comes with a fur coat, while the Cool and Coolest experiences include a parka.

The Photo Opportunities

Let's be serious — the most important part of this experience is the fun photos! I'm no stranger to Instagram popups — I've visited installations made of bubbles, illusions, and candy, just to name a few. Of course I'd want to take pics in a bar made of ice!

There are so many different spots to take photos within each of the ice bars. Need a pic with King Kong? Check! Feel like being an icy-cool DJ? Double check! Want to feel like king or queen for a day? Triple check! Seriously, I had a blast running around the room and snapping photos in my fur coat.

I also love that the V-Ice-P comes with commemorative photos. On both visits, we had so much fun snapping these! Depending on who's working that day, they might even give you extra photos when you leave (I had that happen on both visits!). 

One of the digital photos included in the V-Ice-P experience. We were even treated to a surprise visit from a penguin!

The Minus5 Ice Bar includes many different seating locations and spots to take photos.

One of the photo spots in Minus5 Ice Bar.

A digital photo included with the V-Ice-P experience. My mom and I really hammed it up for the camera!

The V-Ice-P experience includes a mini photo shoot with your choice of photos at the end.

You can be a DJ at a booth made of ice.

When to Go

I suggest going to Minus5 Ice Bar early in the day. Hey, it's Vegas — drinking can start whenever you feel like it! Both times that I went, I chose to go around 11:30am, which meant I had the place basically to myself. The ice bar can definitely get crowded, especially on weekends, so if you want your pick of places to sit and photos without people in them, going early is definitely better. 

You probably won’t want to stay more than an hour, since, let’s face it, it does get pretty cold in there. It's an ice bar, after all! 

Minus 5 Ice Bar is ice cold in the absolute best way. If you’re in Vegas, it’s definitely worth a slip! To book your experience, visit minus5experience.com.

My best friend Andrew and I watch Titanic every Valentine's Day. It's been a tradition for years, and in recent times includes his fiancé, Nicholas. We can quote every line, we know the ins and outs of the history, we discuss how the artifacts are represented. It doesn't feel right to say I'm obsessed with the Titanic, but it's difficult to know how else to describe a fascination that's gone back decades at this point (especially since I saw the movie in the theater five times when it came out in 1997). 

It seems obvious, then, that I simply had to visit Titanic Belfast when I was in Ireland. This museum still had me learning new stories and seeing artifacts I didn't even know existed. The sinking is one of the most heartbreaking tragedies in history, and I thought the way the museum handled it was absolutely perfect. Keep reading to discover the 15 reasons you should visit Titanic Belfast.

1. They have one of the last remaining deck chairs from the ship.

This is one of only six remaining deck chairs from the ship. It was found floating in the water by the Mackay-Bennett, which was the first of four ships chartered by the White Star Line to search for bodies after the sinking.

One of the last remaining deck chairs from Titanic exists here.

2. Only 12 lifejackets still exist, including this one.

There were over 3,500 lifebelts (AKA life vests or lifejackets) on the Titanic — and only 12 are left. This Fosbery lifejacket was recovered from the wreck site by the Mackay-Bennett.

One of only 12 lifejackets still in existence.

3. You're given White Star Line tickets to enter the museum.

If you want to live out your fantasies of feeling like Jack winning his ticket to Titanic, your entry ticket will help with that. Each ticket is printed to look like one you would hand to an attendant as you board.

Enter the museum with your own White Star Line ticket.

4. Speaking of tickets ... the museum actually has one of the genuine tickets used for the launch.

This wasn't actually a ticket used to board the ship. On the day of the initial launch, people could purchase tickets to see the ship leave from the harbor in Belfast on May 31, 1911. Yes, this was almost a full year before the ship's trip from Southampton.

A ticket used at the viewing of the ship's launch from Belfast.

5. If you were wondering how First Class passengers dined, you can see a menu from the last lunch on board the ship.

This menu belonged to passenger Ruth Dodge, and was for the First Class luncheon on April 14, 1912. Passengers could choose from a variety of foods, including chicken a la Maryland, grilled mutton chops, potted shrimps, soused herrings, and roast beef. The recovered menu even has a handwritten note from a ship steward who knew the family, which reads, "With compliments & best wishes from Frederic Dent Ray, 56 Palmer Park, Reading, Berks."

A First Class lunch menu from the ship's last day.

6. The missing binocular box key was recovered and is on display.

This fact is actually briefly mentioned in Titanic, but I never caught it until after visiting Titanic Belfast — and I didn't know about it until then. This binocular box key belonged to Second Officer David Blair, who was reassigned just before the ship's maiden voyage. Because of his hasty departure, he kept the key in his pocket instead of leaving it on the ship, which meant there was no access to binoculars on the night of the sinking. The lookout, Fred Fleet, told the official inquiry that if he had binoculars, he would have seen the iceberg sooner.

The ship's missing binocular key.

7. You can take photos on the First Class promenade deck.

As you walk through the museum, you'll come to the First Class promenade. At this juncture, there's a video showing what the view would have been like from the deck. It's also one of the areas where you can take a photo. I will admit that while most of the museum feels extremely somber, this is a part that attempts — however much in vain it may be — to slightly lighten the mental and emotional load.

A recreation of the First Class promenade deck.

The view from the First Class promenade deck.

8. Read some of the devastating last messages and distress calls sent from the ship.

One of the saddest things I came across in the museum was the distress calls sent as the Titanic was sinking. There are screens after screens of these messages sent to surrounding ships, crying out for help as the ship went down.

All stations urgent distress call.

Distress call mentioning putting women in life boats and sinking quickly.

A distress call finishing with "CQ" ... silence. At 2:10am.

