#winery visitor experience

[constructiondesignbuildtips]

5 Tips for Winery Renovations: Boost Your Vineyard’s Success

Introduction to Winery Renovations Why Renovate? Winery renovations are a great way to keep your vineyard fresh and appealing. Renovations can attract more visitors, make wine production smoother, and even boost your sales. Whether you want to update old equipment, redesign your tasting room, or make your winery more eco-friendly, renovating can bring new life to your business. Planning Your…

[ofoceansandtombsanew]

Of All Things, I Became an Oceanid

You always imagined that if you woke up in the world of Genshin, the possibilities of being a Visionless wielder of elements and a slew of romantic shenanigans would lie in your wake. But when you instead find yourself in the body of an Oceanid with romance likely out of the question, your only conclusion is that the gods of reincarnation isekai hate your guts.

cw. you're an oceanid

pairing. navia x reader, kaeya x reader, childe x reader (separate)

notes. don't feel like being an oceanid today? well go ahead and go to the series masterlist and see what your life could be if you were something else in genshin.

So you're an Oceanid now.

You suppose there are worse things you could have turned into. God, imagine if you turned into a hilichurl or something like that. Yeah, you'll take being a graceful water being over a hilichurl any day.

You can talk, you can wield Hydro and you can go literally anywhere you want as long as water is present. It's honestly not that bad of a deal, you can be Mx. Worldwide if you so desire it.

As for finding company with your fellow lochfolk? That's not really much an option, all things considered. As it stands now, Oceanids follow one simple rule.

You stay in your lake, they stay in theirs and you call it a day.

Kaeya

Considering Springvale's small pond is already taken, you decide to call dibs on Starfell Lake since after Rhodeia made even the waters of the Dawn Winery bitter, you figured it would be better to try a source lake not connected to her spot in Liyue

To be honest when it came to being an Oceanid, you figured you didn't really need to become the companion of any of the characters

You're more than content to stay in your lake and mind your business. But truthfully, it does get boring, so when you saw Kaeya's reflection peering into your waters, you popped your head up to say hi almost instinctively

Apart from a brief look of surprise, that's the extent of your attempt to seem regal and mysterious in front of the Calvary Captain

"A water faerie so far from Fontaine? I can't believe my eye; this is the certainly the last thing I was expecting to see while out on a stroll."

It's not everyday you meet something so exciting and considering what happened after encountering the Traveler and Paimon, Kaeya decides to listen to his instincts that there'll be a lot to come from interacting with you

Because of this, Kaeya is a frequent visitor to your lake besides the people who occasionally stop by to clean the statue of the Seven

You ask him about the daily gossip of Mondstadt and he asks you about the life of being a water faerie, a fair trade even if most of your information is based on your memory of the Genshin wiki page and the limited personal experience you have

Kaeya's made a joke about how your meeting is something one might read in a romance novel, much to your embarrassment

Is he serious or no?

It's not like there haven't been any Human/Oceanid relationships in this game so it isn't completely out of the ordinary when you think about it...

At the same time though, you don't want to look super eager

One particular night, a long silence fell over you both when you asked him about his family. He tells you a bit about his past, about being adopted into the Ragnvindr family and his present less than savory relationship with Diluc

You ask if he's lonely to which he asks in return "do I seem lonely?" yet there is no bite in his tone nor is there any sarcasm either. his gaze is thoughtful but miles away from your lake

"Yes" are the words on your non-existent tongue yet you can't bring yourself to say it, all while a warm hand brushes against your watery cheek much too quickly

Navia

Being an Oceanid in Fontaine pre-Neuvillette's judgement was pretty much impossible, thankfully you airdropped into Teyvat after that deciding to call an area near Poisson your home

As to how you met Navia, you heard her crying by the sea as she does sometimes after getting new flowers for the grave of her father and much like the Spring Faerie of Springvale, you answered the call and swam to the surface

She thought maybe you were Melus or Silver, or maybe some other lost soul of Poisson. You quickly let her know that wasn't actually the case, much to Navia's initial disappointment

But Navia is an optimist, first and foremost. So she won't let the reality of the situation get her down and would ask you a bunch of questions. Afterall, Oceanids are thought to be practically extinct in Fontaine after Egeria's death so she doesn't want to waste the opportunity to learn more about you

And boy do her questions range from genuinely thought provoking to so silly it leaves you both in a fit of laughter

It's a first meeting that does Navia good, there she was so sad and then you came and turned the entire situation inside out. She promises to make you macarons as thanks, if lochfolk can even eat

Truthfully, you don't know if you can either. It's not like it's necessary to eat as you are now but fuck it you want to find out for yourself

Navia is also quick to invite you live in the waters of Poisson in general, or at least settle in if you ever want to visit and see the town for yourself

You take her up on the offer to have, if anything, a change of scenery and to see more people out and about than you normally would

