Napa Valley: A Local Charts a Curated Tasting Weekend

by Anita McLean | Photos courtesy Auberge du Soleil

On Spring Mountain, owners of Fantesca Estate & Winery Susan and Duane Hoff bought some of Charles Krug’s original land grant estate containing an alleged silver mine, which was transformed into a wine cave through a mining permit. (No small feat in Napa County!) This proved to be fortuitous, as it provided them a safe haven from which to fight the Glass Fire of 2020, fireproofing their investment. Their All Great Things, a red blend by Heidi Barrett, is a fan favorite and was named after a Winston Churchill quote. Fun fact: their wine corks have ‘fortunes’ on them; clever sayings meant to spark conversation while sharing a bottle with friends.

Flying in? Napa’s APC (Napa County Airport) is the best location for private flights, and OAK (Oakland International Airport) is best for commercial jets. Both allow you to avoid the traffic snarl of San Francisco and get straight to the pour.

Morocco: Where Ancient Craftsmanship Meets Modern Indulgence

by Monica Dao | Photos courtesy of Aman

When you think of Morocco, a lot of things come to mind: craftsmanship, color, and centuries of tradition woven into every detail. During my stay in January, it rained nearly every other day after a seven-year drought, but not once did it dampen the experience. If anything, it revealed a different side of Marrakech. It felt intimate, alive, and deeply rooted in community.

A trip to Morocco is not just a getaway; it’s an immersion. You’re enveloped in a sensory world filled with spices in the air, the echo of calls to prayer, and the rhythm of the souks where artisans line every path. Marrakech is a city that pulses with energy. Around every corner, there’s something to discover: hand-stitched leather goods, intricately painted ceramics, woven textiles, and things you didn’t know you needed until you saw them.

But beyond the vibrancy lies an unexpected layer of refinement, one that makes Marrakech a true luxury destination.

Where to Stay
Amanjena offers a serene escape just outside the city’s bustle. With its rose-hued walls, reflecting pools, and palatial architecture inspired by traditional Moroccan design, the property feels more like a private sanctuary than a hotel. Days here move slowly, spent lounging in sun-drenched courtyards, indulging in spa treatments, and retreating to expansive pavilions that blur the line between indoor and outdoor living.

Equally iconic is Royal Mansour, a masterpiece commissioned by the King of Morocco himself. More than a hotel, it is a collection of private riads, each intricately designed by master artisans. Hidden courtyards, hand-carved wood, and detailed zellige tilework create an atmosphere that is both opulent and deeply authentic. With discreet service and unmatched attention to detail, it’s a stay that feels entirely your own.

What to Do
A hot air balloon ride at sunrise offers a breathtaking perspective of the surrounding desert and Atlas Mountains, where the stillness of the landscape contrasts beautifully with the city’s energy.

For a more grounded experience, getting lost in the souks of the Medina is essential. Here, luxury takes the form of craftsmanship: one-of-a-kind pieces, handmade and steeped in tradition.

For those looking to venture further, a desert excursion provides an unforgettable escape. Whether it’s a day trip or an overnight stay in a luxury desert camp, the vastness of the landscape and the quiet it offers is unlike anything else.

No visit is complete without indulging in a traditional hammam ritual. Rooted in centuries of Moroccan culture, this experience goes beyond relaxation. It’s a full body reset. From cleansing scrubs to restorative oils, it’s as rejuvenating as it is culturally significant.

Marrakech is vibrant yet tranquil, historic yet indulgent. It’s a place where luxury isn’t just defined by five-star stays, but by the richness of experience, the beauty of craftsmanship, and the feeling that every moment is layered with meaning.