9. Learn more about Thomas Andrews, the managing director in charge of design for Titanic.

As a lifelong fan of Victor Garber, I've always had a special affinity for his portrayal of Thomas Andrews in Titanic. You can learn more about the actual Andrews and how he designed the ship.

Thomas Andrews was the managing director in charge of design for Titanic.

10. See the actual violin played by Wallace Hartley as the ship went down.

This is one of the artifacts that truly shocked me. The violin, which belonged to Wallace Hartley, was a gift from his fiancée, Maria Robinson. The string quartet played on the deck as the ship sank, later inspiring the phrase, "And the band played on." While Hartley did not survive, his violin was later found floating atop the water within its case.

Wallace Hartley's violin was found within its case.

11. Discover an original First Class accommodation plan, which was issued to Ida and Isidor Straus.

If you've watched Titanic, you may remember the old couple holding each other in bed as the ship finally sinks. The two people were Ida and Isidor Straus, who owned Macy's department store in New York City. They were issued a First Class accommodation plan to help them navigate the ship. Their story is truly incredible — instead of trying to fight for survival, Ida insisted that their personal maid, Ellen Bird, would go in their place. She had this plan in her possession when she was saved.

The first class accommodation plan given to Ida and Isidor Straus, and rescued by their personal maid, Ellen Bird.

12. See a pocket watch that stopped the moment it went into the ocean.

Malcolm Joakim Johnson was wearing this pocket watch the night he died. The hands of the corroded Omega are frozen in time at 1:37a.m., which is the moment Johnson went into the ocean.

A pocket watch that stopped the moment its owner went into the ocean.

13. Stand over the sunken ship as it floats by.

One of the most haunting areas of the museum is a glass-bottomed floor where you can watch the wreckage of the Titanic float past. The entire video takes a couple of minutes.

Stand atop the ocean depths and watch as the Titanic floats by.

Another shot of the Titanic down below.

14. The museum building actually looks like the Titanic.

Yes, the building you enter looks like the ship itself. It's just one more way that the Titanic Belfast immerses you in the experience from the moment you arrive.

Titanic Belfast is built to look like the actual ship.

15. Finish your visit at the bow of the ship.

Yes, you can take a photo at a recreation of the bow of the ship and feel just like Leo and Kate. It was actually difficult to want to smile here, after witnessing everything I had. But it adds one last moment of lightness to an otherwise tragic tale.

  
The museum has a recreation of the ship's bow.

Drinking beer and enjoying spa treatments simultaneously? You must have stepped into Oakwell Beer Spa. During my recent trip to Denver, I was lucky enough to experience this one-of-a-kind spa, and I'm here to give you all the deliciously hoppy details.

My friend Bri and I were very excited to see what Oakwell Beer Spa was all about. As soon as we stepped through the doors, we were whisked away into a beer lover's paradise. 

The main room of Oakwell Beer Spa.

Taking a photo in this tub is a must.

The self-serve taproom at the back wall includes specialized beers and ciders from a local brewery.

The front of the spa is open and airy, with multiple comfortable couches and chairs spread throughout the space. At the back of the room you'll find the "taproom" — there are a variety of interactive taps that work by holding up an innovative wristband. You can choose from beer, wine, or cider. We decided not to indulge in the beer offerings since it was fairly early in the day, but I did enjoy the fact that the spa partners with a local brewery each month. 

Our favorite area of the entry room was, of course, the ball-filled tub. Did we take tons of photos here? The answer would be a resounding YES. We had a blast doing a photo shoot in the tub before our services! Shoutout to the employees of the spa for helping take our pictures and making us laugh so much. 

Taking photos in this tub is an absolute must.

We had a blast taking photos here.

Here's where the magic really begins, though. We booked two different experiences and a few extras:

•  A Beer Therapy Ritual

• 15-minute Zero Gravity Massage Experiences

• Charcuterie board and mimosas

A Beer Therapy Ritual, you ask? Yes! Each ritual includes a private spa suite with a massive therapeutic jacuzzi tub, an infrared sauna, and personal rain shower. The suite was beautiful — dim lighting, hanging greenery, and, of course, the massive tub. It also includes two plush robes, which we slipped into post-soak.

For the ritual itself, you choose from multiple sachets infused with a mix of herbs, malted barley, and aromatic hops that are dropped into the tub while you're inside it. You're not actually soaking in beer, but still getting all the benefits. The cedar hydrotherapy tub has bubbling jets and steaming water that stays that way for about 70 minutes of your 90-minute experience.

Inside our personalized spa suite.

Our bubbling jacuzzi tub.

We were each given cozy robes to change into during our time in the spa suite.

Each spa suite includes a personalized sauna.

The rain shower inside our spa suite was delightful, and came complete with beer-infused shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.

We began with a short session in our sauna. I'll admit that we only stayed in there for about five minutes, because we were already becoming too warm and sweaty! We quickly transferred into our beer tub and enjoyed a full hour of soaking while simultaneously snacking on our charcuterie board and drinking mimosas. I loved how warm the water stayed, how soft my skin felt, and how delightfully calming the hydrotherapy experience was.

Once our tub started draining, we still had 20 more minutes left in the room. We each had time to shower and get dressed before heading to our zero gravity massages.

And, wow, the massages. This was a different type of massage than I've ever experienced, and I loved every second of it. We were led into a dark room with a row of massage chairs, and each settled into one. Once we sat down and covered ourselves with cozy blankets, we were raised up and back into the air, with star-like lights twinkling above us. The massage chair featured a full-body air compression function and L-track rollers that worked through every single knot and strain in my body. I was only in the chair for 15 minutes and fell asleep! I chose pretty deep pressure, and I loved how much it kneaded my calves, hips, shoulders, and neck. I definitely could have sat in that chair for at least an hour.