You truthfully enjoy a nice yap session with Navia, it's never boring when she's around even if the most you're doing is watching her dish out orders from your comfortable pond in Poisson

But the best hangout sessions you have are when you are a good distance from the place and she can chat with you freely. She'll bring a basket of snacks, a blanket to sit on and you'll chat the day away

Sometimes she'll even bring a sketchbook and attempt to draw your portrait. Navia isn't the best artist but you enjoy looking at her artwork nonetheless

A small secret of her heart though is that Navia is quite sure that as a young girl she dreamed of something like this. Meeting an Oceanid by lakeside and falling in love before willingly being taken into the depths of Fontaine to eternally perform a watery dance of love

Maybe she can't do some of those things as the boss of Spina di Rosula, but maybe the former... maybe she's just been reading too many romance novels

Childe

When it comes to Childe, you truly lucked out in becoming an Oceanid when you lost the isekai 50/50. Because if you were something couldn't talk like a Thunder Manifestation or a Geovishap... you'd be assed out

For he, Tartaglia, is constantly finding ways to become stronger and that includes fighting mythical beings he comes across

But hey, Childe is no barbarian. Anything that can talk and beg for its life, for the most part, isn't a viable option for honing his skills

So congratulations, you narrowly avoided becoming a hashtag in someone's twitter bio twice in a row

Childe quickly laughs off your near brush with death and he dodges the spout of water you send his way. Sadly, he's somewhat charming when he says "come on, in my defense I didn't think you had any real intelligence! Now that I know we can easily become buddies, I'm sure!"

Maybe it's guilt (you doubt it), maybe it's a bit of youthful wonder permeating his soul (you're sure it's this), but he makes it a point to visit you while he is in Fontaine

Yeah, you lost another 50/50 by being airdropped into Fontaine during its Archon Quest but miraculously the water isn't painful. Maybe it's because you're technically not from this world and it grants you some sort of immunity? You're not sure

You are sure of, however, the fact that Childe comes to visit you like he gets paid for it

Apparently he wants to chat it up with you so he has plenty of interesting stories for his younger siblings when he visits them next time he is in his homeland

You sadly have a soft spot for it seems for war criminals that also happen to be family-oriented so you indulge him begrudgingly despite the rocky start to your friendship

When he gets arrested, you don't see him for a while and you admittedly grow worried when he doesn't show up even beyond the crisis of the prophecy coming to fruition but isn't like you can just discreetly find a fatuus in a city, let alone a Harbinger

Childe comes to see you soon enough though when he's recovered a substantial amount (barely any at all)

He laughs at you worriedly berate him for being so careless. "I just had to make sure my favorite Oceanid didn't miss me too much, that's all"

[plushibo]

You Experience Homophobia

Characters included: Diluc, Itto, Childe (Part 1, lmk who else you wanna see)

Total word count: 3.8k

He/Him Reader (In Childe's, it's teacher! reader)

Warnings: extreme homophobia (all of them), threats (all of them), mentions to homosexuality being against the archons (all of them), the statement "i would rather d/e before [act of homosexuality]" (Itto), prison (Itto), breaking bones (Itto), mention of past bullying (Itto), ooc (Itto), references to "executing" homosexuals (Childe), Horrible children (Childe), use of Childe's real name,

A/N: I used to experience homophobia constantly in high school, even by the people i trusted and considered to be my greatest friends :[ so I wrote this to comfort myself and I hope it comforts you as well! Please be aware that all of these scenarios have actually happened to me (except for one small part of a situation, which happened to a cishet friend of mine that I connected to homophobia because that's why she was called that).

For the first time in a while, you had the free time to visit your boyfriend at his manor. For once, you were off work the next two days, as well as an empty schedule. You wanted nothing more than to lay beside Diluc and hug him for hours, profiting off his warmth as he held you in his arms.

With a pep in your step, you walked your way to the Dawn Winery, humming a song that had been running in your head for the last few days. You admired the rows of designations as you approached the vineyard. You sneakily plucked one of the fruits and popped it into your mouth as you finally reached the cobbled path. You practically skipped all the way to the door. 

The door opened and you peaked in quietly, entering and shrugging off your coat to hang by the door. There didn’t seem to be anyone nearby, but that didn’t mean very much. You continued your trek through the huge manor, making your way towards Diluc’s office. On the way, you heard a little noise behind you before you were stopped.

“Sir?” You spun around with a kind smile, greeting the woman who stood there. You didn’t recognise her; she must be a newer employee. “You aren’t supposed to be here. Allow me to escort you out.”

You smiled graciously, shaking your head, “Ah, no thank you. Sorry, I have permission to be here.”

She stepped closer, placing the tray she was holding on a nearby surface. “No, I was told we weren’t to have any visitors today. I’m sorry; Master Diluc made that very clear.”

“But I’m not a visitor?” You mentioned. “Well, I mean, I am, but not that kind of visitor. I’m Y/N. Diluc’s boyfriend.”

