SPRING GREETINGS DEAR FRIENDS!

I am elated to see borders reopening after two years, inquiries and bookings on the rise and our esteemed travel partners / suppliers primed to share their amazing destinations.

Nothing brings me more pleasure than receiving so many positive comments regarding our clients’ experiences as they continue to explore distant lands and resume exploration of various global destinations. Travel is back, and we remain eager to share it with you!

DISCOVER YOUR SELF ~ Discover the World Anew
Exploration begins from within and leads to deeper connections with the surrounding world.

WHO LIKES (LOVES) HAWAII & HER ISLANDS AND SHAVE ICE??

You’ve just ended a great day at the beach – the sun was shining bright upon your skin, the ocean was crystal clear, just the way you like it… Oh, and you finally have the tan you’ve been waiting for. You’re headed home, thinking nothing could make this day any better. Suddenly, your sweet tooth kicks in and all that comes to mind on this hot sunny day is SHAVE ICE!  The perfect sunny day treat. You can scoop it, slurp it, coat it – oh boy, my mouth is watering at the thought! Who knew ice could morph into something so good?! You’re on the hunt for the cure to your shave ice thirst – but where should you go?

In Hawai‘i, shave ice is a staple! Loved by locals and tourists alike, it’s a must have for anyone visiting the islands. Whether you’re dying for a coconut and banana syrup mixture (my favorite) or looking for the ice cream on the bottom — nothing makes a hot day better than a serving of fresh Hawaiian shave ice. Whether you’re walking down a street of shops or stumbling upon a row of food trucks, you’re bound to find a shave ice joint on the islands. We’ve gathered up the best local favorites to help you decide where to go when you want to bask in the flavor of a local favorite.

On O‘ahu, locals love to go to Matsumoto’s in Haleiwa town  — a true shave ice veteran (they’ve been in business for over 70 years!). Matsumoto’s is a family-owned business with more syrup options than one could imagine. From classics like vanilla, strawberry, and banana to an array of local obscurities like papaya and li hing mui — you’re sure to be in for a treat!

On Kaua‘i, there’s one name that’s always been the talk of the town, Jojo’s! Located in both Waimea and Hanalei, Jojo’s is known for their homemade secret toppings — a definite crowd pleaser!  Oh, and you better get your taste buds ready. Jojo’s has over 60 flavors to choose from. Sooo ‘ono.

If you’re into all-natural syrups and toppings, Hawaii island has just what you need. Original Big Island Shave Ice Co. is a must have treat for any visitor. Dating back to 1957, Original Big Island Shave Ice Co. has certainly made a name for themselves over the years with homemade recipes and traditional rainbow creations it’s no wonder shave ice lovers from across the world try their sweet ice. Flavors of Big Island topped with love (aka picked mango), is there any way I could get a first-class ticket please?!

Finally, let’s take it to the valley isle. If you’re on Maui, one place is an absolute MUST try – Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice! Known for their Maui-inspired topping combinations like No Ka Oi (Coconut, Lilikoi and Mango), Ululani’s will have your tastebuds doing the tango. And that’s not all, Ululani’s also uses Maui-made Roselani ice cream at the bottom, so you’re literally digging for gold!

So, there you have it folks! If you’re in for a treat, then nothing cures a sweet tooth quite like the sweet, chill perfection of Hawaiian shave ice. Happy Scooping!

GIFTING REST (ORATION)
Mothers give so much – to children, partners, family, and friends – there is sometimes little left for themselves.  This Mother’s Day, skip brunch, flowers & store-bought gifts – consider selecting a GIFT that will transform those who
M-O-M for life ~ A Celebra-cation® of the Heart!!
For those celebrating this Mother’s Day without your dear, sweet Mom – I feel you – I lost my sweet Mom a little over a year ago.
I celebrate her memory every single day, sometimes solo and other times with my family members.
Exploration begins from within and leads to deeper connections with the surrounding world.
We invite you to find moments that redefine your ideas of luxury and adventure, as you dream about immersing yourself in new travel experiences.  We are excited to share the possibilities with you!

DISCOVER YOUR SELF ~ Discover the World Anew
What does it look like to follow your joy and learn what makes your heart sing?
Set Intentions ~ Spark Joy
What are YOU seeking clarity about?
Your life? Your health? A loss?
DISCOVER.  FIND BLISS.  INDULGE.

We Believe That Kindness & Caring are Contagious
With every season and for every reason, our hearts remain with those in UKRAINE who are experiencing unimaginable challenges.
We hope you have chosen a humanitarian resource to make a difference for those who are in need.
“When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace.”
– Jimi Hendrix

There are few greater luxuries in life than spending time with family, and nothing brings the family together quite like exploring a new destination together.
Travel provides so many opportunities for meaningful interactions and memory-making experiences.
Travel Bans have been lifted and modified – travel is happening!
We would love to share some of the destinations we believe best suit life’s treasured moments ~ providing a little Zen, a little Adventure, a little Nature, and a lot of Pleasure for your Paradise!

Remember, there is always something to celebrate ~ we remain grateful to have served clients globally for over 26 years!

Wishing you peace, health, happiness & love ~
Denise, Ashley & Annika

Homemade Red Licorice Sticks

Ingredients

½ cup flour
1 pinch Himalayan pink salt (or kosher salt)
½ cup butter (or coconut oil)
¼ cup honey (or brown rice syrup, or blackstrap molasses)
1 cup cane sugar
½ cup sweetened condensed milk (learn to make your own)
1 teaspoon licorice extract (make your own using the instructions below)
1 teaspoon beetroot juice (optional, for color)

Directions

Combine the dry licorice recipe ingredients in a mixing bowl. Set aside.

In a saucepan, combine the sugar, syrup, milk, and coconut oil (or butter). Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Continue to heat and stir until the temperature reaches 240°F. This is the softball stage. You can check the temperature with a candy thermometer or by dropping a small spoonful into a glass of cold water. Reach into the water and try to form a ball from the syrup with your fingers. It if stays together for a few seconds, it’s ready.

Remove from the heat right away and pour over the flour mixture. Mix well.

Add the beetroot juice for color and the licorice extract for flavor. Mix these in well too.

Pour the mixture in a greased pan and set in the refrigerator for about an hour, or until set and well chilled.

When chilled, turn out onto a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper and cut into strips with a pizza cutter, keeping the strips about ⅓ to ½-inch wide. Twist them if you like.