In all my years going to spas, I have never experienced one quite like this. If you love beer and relaxation, this is absolutely worth a visit. The Beer Therapy Ritual is $199, and the 15-Minute Zero Gravity Massage is $20 (you can also get a 30-minute version for $30). There are multiple packages you can enjoy as well. For more information and to book an appointment, visit oakwell.com.

Get ready to glow! During my last trip to Boston, I experienced a treatment at Glowbar on Newbury Street. What an absolute delight!

The interior of Glowbar, heading back to the treatment rooms.

I felt like I was immediately whisked away to a delightful oasis the moment I stepped through the door. Even though this location is on busy Newbury Street, it's so calm and refreshing inside — I immediately forgot about all the hustle and bustle steps away!

Upon arrival, you check in on an iPad at reception.

The space is large, airy, and bright. Love the pops of orange.

After I checked in on the convenient iPads at reception, I was led to the Wash Bar. I think this is an interesting way to begin the appointment — you're responsible for cleansing your skin before meeting with your facialist. I haven't usually needed to do that, but actually enjoyed making sure my skin was good and clean before the treatment.

You begin by cleansing your skin at the Wash Bar.

Enjoying a little photo moment at the Wash Bar.

The Wash Bar at Glowbar.

The Wash Bar at Glowbar.

 
Once my skin was good and cleansed, I waited for my esthetician in a little nook off the front area. She came to retrieve me and lead me to my treatment room. From there, the magic really began!

Each treatment at Glowbar is 30 minutes. That sounds short — but wow, do those 30 minutes pack a major punch for your skin! My esthetician put together a customized facial just for my skin type and concerns.

Since it was wintertime, my skin was SUPER dry and flaky. My treatment focused on hydration with a light chemical peel to slough off dead skin and a super hydrating mask. My esthetician also performed light extractions to remove buildup around my nose and chin.

After only 30 minutes, my skin was GLOWING. Not surprising, since this is Glowbar, after all! I seriously couldn't believe how much better my skin looked in such a short amount of time. And of course I had to snap a photo with their signature mirror to show off the radiance. Not to mention I was smiling from ear to ear for DAYS. 

After my Glowbar treatment. My skin was GLOWING!

I couldn't stop smiling after my Glowbar facial.

 
Consider this my plea for Glowbar to come to the West Coast immediately if not sooner! 

A facial at Glowbar is $80. Or you can sign up for a membership and get 1 facial per month for $65. Find a location and book an appointment at glowbar.com.

I have what may be considered a sliiiight problem when it comes to beauty products. Namely, that I like to try new ones. A lot. I mean, A LOT. As a beauty writer, I try hundreds of beauty products every year — and, yes, I'm being serious. My neighbors kind of can't believe the amount of packages showing up at my door every day. (This isn't a #humblebrag, I swear.) And while many of those products are good, only a few are truly GREAT. We're talking epic, can't live without them, don't know how my beauty routine survived before them kind of products. Not all of the ones in this list are new, but they are new to me. Keep reading for the 8 best beauty products I've tried in the past 12 months.

Tower 28 Beauty SOS Daily Barrier Recovery Cream
Every time winter rolls around, my skin basically becomes the Sahara. This year has been worse than ever, thanks to yoyo-ing temperatures, trips to even colder climates like Boston and Cleveland, and bad air in Los Angeles from the wildfires. This barrier cream has been a lifesaver for me — no surprise, since it's called SOS! The thick, rich cream is formulated with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to deliver tons of moisture and help plump the skin, and it sinks right in without feeling greasy or heavy. Not too shabby for a barrier cream, I gotta say. I use it every day, and ever since, my skin has remained flake-free, super dewy, and glowing.
$24 at sephora.com

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara
I have pretty long lashes to begin with, so the best thing a mascara can do for me is make them so long, they hit my glasses. Well, mission accomplished, thanks to this unassuming little tube. I actually first discovered it while I was writing a piece for InStyle about the most popular mascaras on Reddit, and I influenced myself to buy it. My lashes are longer, curlier, and thicker in a single swipe, without any clumping, smudging, or flaking. Who needs false lashes when there's a mascara this good?!
$13 at amazon.com

OUAI Scalp & Body Scrub
Truth be told, I don't really use body scrubs very often. No matter which ones I buy and try, I just can't seem to find one I HAVE to have in my arsenal. Until this sweet-smelling one, that is. While I originally bought it to try and reduce scalp flaking, I've actually found that I use it way more often for my flaky, ashy legs! A dime-sized amount on each leg instantly creates soft, smooth, nourished shine, even when they've been crying out for help a moment before.
$40 at sephora.com

L'Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion
Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I'd be using a skin tint or a tinted moisturizer. But, well, here we are. I've been raving about this miracle product to anyone who will listen, whether they want to or not, because it's JUST. THAT. GOOD. I love the lightest shade, 901 Fair, since my skin tone is pretty Casper-like. A few swipes across my cheeks, forehead and chin leave me glowing with a capital GLOWING. I am obsessed. Obsessed, I tell you. I even like to use a little of it under my eyes as concealer, and I swear my raccoon-like dark circles instantly disappear. Do yourself a favor and buy it right now.
$17 at amazon.com

The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum
I never thought another hyaluronic acid product would come along and steal me away from my love for The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum. Well, guess what? As much as I still love my original favorite serum, this is a verrrrry close second. A friend told me to try it about 4 months ago, and it hasn't left my skincare routine since. It's formulated with 2% multi-molecular hyaluronic acid to infuse skin with a veritable burst of hydration, and it seriously does. I also love that it isn't sticky or tacky, and it dries down really quickly, too.
$10 at amazon.com