The maid girl’s brows furrowed and she shook her head, “No need to spew such lewd lies.”

You frowned, taken aback, “Lewd Lies? What about that was lewd or a lie?”

“Master Diluc does not have a boyfriend.” She said the word with… was that disgust? “He wouldn’t stoop so low as such a high ranking official.”

You hummed, eyes narrowed slightly. “Oh, uhm… Okay. Wow. Well, I can wait outside and you can tell him that I’m here, how about that?”

Despite the perfectly reasonable response (which you should have thought about earlier, would have saved this trouble), she shook her head,” I think it’s best if you just leave, Master Diluc was quite adamant about no guests today. I don’t think he would want to meet with someone… like you, anyway.”

You visually reacted, leaning back with wide eyes, “What?” You were surprised. You hadn’t been spoken to like this for years. “Who do you think you’re talking to? I can get you fired in ten seconds. Now, go get Diluc for me.”

She looked aghast, “Do not refer to Master Diluc so casually. He is more powerful than you ever will be. Now, this is the last time I will ask politely. Please exit the premises.” 

You coughed out a laugh, completely shocked at her blatant disrespect. “Do you treat all of Diluc’s guests like this? It’s highly inappropriate and out of line.”

“You have no place to comment on my work ethic. I deal with people with respect. Unless they are unnatural.” She gave you a very disgusted look and appeared to almost gag. Was she being serious or was this one fucked up prank that she was trying to pull on you? How did she not know that you were actually Diluc’s boyfriend?

With a scoff, you turned back towards the stairs, climbing it quickly as you heard her scrambling behind you, urging you to stop. You found Diluc’s office quickly and entered, leaving the door open for the maid to enter behind you.

“Master Diluc! I am so sorry! I tried to keep this creature out of the house, but he just barged in!” The maid said, fearful of Diluc’s power.

Diluc glanced up for a moment before doing a double take. He completely ignored you for a moment when his gaze noticed you standing there. “Did you just call him a creature?” He repeated, disbelief coating his honeyed words.

You nodded, “And that’s not even the worst of what she called me! She said  I was unnatural and that she refused to let people ‘like me’ enter this house.”

He glanced at you with furrowed brows, standing up. The maid took this as her time to speak.

“Well, this man was trying to convince me that you were dating him! And- And that’s just so wrong! Why would you stoop as low as to date a male when you are surrounded by beautiful women!”

Diluc’s eyes flashed to hers, unmistakable fury in his eyes. “What?” He said, scarily quiet. “What did you just say about him?” You stared at her with a pointed expression, urging her to realize that you were never lying and that her precious boss was, in fact, dating a male. “He is my boyfriend.”

The woman was gobsmacked. She looked between the two of you before her eyes widened in fear. “I- I didn’t mean-” She tried to reconcile.

Diluc took a step forward menacingly. He narrowed his eyes harshly. “I expect you have a very, very good apology to him.”

She was quiet before shaking her head. “I- I won’t apologize because I was right. It’s unnatural and, frankly, disgusting.”

You stared in pure shock as she said that, spitting at you after she finished speaking. Diluc grabbed her arm. You could see the smoke billowing off of her clothing.

“You are not welcome on this property. You’ll be lucky if anyone in Mondstadt allows you to enter their establishment.” Diluc said. “You deserve the worst of the world, and I will be delighted to begin.”

She stuttered and tried to pry her arm from him. “I- You’re hurting me!”

“Good.” Despite his words, he let her arm go harshly, turning and waving her off. “Get out of my sight. I shall hope to never see you again. If I do, I am not sure if I would be able to contain myself as I have done now.” She cradled her arm (which was barely touched, honestly) and rushed from the room. Diluc walked towards you, placing a hand on your cheek. It was still warm from the heat he had conducted.

He wordlessly scanned your eyes, which held a certain sense of conflict. “Are you alright, my dove?”

You frowned, nodding slowly, “Yeah, I’m okay. I just- I was not expecting that.” You leaned into his palm. “We’re natural, right? This isn’t against anyone’s greater plans?”

He raised an eyebrow, “And who’s greater plans would that be? Barbatos?” He chuckled, “As if he would care about two boys dating each other.” He spoke as if he knew the god himself, but you had to admit it sounded silly. “There is nothing unnatural about us, darling.” He whispered, leaning his forehead against yours. “Some people are just disrespectful and like to shove their noses in things that do not concern them in any way. They love to be angry when it has nothing to do with them.”

You nodded in agreement, laughing quietly. “Yeah. They do, don’t they?” He smiled softly, leaning in to kiss you gently. “I love you, Di.”

“I love you, my dove.”

Once again, you had gotten a letter from your jailed boyfriend. Once again, he found himself locked up and needing a bail. You shook your head with an amused sigh. You never knew how he continuously got in trouble for the silliest of things. Nonetheless, you grabbed your sack of mora and began to travel the distance to the Tenryou Commission.

