Otherwise, the word simply has lost its’ original meaning, which for me was quite synonymous with another word I love, #RESORT.

2020 did graciously give me one resort escape early on last January to Mexico for a sorority sister’s wedding, which was nothing short of amazing, especially in hindsight now, knowing what was to come soon after.

But I have also learned after living almost ten years in Southern California that resort can show up in many other ways outside of a Caribbean vacation, perhaps in the desert, backyard and yes, even one’s living room. Of course I consider myself lucky to have easy access to places that exude the resort worthy feels, such as these lovely shot locations on Melrose Place.

Resort is a state of being rather than a destination I suppose, just one I have always needed a plane ticket or hotel reservation to fully settle into. The reality, however, is that even though sunshine and pre-planned respite are the perhaps the most perfect ingredients for resorting oneself (yes I made up that use of the verb), maybe we can actually practice finding peace and restoration from the comfort of our own homes if we make the consorted effort?

And if 2020 taught me anything, it’s that we absolutely must find ways of tuning out of the daily hustle of life while also being right in the midst of it. We must create restorative practices and release the weight of this bustling world we’ve created to relax our bodies and souls more frequently, with no passport required.

Before 2020, I didn’t do this very well while on vacation, as remaining connected to the things that cause stress, excitement and extensive energy remained a finger lengths distance in my iPhone. So this practice was one that had to be consciously addressed the second I landed somewhere special.

Damn, I am so much more grateful for those magical experiences away now that I almost hate the fact that I didn’t truly embrace them in the moment. But perhaps it’s an opportunity to appreciate them so much more now in the future.

So let’s find some ways to experience RESORT at home, outside of browsing my Piña colada inspired picks. Some of my ways to unwind have been a steamy soak in the tub, indulging in a beach read on the patio, a walk amongst afternoon sunshine (if you’re lucky to have some this time of year) and if all else fails, a colorful cocktail before 5pm?

Two resort seasons ago my husband and I had the pleasure of traveling to Havana, Cuba, one of most interesting places I’ve ever traveled to before. After one two many overtly sweet mojitos I quickly jumped aboard the Hemingway Daiquiri train as we ventured into El Floridita, otherwise famously known as Hemingway’s Bar given he’d spent so much of his time there. I’ll never forget how perfect a vibe I felt heading inside after dinner for a cocktail and amazing live music. We sat at small cafe table right near the bar and entertainment, having what I am sure feels like to most tourists a very “authentic” Havana night experience, with only romantic ideas about where the night would go afterwards.

Might I add to fully understand the romance, our phones simply did not work as most cell phones didn’t, and most people didn’t have cell phones there making everyone around both locals and tourists alike completely disconnected from the internet and completely focused on the present moment. Mine involving a love affair with this icy fresh drink.

I’m happy to report that was the best night of the trip and one of the best experiences traveling with Arthur. Long story short we ended up at the most underground nightclub, with only Havana natives in sight and exclusively contemporary Cuban music playing along with coordinated music videos. In fact the place was so underground that after a million google map searches I still to this day can’t locate the exact address or name of the venue we frequented, my only memory being some of locals’ facial expressions while Arthur and I believed ourselves to posses rhythm.

But I digress.

Here is the simplest of tropical cocktail recipes I can muster and one that really will transport you into a state of relaxation, whether enjoyed by the pool or next to your heater.

Enjoy responsibly.

Cabana Boy Daiquiri

SERVES TWO

~1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lime juice

~double shot of rum

~1 tablespoon fresh squeezed grapefruit juice

~simple syrup to taste (I used 3/4 tablespoon)

~pretty garnish (I used blood orange slices dried out but other ideas are pineapple, blackberries and edible flowers)

~2 cups of ice

DIRECTIONS // Blend all ingredients (aside from garnish) together in a blender, pour into glasses, garnish, take a breath and enjoy!

And if all other attempts at a full escape fail take a page from my book and find ways to hide in a car, at a park, whatever works for you and brings you some joy.

Maybe even under the brim of a beautiful straw, especially one whose been destined to a life inside a closet for this last year, dreaming about its future adventures abroad, one day hopefully very soon.