MERIT Flush Balm in Rouge
Did I ever think I'd become a blush wearer? No, no I did not. But this gorgeous little product made me change my tune. The packaging is ingenious — the blush is a creamy stick, but in a rounded shape. Plus, you can actually use it on your lips, too. I've started dotting the apples of my cheeks and going over my lips with this cherry red shade right before I go out, which leaves them looking, well, flushed. In the absolute best way, of course.
$30 at sephora.com

LAWLESS Forget The Filler Lip Plumper Line Smoothing Gloss
Oh, Forget The Filler lipgloss. How do I love thee? Let me count the ways ... including how gorgeous every color is, how much slicker and plumper my lips look, and how non-sticky your formula is. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I'm especially in love with Cherry Vanilla (bright red) and Juicy Watermelon (hot pink), but really, you can't go wrong.
$26 at sephora.com

Tree Hut Vitamin C Whipped Shea Body Butter
Talk about an impulse purchase that worked out in my skin's favor. I bought this body cream on a total whim, and I fell in love the first time I opened the tub. It smells DELICIOUS — sweet and tangy but not too cloying — and the formula is just like whipped cream. The combination of shea butter and vitamin C make my skin feel super nourished while simultaneously it looks gorgeously radiant. I love that it isn't greasy, so I can put it on my hands and immediately go back to typing away on my laptop (like I did just before writing this). My bodycare routine certainly got an upgrade once I discovered it. I keep it right on my desk, so you know I must be serious!
$11 at amazon.com

My favorite holiday is just around the corner. I look forward to Hanukkah every year — and this year, it coincides with Christmas, so we can have the happiest holiday season of all! Hanukkah starts the evening of Wednesday, December 25, and runs through January 2, 2025. 

I've always loved Hanukkah — and, honestly, not because of the presents I've gotten. (Although I will always love the tradition my mom, brother, and I began years ago, where we'd each have a paper grocery bag under the piano and would toss gifts into them throughout the month leading up to Hanukkah for the others to open.) Lighting the menorah is such a beautiful way to connect to the Jewish faith throughout all eight nights, and singing the prayers with my family (whether IRL or over Facetime) is one of my most-loved traditions of the entire year.

Last year, I put together a Hanukkah gift guide featuring products from Jewish-owned and Israeli-owned brands. In the wake of October 7, connecting with Judaism has become more important to me than ever, and I find it important to encourage shopping from these brands to most truly represent the holiday. To that end, this year's gift guide features a new plethora of gifts from a variety of Jewish and Israeli brands, too! If you need a gift for a friend or family member who celebrates Hanukkah — or you just want to treat yourself (hint, hint), keep reading to discover the 14 best Hanukkah gifts you simply need to get this year.

Factor's Famous Deli Choose Your Own Rugelach
I play trivia every Monday, and one of my teammates brings us a selection of Factor's delicious desserts almost every time. While they're all mouthwatering, I always go for the chocolate chip rugelach, since they're just the right amount of flaky, doughy, and chocolatey. This gift lets you choose two pounds of rugelach in two different flavors, including — of course — the chocolate chip, plus apricot, cinnamon, raisin, and raspberry. In a word? Yum.
$75.95 at goldbelly.com

Ahava The Triple Treat Gift Set
I've been a fan of Ahava for years, and I'm especially in love with their hand creams and bodycare. This set combines both, with a Mineral hand cream, body lotion, and shower gel nestled in a gorgeous gift box.
$30 at ahava.com

Brooke Rayn Tiny Diamond Star of David Necklace
True story: I actually won this exact necklace from Emmanuelle Chriqui earlier this year! I couldn't believe my luck. The necklace is absolutely gorgeous. You get your choice of rose, yellow, or white gold, three different chain lengths, and a miniature Jewish star pendant accented with .08 carats of genuine diamonds. This is a compliment getter for sure.
$440 at brookerayn.com

Jonathan Adler Checkerboard Backgammon Set
I've had my eye on this backgammon set for YEARS. It's bold, fun, colorful, and whimsical — AKA it's exactly what I'd hope Jonathan Adler would create. Who wants to buy it for me? (Wink!)
$425 at jonathanadler.com

Chanita's Naturals Be the Light All Natural Aromatherapy Candles
From the natural beeswax to the beautiful dried flowers, these are candles that are as gorgeous to look at as they are to burn. I also love that Makers of Israel, the website where these can be purchased, aims to connect talented Israeli makers with customers looking to support unique Israeli craftsmanship and small businesses, which is exactly what I want to do right now.
$43 at makersofisrael.com

Alice + Olivia Sunny Staceface Hoodie
Even though I moved away from New York a decade ago, this sweatshirt still speaks to me — and I'm absolutely in love with the adorable Staceface in place of the heart. I've had a longstanding love affair with Alice + Olivia and have purchased multiple treasured pieces over the years, and this one is the cutest yet!
$275 at aliceandolivia.com 

LoveShackFancy Octavia Rosa Beaux Pouch
I'm of the firm belief that you can never have too many pouches. They're great for travel, storing makeup and beauty products in your cabinets, or just having around to stare at lovingly. This one, with its allover bow and floral print, is so gorgeous, I'm definitely planning on keeping it atop my vanity when guests come over just for the compliments.
$135 at loveshackfancy.com

Demeter Fragrance Library Honeysuckle Soy Candle
Honeysuckle always makes me think of my grandma — it was one of her favorite scents. How could I not include a honeysuckle-scented candle from Jewish-owned brand Demeter Fragrance Library, whose scents always smell exactly like what they're supposed to be?! It has a 25-hour burn time, so you're guaranteed hour after hour of sweet, luscious honeysuckle scenting your home.
$21 at demeterfragrance.com