Once you arrived at the doors, you stated your business. Despite a roll of the eyes, you were led into the waiting room. One of the guards came up to you and offered you a seat in front of his desk.

“Right, what are you here for?” He asked, giving a friendly smile despite the drab surroundings. “Do I need to get my reports ready to be filled out?” You laughed at his little joke to be polite. “No, no, I’m just here to pay a bail.”

He hummed, pulling out a folder. “Right, who for?”

“Arataki Itto.”

The guard coughed, hiding a scoff that you noticed. You tilted your head in confusion. “The oni?” You nodded with a blank face. This could go a few different ways. “Why are you here for him?”

You shrugged, “I ask myself the same thing sometimes.” You attempted to joke. The guard didn’t laugh. Rude, considering you had laughed at his lame attempt at a joke. “He’s my boyfriend. I always end up being the one to bail him out.”

You noticed the way the man rolled his eyes and watched with narrowed eyes as he closed the folder, leaning forward to rest his chin on one of his fists. “Boyfriend, eh? I thought you were a boy.”

“I am. But is that any of your concern?”

He raised his hands in mock surrender, “I suppose not, though you may want to listen to me.”

“And why is that?”

“Because maybe you’ll realize the path you’re going down is going to send you straight to hell.”

You blinked, glaring at him angrily, “Excuse me?”

“You heard me.” He replied calmly, flipping the folder open again and slowly going through each page. “Not only are you being a horny animal, you’re being a disgrace to Her Majesty the Shogun.”

You stared at him. You swore you could feel your eye twitching in pure unadulterated rage. “A horny animal? What is that supposed to mean?”

He rolled his eyes, “That’s all you type of people are. Horny creatures who do nothing but frolic with each other.” You leaned forward angrily and he scoffed, scrunching his face in disgust, “Don’t get any ideas. I would rather die than allow a man to kiss me.”

“I would rather kiss a hog than kiss you.” You retaliated, leaning back again, glaring at him as if he was a hog. “Go get my boyfriend. Let me pay his bail so I never have to see you again.”

He huffed, crossing his arms, “I don’t take orders from the likes of you.” You swore you would have jumped at him if another soldier hadn’t entered the room. She glanced between the two of you with a raised eyebrow.

“Ma’am, can you help me? This man here is being very very disrespectful to me.” You asked, shoving a snarky comment at the man.

She nodded, walking over, “Of course, sir, what seems to be the issue?” 

“I would like to pay the bail for my boyfriend, Arataki Itto.”

She hummed, “Alright.” She reached over and took the folder from the man, flipping through it. “The oni? You have your work cut out for you.” She laughed before grabbing a ringed set of keys from the man’s desk. “The bail is set at 15,000 mora.” 

Your eyes widened slightly at the price. What had Itto done this time? Regardless, you nodded, shuffling through your small coin sack to find the correct amount of mora. As you did, the male soldier spoke again.

“You just heard that he has a boyfriend and you’re cracking jokes with him?” He asked incredulously.

The woman shrugged, “Why not? There’s nothing different between him and anyone else in a relationship.”

“It’s unnatural.” 

She rolled her eyes, “So are your teeth, but you don’t see anyone complaining about that.”

You stifled a laugh as you passed her the mora. She nodded at you, turning to put it up before returning. “Alright, he’s in cell 232, come this way.”

You followed and the male soldier followed you, for some reason you couldn’t fathom. You soon found yourself standing outside Itto’s cell. You grinned at him and, once he heard the rattling of keys, he sat up with an even larger grin.

“Baby!” He yelled excitedly. The door swung open and he barreled towards you, slinging an arm around your shoulder. “I just knew you were gonna come and set me free. My knight in shining armor.” Itto teased.

Though he earned a warning look from his coworker, the male soldier scoffed loudly. Itto glanced over, questioningly. His eyes were slightly wide as he wondered what he did.

“Can you not be so gross in public?” He asked snobbily.

You nearly growled, “We barely even hugged. His arm is sitting on my shoulders and that is it.” Itto glanced between you two, slowly removing his arm. “Why do you care about our happiness so much?”

“It’s immoral and wrong and you are on the wrong side of everything.” He replied, crossing his arms and sticking up his nose. “Clearly, you need some sort of psych evaluation.”

Itto immediately stepped up, “Woah, woah, man, don’t go saying that about my boy.” He warned. 

His coworker grabbed his arm gently, “Stop being such a bad person.” She hissed, trying to pull him away. “You’re going to get suspended again.”

The soldier didn’t budge. He tore his arm from her grasp and stepped closer, raising a finger and pushing it into your face. “You are such a freak and-” Before he could finish his sentence, he screamed. Itto glared at him intensely as he turned the pointed finger upwards- a direction it should not have been pointing.

“Don’t talk to him like that.” He growled animalistically. The woman’s eyes widened and pushed her coworker out of the way, pushing him towards the exit of the cells. The man took the chance to run out of the hall of cells. She turned back.