Susan Alexandra Espresso Martini Menorah
My drink of choice? An espresso martini. My favorite Hanukkah pastime? Lighting the menorah. This one Hanukkah gift so expertly combines my love of both that it's like Susan Alexandra took a peek inside my brain. Each espresso bean holds a candle, and the martini is the Shamash. Is it wrong to drink an espresso martini as I light this each night?
$348 at susanalexandra.com

The Jewish Cookbook by Leah Koenig
I've been coveting this cookbook for months. It has so many time-honored Jewish recipes, like noodle kugel and honey cake, and the ones I've tried have been perfect and delicious. Inside the pages are over 400 recipes from the Middle East, Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa. It's worth a spot in any home cook's library.
$54.95 at phaidon.com

Suri Marc Chagall Silver & Yellow Mezuzah Case
Start searching for a mezuzah case and the options seem endless. As soon as my eyes alighted on this beautiful case from Israeli creator Suri, though, I knew I'd found the one. It features a pattern inspired by Marc Chagall stained glass windows, and includes a variety of choices for size and scrolls.
$45 at suri-art.com

Meshugge The Original Hoodie
Okay, I'm obsessed with this sweatshirt. My whole family has been saying "meshugge" for as long as I can remember. Not to mention it's spelled out in Hebrew letters that look like English ones (IYKYK), which just makes this extra unique. Is it wrong that I want to buy one in every color?
$80 at meshugge.org

Da Shayna Punims Not Practicing, Perfected It Mug
Oh.Em.GEEEE. If you haven't heard Paul Rudd's quote about Jews in "Between Two Ferns," you haven't lived. And yes, I'm serious. This is quite possibly the best mug I've seen in quite some time, thanks to his, well, perfect phrase about how perfect we are.
$11 at dashaynapunims.com

Ariel Tidhar Raspberry Swirl Mini Magens Earrings
Want a subtle yet beautiful way to show off your faith? These miniature Jewish star earrings are simple and gorgeous. They come in a variety of colors, including blue, teal, and tortoiseshell, but my eyes were immediately drawn to this pink and white swirl. You can choose between sterling silver or gold-plated posts, and they're pretty affordable, too. I love how delicate yet luxe they are.
$20 at arieltidhar.com

"Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars." Thanks to Astra Lumina, I was lucky enough to experience a moment just like that.

Astra Lumina is a sensory, celestial-themed journey of light and sound that happens every November and December at South Coast Botanic Garden. 

As you walk through the botanical garden, you continue to encounter new ethereal and celestial moments around every corner. There are nine different stunning thematic areas to explore, each illuminated with light and amplified with projection and sound.

I was invited to attend Astra Lumina recently and definitely enjoyed it. I loved the evening walk punctuated with multiple laser and light shows. I have to admit I also thoroughly enjoyed my spiked hot chocolate!

The menu at Astra Lumina. I got the Celestial Hot Cocoa, which was delicious!

Enjoying Astra Lumina with my friend Andrew.

Astra Lumina is happening now through December 15. This experience is $28 for children 4-12 and $39 for people 13+, with optional ticket bundles and drink packages available. Parking is extra (and, as someone with major parking phobias, I'm here to tell you the lot is super easy). Plus, you can save on tickets with code ASTRALUMINAX15 — just click here to purchase tickets.

If you're looking for a unique experience in Los Angeles that brings you closer to nature and the beauty of the night skies, this is absolutely it. You may just find it luminous.

SAVE ON TICKETS TO ASTRA LUMINA WITH CODE ASTRALUMINAX15

My favorite hotel in Las Vegas? Hands down, it's The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. From the well-appointed guest rooms to the luxurious spa, the multiple pools to the variety of restaurants, there truly isn't any comparison. Plus, the location right in the center of the Las Vegas Strip can't be beat! Read on to see why this is where you should stay next time you head to Sin City.

THE ROOMS

I've stayed at The Cosmopolitan multiple times over the years. During my last trip — a girls' weekend with my best friend, where we were supposed to see Shawn Mendes before he canceled his tour (but that's another story for another day), we chose one of the hotel's Terrace Studio rooms.

Every room I've stayed in at The Cosmopolitan has been fantastic, but this one was the best yet. It has super comfortable beds (I was asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow each night!), a bathroom with a large soaking tub, and even a terrace with a fabulous view of the city below.

The queen beds in the Terrace Studio room at The Cosmopolitan

The seating area in the Terrace Studio Room at The Cosmopolitan

The luxurious soaking tub in the Terrace Studio room at The Cosmopolitan

 THE RESTAURANTS

There's no shortage of amazing restaurants in Vegas. However, the absolute best are all found at The Cosmopolitan! While we did leave the hotel occasionally, we actually enjoyed multiple meals here, simply because there are so many inviting choices at arm's length. We chose to dine at three different restaurants in the hotel during this trip:

Jaleo by José Andrés

A Spanish tapas restaurant with dish after mouthwatering dish.

A dish at Jaleo by José Andrés at The Cosmopolitan

Momofuku

David Chang's Vegas outpost of his popular chain. I'd wanted to eat here for years, and it did not disappoint!

The Pork Belly Buns at Momofuku by David Chang at The Cosmopolitan

Eggslut

One of my go-to restaurants in Los Angeles for amazing breakfast sandwiches (I order from here fairly frequently!). We definitely had to stop in for breakfast! Be prepared to wait in a pretty long line.

The egg salad sandwich from Eggslut at The Cosmopolitan

THE POOLS

I have a hot tip for you. If you have the chance, get a cabana at one of The Cosmopolitan's pools. We treated ourselves to one at the Chelsea Pool (another hot tip: get one during the week, because it's cheaper than on the weekend), and we had the best time! Your fee for the cabana includes your food and beverages for the day, plus you get a quiet location away from the hustle and bustle of the pool (also some built-in shade, which is nice for pale people like myself!). We opted for the Chelsea Pool because it was a bit quieter and more relaxed — if you like more of a party vibe, try the Boulevard Pool.

Enjoying time outside the cabana at The Cosmopolitan's Chelsea Pool

Imbibing in an alcoholic dole whip at The Chelsea Pool at The Cosmopolitan

Besties enjoying time in our cabana at The Cosmopolitan's Chelsea Pool

Frolicking at The Chelsea Pool at The Cosmopolitan

THE SPA

I've visited Sahra Spa, Salon & Hammam on multiple visits to Vegas, and it is always, always a treat. Whether you enjoy the bathing ritual and hammam, or get a massage or facial, you will not be disappointed. I upgraded my facial to a Hydrafacial on my last visit, and my skin was glowing.

The stunning entrance to Sahra Spa, Salon & Hammam at The Cosmopolitan

All in all, The Cosmopolitan is an absolute must when you're in Las Vegas. To book a stay, visit cosmopolitanlasvegas.com.

Hanukkah starts this Thursday, December 7. It's my favorite holiday — not because of the gifts, although of course getting eight nights of presents as a kid was pretty darn amazing. My mom, brother and I would each put a large grocery bag underneath our piano, and then we'd toss in gifts for each other for the month or so leading up to Hanukkah until they were all but overflowing!

But, even as a kid, what I loved more than the gifts was the traditions we as Jews celebrate during this time. I love lighting the menorah, and have actually lit it with my mom and brother over FaceTime for years if we can't be together (though the photo above is of my mom and me lighting it on the last night, two years ago). I love the latkes and the sufganiyot (donuts). I love playing the dreidel game (and hopefully winning the most Hanukkah gelt). I love the songs and the Hanukkah candle blessings. Most of all, I love the fact that this holiday represents a time when the Jews refused to let our light go out, both literally and figuratively. In this time that's rife with antisemitism and a rise in hatred against Jews and Israel, that means more to me than ever before.

To that end, I decided to create a Hanukkah gift guide this year. I haven't put together gift guides on the blog in awhile, but I really wanted to find a way to celebrate this holiday. All of the products in this guide are by Jewish-owned and Israeli-owned brands — it was important to me to have them truly represent this holiday. If you're looking for a gift for a friend or family member who celebrates Hanukkah — or you just want one for yourself (hint hint), keep reading to discover the 13 best Hanukkah gifts worthy of the eight nights of lights!

Jonathan Adler Vice Glitter Canister
Honestly, I can't recommend this canister highly enough. I own one and it's a showstopper! I love all of the Vice canisters, thanks to their cheeky phrases, but I've always gravitated toward GLITTER. Give this to a friend to show them just how much they sparkle in your life.
$95 at jonathanadler.com

Economy Candy Hanukkah Candycare Pack
Anyone who's anyone in New York knows about Economy Candy. It's a mainstay of the Lower East Side — it's been there since the 1930s! I've always loved walking into the store and seeing the floor-to-ceiling candy. Now that I live in LA, I need to settle for it long distance — so this gift set, filled with everything from Hanukkah gelt to kosher chocolates, is an absolute must. Each one is unique, so you know what that means ... you gotta buy multiples!
$89.95 at goldbelly.com

Naot Calm Slippers
I've become pretty obsessed with slippers over the past year, mainly due to the fact that my hardwood floors are, well, slippery! As I've amassed a fairly large collection to slip into, a brand that's coming to the forefront is Naot. This Israeli-owned brand has been around since 1942, when people started making shoes in a one-room workshop on Kibbutz Naot Mordechai. They call them "shoes of peace," which I personally love all the time, but especially now. The Calm Slippers are vegan and designed in a fleece-lined scuff silhouette with a comfortable padded foam insole. Sign me up.
$74.95 at naot.com

Russ & Daughters Weekender Box
Another staple from my time in New York? Russ & Daughters. Until you've had one of their bagels and tried their myriad smoked fish varieties (herring, yum), you haven't truly lived. My mouth is watering just reading the description of everything that comes in this box — your choice of plain, everything, poppy or sesame bagels, two different cream cheeses, a loaf of rye bread, chocolate babka, nova salmon, hot smoke and cold smoke, and salmon salad. In a word, OMG. They say this serves 12, but I'm sure my little family of three could take it down pretty easily.
$234 at goldbelly.com

Lele Sadoughi Cotton Candy Rectangle Crystal Plaid Knotted Headband
When it comes to Lele Sadoughi, every single headband is a work of art. I want them all, truthfully, but this one is a standout thanks to its pretty pink and blue plaid flannel pattern and multitude of crystal embellishments. Slip this on, and you may just shine brighter than the menorah!
$195 at lelesadoughi.com

Susan Alexandra Pickle Mensch Earrings
Susan Korn's collection of kitschy-yet-cute jewelry and bags has always been one of my favorites. And a pair of earrings with dangling pickles?! How could you go wrong! The earrings are handmade in bronze, the bow design is beautiful, and the little pickle is just the most delicious accoutrement.
$138 at susanalexandra.com

Stoney Clover Lane Classic Jumbo Fanny Pack in Bubblegum
Stoney Clover is one of my very favorite brands. I've actually lost count of how many items I own from the brand — but the fanny packs top my list for their utility, function, and overall cuteness! I have two already, and let's face it, I'll be buying more. This one, in their Barbie Pink "Bubblegum" hue, is an absolute must for any Barbie lover this year.
$128 at stoneycloverlane.com