“As much as he deserved it, you do know I have to arrest you, right?”

“Hah, yeah. Figured as much.” He laughed, quickly coming down from his earlier anger. He turned to you, noticing your wide, surprised eyes. “You alright?”

You nodded quickly, “yeah, I just- That was faster than it usually is to get you angry. What happened?”

His cheeks flushed a bit and he scratched the back of his neck, “Aha, uh, yeah, you mentioned how when you were younger you were bullied relentlessly for being queer, so I would not let some bastard talk to you like that.” He said casually, shrugging. “You know nothing he says even matters?” His eyes sparkled, “And I’m Arataki Itto! The one and Oni, so you have to trust what I say.”

You laughed, leaning over and kissing his cheek, “I know, silly. It just caught me off guard mostly. I’ve worked through a lot of the homophobic trauma regarding my early years.” He narrowed his eyes, staring at you before deeming you truthful and nodding. He turned and walked into the cell he was just released from.

“I’m all ready, chief.” He said, grinning at the guard as she locked him in again. “I’ll see you in a few days, baby! I love youuuu.” He sang as you walked off. You laughed, waving your hand in the air.

“Love you too, Itto.” You responded. You and the woman made your way outside of the hall and she held your arm for a moment.

“Are you willing to help me report him?” She asked, nodding to the man who was still holding his extremely broken finger as someone else accessed the damage. “I might be able to pull this off as self-defense.” She mentioned. “Mr Itto will still get in trouble simply because he’s an oni, but it’ll be less severe.”

You nodded, “Of course. That bastard needs to be suspended or even fired.” She smiled kindly, offering you a chair in front of the desk you were at earlier.

You grinned at your class as they slowly trickled into the room. “Morning!” You said chipperly. Some of the middle schoolers hummed in response, most not even acknowledging your greeting. It didn’t affect your mood, though. You were thrilled. Today was the day the kids would begin giving their group presentations.

The assignment was not too difficult, but it was a long one. In groups of four, the four students would work together to create their own version of a utopia. Transportation, housing, laws, repercussions, etc. were all to be decided as a group for the happiest and best world they could imagine. It was a little assignment you had learned about from a teacher on vacation that her class did after reading The Giver.

“Alright, class! So, you all should have finished your presentation boards on your utopia.” The class groaned, knowing what was coming. “Well, it seems you’re prepared.” YOu laughed. “Does anyone want to go first, or shall I spin the wheel?”

Everyone lit up slightly, “Spin the wheel!” You grinned, heading to a little wheel on the edge of your desk. You had already prepped it for today’s lesson. Everyone waited as you spun the wheel, watching the colours spin until it landed on a kid’s name.

“Hmm, alright, Marcus’ group, you’re up first.” You announced. Marcus and his three partners groaned but stood up and quickly prepared the presentation boards. You listened happily as he and his teammates discussed their perfect utopia until they reached the laws and repercussions board.

“Our most important law is no gay people.” Marcus stated, showing a picture of a pride flag with a huge red X on it. “If someone is gay, they are to be executed immediately.” You stared dumbfounded. None of the kids knew you were gay, but they knew you were at least an ally. Why would their utopia- their supposed perfect world- want to execute all gay people?

You were a bit distracted as they finished up. They called your name a few times before waving a hand in your face. You blinked. You swallowed and nodded with a fake smile. “That was great! Thank you so much.” You spun the wheel again and let the next group go.

You prayed that this time it would go differently, but it didn’t. Once again, at the laws and repercussions slide, there was a rainbow flag with a big red circle with a line through it. Each group had something similar. Your smile became more and more fake as each group presented their assignment. By the end of the day, you were holding back your despair. These kids that you treated as well as you could, these kids that you saw every single day and treated them the best that you could- they wished you were dead? 

Inadvertently, since they didn’t know. But it didn’t reassure you much.

When the day was over, you felt exhausted from hiding your true feelings. You were usually fairly open with the kids. You walked home as you normally did, ready to collapse into bed and curl into yourself. Maybe you’d cry, maybe you’d take a shower instead. Something to make you feel better.

To your relief (or perhaps disdain?), you entered your house to be met with your lovely boyfriend. Ajax stood with a grin, holding his arms out for you to hug him. You did so instantly, hurrying over to bury yourself in his scent. His comforting hug almost made you break and you could feel your despair tipping over the edge.

When he pulled back to peck your lips, he stopped with a frown, his brows furrowing. “Is something wrong, sólnyshka(Sunshine)?” He cupped your cheek with his hand.

You leaned into it, closing your eyes. Your thoughts had been ruminating for far too long and you felt horrible- both from the students and from your own mind running rampant. “Not really.” You admitted.

His eyes held sympathy, “Did something happen at school? Or was it just a long day?”

You were silent for a moment before the dam broke. Your tears filled your eyes and slipped down your cheeks. He caught a few of them with his thumb, concern filling his expression. “I just- Is it wrong to be happy?”