Challah Back Girls Chocolate Chip Challah
I'll take one of every challah by the Challah Back Girls. But the Chocolate Chip Challah is definitely at the top of my list! I love that you can purchase a challah once, once a week, every two weeks, or every three weeks. And, of course, I love that this particular challah is stuffed with chocolate chips. Talk about a Shabbat Tov (good Sabbath).
Starting at $11.70 at challahbackgirls.com

Candleschtick Here for the Brisket Tee
The phrase on this Candleschtick T-shirt really says it all. I am always, always here for the brisket. My Bubby made the world's best brisket (ask any Jew and they'll probably say the same thing, but I know I'm right about mine). Honor your Bubby with this unisex tee in soft, ring-spun cotton. It comes in 15 different colors, too!
$32 at candleschtick.com

AHAVA Mud About You Gift Set
You can't think of Israel and not think of the Dead Sea. Floating in it is an indescribable experience — until you do it, it's just unfathomable to think there's no way you'll ever sink to the bottom. I did it during my Birthright Trip, and it's one of the coolest experiences of my entire life. To that end, I love that AHAVA responsibly sources their ingredients to preserve the Dead Sea's ecological balance. While there are a multitude of amazing products to choose from, this gift set is a must-have, thanks to its trio featuring the Essential Day Moisturizer, Mineral Hand Cream and Purifying Mud Mask.
$95 at ahava.com

Hayden B. Jewelry Half Moon Hoop Earrings
For delicate jewelry that makes a statement, look no further than Hayden B. Jewelry. The founder, Brittany, is actually my old therapist (and the person I credit with helping me become happy and healthy after moving to LA eight years ago). Aside from her former therapy work, her jewelry-making skills are next level. The whole brand is beautiful, but the Half Moon Hoops have my heart, thanks to the oversized yet dainty silhouette and colorful glass beads.
$48 at haydenbjewelry.com

Sabon Blush Gourmand Gift Set
Sabon is a brand I've loved for over a decade, but it wasn't until recently that I learned it's Israeli! Like AHAVA, it originates from the Dead Sea. Their beauty products all smell delectable and are incredibly nourishing. I love the Blush Gourmand Gift Set because it's packed with six of the brand's heavy hitters, including a hand cream, candle, diffuser, and shower oil.
$84 at sabon.com

Whipnotic Variety Swirl
Why not take whipped cream to the next level with sweeter flavors? Whipnotic, a brand founded by Jewish sisters Tracy and Lori, is KETO-friendly, gluten-free, artificial flavor-free and has only 15 calories and 1 gram of sugar per serving. The Variety Swirl has Strawberry Swirl, Peach Mango, Vanilla Salted Caramel and Brownie Batter whipped creams to add that certain je ne sweet quoi to every recipe. Is it wrong that I want to eat the entire can in one sitting? (Only half kidding.)
$32 at whipnotic.com

FYI the Hey Dewy Wireless Facial Humidifier is bringing life (and dewiness!) back to my skin. I'm absolutely in love with this little humidifying wonder! And there are 7 very important reasons why. Keep reading to find out what they are.

The top 7 reasons I'm in love with the Hey Dewy Wireless Facial Humidifier (in no particular order):

1) It's teeny and portable! You can even use it in your car!

2) It can be charged up and then used for 8 continuous hours. That's a heck of a lot of humidifying, if you ask me.

3) It has both continuous and intermittent humidifying settings. I prefer the continuous setting (give me alllll the humidifying, please), but I like being able to choose.

4) It features a super fun nightlight that can be turned on and off. And who doesn't love a nightlight?

5)  It's super, SUPER quiet. Even when you're holding it directly in front of your face, you can barely hear it. It's way different than the humidifier my family had when I was young, which emitted the loudest hum I somehow still hear in my dreams sometimes.

6) It comes in five different colors, including this absolutely adorable Blush hue! (In case you — gasp! — want a different color, it's also available in white, light grey, light blue, and mint.)

7) It's only $60! A serious bargain, if you ask me.

Are those enough reasons for you? I'm so happy this is part of my normal skincare routine now. If you'll excuse me, I'm off to dewify my skin!

The Hey Dewy Wireless Facial Humidifier retails for $60 at heydewy.com.

During a recent trip to New Orleans, I was invited to experience the fabulous Hot Tin at The Pontchartrain Hotel. I said yes faster than you can say, "Tennessee Williams wrote Cat on a Hot Tin Roof while he lived in New Orleans!" I'm always a fan of a rooftop bar, and Hot Tin does not disappoint. Read on to find out more about this can't-miss spot in NOLA!

Inspired by a 1940s artist loft, Hot Tin holds curiosities around every corner. You never know what you may find next to you! I especially loved finding unique paintings, board games, and typewriters throughout the space.

A fun portrait right when you step off the elevator to Hot Tin.

I could have spent hours poring through all of the unique curiosities found around Hot Tin.

I'm a sucker for old typewriters, and I loved finding this old Royal one.

But here's what I'm really here to talk about ... the cocktails. Wow, is it worth going to Hot Tin for one of these! They're $14 each, and truly spectacular. My mom and I pored over the menu and had quite a difficult time choosing because every single one sounded utterly divine! 

So many delicious cocktails to choose from!

We finally settled on:

The Burn Book
Gentilly barrel aged gin, passion fruit, chareau, lime, housemade orgeat

Back to Black
Cathead honeysuckle vodka, vermouth, blackberry, lavender, lemon, egg white

The cocktails at Hot Tin are as beautiful as they are delicious!

The Back to Black and Burn Book cocktails at Hot Tin.