Ajax blinked in surprise, “What do you mean, my love?”

“Is it wrong to be happy with who you are and who you’re dating?”

He thought for a second before a darker look appeared on his face, “Did someone say something about us? About us both being boys?”

“Not directly.” You replied, sniffling. “Remember the assignment I was really excited to see finished today? The kids did their presentations today.” He nodded along, listening closely even though he was a bit confused as to how this pertained. “And every single one of them, Ajax. Every single group had one of their laws as no gay people. And that gay people would be put to death.”

His breath stopped for a moment before resuming, pulling you into his chest. He wanted to take away all of the pain and make the people who caused it suffer, but, in this situation, he couldn’t. “Darling, some kids are raised with the belief that other people shouldn’t be happy if it isn’t the same happiness that is normalized.” He said softly, stroking your hair. “I know it hurts a lot to hear them say that when you care about them so much, and I’m not sure if I can make it hurt less.” He pulled back a moment to place both hands on your shoulders. “But just know, I will always be here for you to talk to. You can talk about how hard it is being queer, you can talk about how you feel betrayed, you can talk to me about anything.”

You gave a wobbly smile, “Ajax… I don’t think you’ll ever know how much that means to me. I’m sorry I made our evening sad.”

His supportive smile fell into a small frown, “Sólnyshka, never apologize for being upset. Or for telling me that you’re upset. You are allowed to be upset and I want to be able to help you. It’s always you and me.” You stared at him for a moment before pulling him into another hug.

“Thank you.”

“You don’t have to thank me either.” Ajax hugged you tightly. “Now, come on, dinner’s done.”

As you pulled back from the hug to follow him into the kitchen, you raised an eyebrow, wiping the remnants of your tears, “You cooked?”

He gave you a goofy grin, “I wanted to surprise you and you mentioned before that you didn’t like going out on school nights because of the early mornings.” You could hardly believe you had such a genuine man to be your boyfriend. 

“I love you.”

He winked at you over his shoulder, his tell-tale grin on his face, “I know.” He laughed as you swatted at his shoulder, “Fine, fine. I love you.” He kissed the air in your direction as he plated the two meals.

[fabien-euskadi]

This is a very, very, very special place: the José Franco Museum-Village.

In the 1950s, a talented potter from the village of Sobreiro, José Franco (last two photos), decided, together with his wife, Helena, decided to create a scale-down version of a typical village from the rural areas of the Mafra County; this area in the northernmost part of the Lisbon Metropolitan Area is commonly known as the Zona Saloia - "Yokel Zone", in English. José Franco (1920-2009) feared that the memory of the rural world he once knew as a child could be lost, and being so, he created a mix of theme park and museum where the visitors can experience a romanticized version of the Yokel Zone as it was a century ago or so.

Everything in this place is magic, from the small stores and houses to the mock-ups of the rural villages of yesterday. It's impossible not to feel like a child again when you enter the school, the tinsmith's workshop, the winery, the windmill...

[100beep]

Solace in a Hopleless Place

“Gorou.”

His name snaps him out of his shock-induced haze. “Yes?”

“The charges are treason, conspiracy to commit high treason, participation in a banned terrorist group, and four counts of manslaughter. How do you plead?”'

As was previously planned, he says “Guilty.”

The judge says “You are hereby exiled from Inazuma. Leave before sunset tomorrow and return on pain of death.” Then she bangs her gavel.

The rest of the trials pass in the same haze. Every important member of the Resistance is there, plus any common soldier that didn’t manage to escape. The leadership is given the same sentence of exile, while the soldiers are let off relatively easy, their only punishment being a few years of hard labor rebuilding the Tenshukaku.

He’s halfway to Dornman Port when he shakes off the last of the shock from the disastrously failed assassination attempt. It was an all-or-nothing bet, he knew, but he didn’t think he’d properly understood what failure truly meant until it happened.

He arrives in Dornman Port in the early afternoon two days after the trial and decides to make the trek to Mondstadt the same day. Unfortunately, it’s longer than he reckoned on, and it’s nearly midnight when he arrives.

Upon arrival in Mondstadt, he explains his situation to one of the Knights at the gate. Visitors are apparently not supposed to enter the city after dark. As he’s arguing with the guard, who seemingly wants to let him in but can’t, a wandering bard comes from the inside, winks at the guard, and pulls Gorou inside. And then drags him off to a tavern to tell his story properly.

Once he’s done the first telling of his story, the bartender asks “What exactly went wrong with your plan?”

“They had a spy,” Gorou almost growls. “They knew we were coming, they knew our every move. And it’s really damn hard to touch the Shogun if she knows you’re there.”

“There are few things that can derail a plan worse than a traitor within your ranks,” the bartender says, as if speaking from experience.

“Did you ever catch whoever did it?” asks one of the tavern’s other patrons - one who’s extremely drunk.