Each cocktail was perfectly made and perfectly delicious — we definitely savored every sip!

The Back to Black cocktail at Hot Tin.

I also loved the beautiful turquoise floral design on the Back to Black, which was such a gorgeous touch.

The stunning view from the rooftop at Hot Tin.
And, since we all know you come to a rooftop bar for the views ... well, of course they don't disappoint! The bar offers a seriously stunning 270-degree view of Downtown New Orleans and the Mississippi River. While there are plenty of seats inside, going out onto the balcony is certainly not to be missed! 

Enjoying a night out with my mom at The Pontchartrain Hotel's rooftop bar, Hot Tin.

If you're in New Orleans and need a fun bar with excellent cocktails, Hot Tin should absolutely be on your list. The bar opens at 2pm every day and is first come, first served. We went on a Friday night and it was PACKED (shout out to Hot Tin for reserving a table for us with the most fun, throne-like chairs we'd ever seen!). I'd recommend going early for the best seat — and the best view, of course!

For more information about Hot Tin, visit hottinbar.com.

Ready, set, glow! I'm always, always looking for a facial that will leave my skin hydrated, youthful-looking, dewy, and super glowy. And I've found it at Formula Fig in West Hollywood!

I was searching lately for a new spot to get a facial — primarily in West Hollywood, though I would basically travel the earth for great skin. In my research, I happened upon Formula Fig, and I just knew on sight that it was worth checking out.

This Canadian-based spa just opened their first location in Los Angeles in March. It immediately captivated me with its gorgeous green interior, convenient location, and must-have selection of products. But it's the treatment menu that really sealed the deal for me.

The beautiful interior of Formula Fig.

When it comes to facials, Formula Fig works a bit differently than other spas and salons. They offer a variety of injectables and high tech facials, all of which target different skin concerns and needs. While I'm not opposed to Botox (or Stingers, as they're referred to here), I really wanted to focus on overall hydration and nourishment for my skin.

I loved all of the photo moments found at this space.

Each facial is 30 minutes, with incredible results! After perusing the menu of treatments — there are a whopping six different facials to choose from! — I selected the Hydrate + Glow core facial. This facial includes a mix of technology, tools, and products that leave skin looking radiant and feeling hydrated (of course).

THE TECHNOLOGY

Diamond-Tip Microdermabrasion: A form of advanced exfoliation that helps remove dead skin cells, stimulate new cellular growth, and give the skin a fresher look. I've had microdermabrasion before, and this experience was super easy and calming; the microdermabrasion tip felt like a light pressured scratching across my face. I've also noticed a lot of flaking and peeling from other microdermabrasion sessions that lasted up to a week in the past, but this one didn't produce any unsightly peeling afterward!

Pressurized Oxygen Serum Infusion: This cooling, calming oxygen is sprayed onto the skin to help absorb serums and improve skin's hydration levels. It's used with 98% pure oxygen so active ingredients can deeply penetrate the skin.

LED Light Therapy: This form of light therapy penetrates the skin to help rejuvenate, repair tissue, reduce inflammation, decrease harmful bacteria, and stimulate collagen.

Ultrasonic Skin Slider: It uses high frequency to gently dislodge dirt and debris on skin's surface and help exfoliate.

THE PRODUCTS AND TREATMENT

First of all, the treatment rooms are cozy and inviting. While other spas and salons may have you change into a robe or facial wrap, here, you simply climb up into the comfortable chair and lean back. I actually didn't mind staying in my regular clothes, especially since the session is only 30 minutes.

Inside the treatment room.

But it's the treatment and products itself that are the real stars. What I loved most is how customized it was to my skin. My skin expert, Crystal, made sure to use products that were meant for my skin type, texture, and needs. The products she chose for my skin are:

Double Cleanse

Dr. Loretta Gentle Hydrating Cleanser

Odacité Blue Aura Cleansing Water

Balance

VENN Synbiotic Defense Mist

Treat

VENN Age-Response Compound K Hyaluronic Booster

Protect

Dr. Loretta Urban Antioxidant Sunscreen SPF 40

A few of the products my skin expert, Crystal, used.

THE RESULTS

I came in with skin that was dull, dehydrated, flaky, pretty much just not how I wanted it to look OR feel. After just 30 minutes, my skin immediately felt so dewy, refreshed, and hydrated. I literally could FEEL the difference from before and after the treatment! Almost a week later, my skin is still so nourished and hydrated that I have barely even needed to moisturize (though, of course, I have been) — it's baby soft and insanely glowy.

After my Hydrate + Glow treatment at Formula Fig. My skin was GLOWING!

HOW IT WORKS

So, curious about how Formula Fig works? There are two ways to experience the magic here.

Option 1: Drop In

If you don't need monthly treatments or aren't ready to commit, you can book a one-off for any treatment offered at Formula Fig. Cost varies, depending on the treatment — for example, the drop-in price for Hydrate + Glow is $145, while the drop-in price for the Lift + Tone is $165 and the All-In is $225.

Option 2: Become a Member

Ready to commit? A membership may be your best bet! There are five different memberships to choose from — the least expensive is Basic ($95/month) lets you alternate each month between a Hydrate + Glow and LED Lymphatic, while the priciest is Premium Flex ($585/month), where you personalize your treatment plan with four facials a month.

The menu outside Formula Fig with pricing.

Another pricing menu hangs at reception.

Whether you do a drop in or sign up for a membership, it's really just about what works best for you. I haven't gotten a membership yet, but I am strongly considering it since my skin responded so well to the Hydrate + Glow — and I definitely want to experience the other treatments, too!

For more information about Formula Fig and to book an appointment, visit formulafig.com.