“Of course not! The entire Resistance disintegrated after we failed. We never got the chance.”

“What do you plan to do from here?” asks the bartender, heading off Gorou before he can get any more riled up.

“I have no idea,” answers Gorou. “I’m only here because the first boat I could get on was coming here.”

The bartender nods. “I suppose you need somewhere to stay for the night?”

“I could use one,” Gorou admits.

“I can help with that,” says the bartender. “The tavern’s full, but Barbatos knows I’ve got enough spare rooms for you. Which is probably why he brought you here.”

Someone calls across the room. “Diluc! Not just any stray you take in can replace me!”

The bartender - Diluc, apparently - glares across the room at the shouter, then says “Ignore him. He’s my… was my… it’s complicated.”

Gorou nods. “I won’t ask. But why is it you’re willing to take me in so quickly?”

Diluc sighs. “I’ve had my share of failed assassination attempts.” He doesn’t elaborate.

Later - Gorou thinks it’s about half past one in the morning - Diluc announces last call. A loud chorus of groans follows, and the tavern slowly empties, the last few people being chivvied out by Diluc after fifteen minutes or so.

Leaving the city is a lot easier than entering it. Diluc just nods at the guards and opens a postern gate. Apparently Diluc comes around this late at night regularly.

They walk mostly in silence for about fifteen minutes before Diluc points out the winery mansion.

“You weren’t joking about having a lot of spare rooms,” Gorou says, mildly surprised.

Diluc flushes slightly. “Lucky birth.”

Once he’s shown Gorou to one of the spare rooms, he says “Let one of the maids know if you need anything” and leaves Gorou to collapse on the bed for his first proper sleep since the trial.

Gorou wakes up around noon the next day. He rolls out of bed and does his best to tidy up the room. It’s not like he’d made much of a mess, or that Diluc needs it, given that he has maids, but it’s the principle. He makes his way downstairs and is greeted by one of Diluc’s maids, who seems quite happy for a chance to stop mopping.

“You’re Gorou?” she asks.

He nods.

“I’ve been wondering when you’d show up. Diluc’s out in town - I don’t know what he’s doing. There’s breakfast waiting for you in the dining room… although you should call it lunch.”

Gorou thanks the maid, then calls her back to ask where the dining room is.

In the dining room, he uncovers what amounts to a pile of steak, potato, and cheese, stacked up. There’s a note next to it, from Diluc, which he reads as he eats. He’d spent so long being insanely busy with the Resistance that he’s used to such multitasking.

It’s fairly concise, as Gorou would expect from Diluc. As Gorou was told by the maid, Diluc’s in the city and invites Gorou to join him. He doesn’t say what he’s doing, just that he can’t be missed. He says that Gorou is welcome to stay as long as he needs to, as he’s a person that won’t take advantage of another’s kindness. And he mentions that he’d made the meal and used his Vision to keep it warm. At first, Gorou does a double-take at his ready admission that he has a Vision before remembering that it’s only in Inazuma that they’re banned.

Once he leaves the mansion, he returns to the city, mostly so he can find work. Diluc is entirely right that he doesn’t want to stay for free if he can avoid it.

“Katheryne? What are you doing here?” he exclaims, seeing her at her kiosk at the entrance to the city. She never leaves her desk in Inazuma.

“I have always been here,” she replies.

“What about the Katheryne in Inazuma?” he asks.

“Information on the workings of myself through Teyvat is limited to Adventurer’s Guild members,” she responds as if she’s giving a canned response. “And unfortunately for such a promising young adventurer such as yourself, we do not accept new adventurers during Mondstadt’s harvest season. Even those we previously tried to recruit.”

Gorou shakes his head in confusion. He’d been previously recruited by Katheryne in Inazuma, which means that they’re the same person or they somehow share memories…

He abandons that line of thought. He won’t be able to get any answers out of an uncooperative Katheryne. Instead, he asks “What stops you from hiring during the harvest?”

“Mostly tradition,” answers Katheryne. "The farmers of Mondstadt need as many workers as they can get during the planting and harvest seasons.”

Gorou’s eyes narrow. Adventuring is rather useless if you can’t feed the city, but he wouldn’t expect the Guild to bother with that. He doesn’t pursue it though - again, Katheryne won’t talk about anything that doesn’t suit her. “Can you point me to any of those farmers that are hiring?” he asks instead, not expecting an answer but thinking it’s a better chance and more useful than anything else he can ask.

Katheryne answers nonetheless. “Dawn Winery is currently in the midst of their semiannual hiring spree. In fact, Master Ragnvindr is currently in town for that purpose. He’s in the main square - just go up, you can hardly miss him.”

“Thanks,” Gorou says as he turns and walks up the main stairs of the city. As he climbs, he mutters to himself “So that’s what he meant by ‘can’t be missed.’” Whatever he was expecting, it wasn’t that.

Ten minutes later, a slightly out of breath Gorou makes it to the main square of Mondstadt. The disadvantage of building your city into the side of a hill is that it makes it somewhat more difficult to get around. To his immediate left is a sign advertising for the Good Hunter. Underneath that sign is another sign advertising for work at Dawn Winery. There’s a small crowd - thirty people or so - mostly waiting around for their chance for Diluc to take their name. Gorou takes a seat and waits for Diluc to work through the rest of the crowd.

“Next,” calls a bored-looking Diluc as the current person leaves, looking somewhat annoyed. Someone else walks up to his table and starts talking - for some reason, no one else can hear them.

“How do you know who’s next?” Gorou asks the person sitting next to him.

“Whoever gets up first, mostly” is the answer. “They always hire everyone they can, it’s not like there’s much competition.” Gorou nods.

A moment later, he asks “Are you that Inazuman revolutionary that appeared at Angel’s Share yesterday?”

Gorou blinks in surprise. “That would be me. Why?”

“Is it true that you took the first shot at the Shogun?”

“I’m a… was a general, not an assassin.”

The man nods. After a moment, he asks “Did you take any shots at the Shogun?”

“It’s rather useless to try once she knows we’re there. She can grab arrows out of the air,” Gorou grumbles. “Didn’t stop me from trying, but most of my arrows went to her soldiers.”

Diluc calls “Next,” and Gorou answers the call.

“I thought I’d see you here,” Diluc says. “I suppose the Guild sent you here?”

Gorou nods. “What is your arrangement with the Guild?”

“The Knights mandated it after one year when the entire workforce quit to join the Guild,” Diluc responds. “When neither they nor the owners would back down on their wage demands, the city nearly starved. And despite Barbatos’s calls for a revolution - or so they say - the Knights stepped in and stopped the Guild from hiring anyone new during the harvest.” He shakes his head as though to get rid of an unpleasant memory. “But enough of ancient history. You’re here for work. I assume you’re more interested in actual harvesting rather than the administrative work?”

Gorou agrees. “Tracking supplies and the like was the worst part of the Resistance.”

Diluc holds back a sigh. “Very well.” He briefs Gorou on pay - which is surprisingly generous - duties, hours, and such - long hours this year because of an early winter and limited demand for ice wine - then ends with “You start tomorrow in the vineyard at half past eight.” Then he calls “Next.”

The next three weeks are extremely busy for Gorou. He’s busy the entire day in the vineyard, after which he has little energy for anything else. He’s told that it isn’t normally this busy except after the freeze, but this year’s freeze will be sooner than normal.

Little time for anything else also includes finding another place to live. As convenient as it is to not have to walk into the city every night, now that he has work, he’d like to avoid living on charity.

Gorou and Diluc eat together almost every night, mostly in silence as both of them are too tired for small talk. Most nights, Diluc cooks, which Gorou is almost more grateful for than the room. About twice a week, he’ll get too wrapped up in papers to remember, and twice he falls asleep in those papers, in which case Gorou sighs and throws together dinner for the two of them. And on the one occasion where Diluc goes missing for two days straight - he’s told that it happens occasionally, it’s nothing to worry about - he’ll cook for himself. He’s not a bad cook, he just doesn’t enjoy it much, nor does he have the energy to.

(When asked why he doesn’t let the maids cook, Diluc laughs. He doesn’t trust them to not burn down the house, he says, and it’s far too hard to find a half-decent chef for hire.)

Three days in a row go by when the morning starts with a frost. There’s no effect on the harvest, other than a lot more workers bringing gloves.

The next morning, Gorou wakes up to a howling blizzard. He gets out of bed, noting that the house is somehow warmer than normal, and walks to the kitchen, where he finds Diluc with a cup of coffee.

Diluc greets him, then points out the window. “That is Barbatos thinking he’s being funny.”

Gorou blinks. “Barbatos does things like that?”

Diluc scoffs. “Only to me. I’m convinced that if you could get out of here, you’d see the storm is entirely contained in the vineyard. Shows what I get for asking for a cold snap.”

“Why would you want a cold snap?” Gorou asks.

“An experiment with ice wine,” Diluc answers. “I’m told that if you freeze the grapes before harvesting, it concentrates the juice, which makes for far sweeter wine.”

“And you couldn’t get a Cryo user to freeze them for you?” Gorou asks. “I’d think that would be easier than getting a god to change your weather.”

Diluc sighs. “You underestimate how pliable Barbatos can be. And even if he wasn’t, I have a talent for driving off Cryo Vision holders. Diona hates the entire wine industry. I’d have no chance at convincing Rosaria to take on any additional work, and she’s not leaving the Church anytime soon. Eula hates me for some reason, which she’s passed on to Mika, and Kaeya is… well, he’s Kaeya.”

Gorou nods. He briefly considers asking about Kaeya - he’s heard stories - but decides against it. “It would probably make a better wine from a natural freeze anyways,” he says instead.

“Perhaps,” replies Diluc. “Whatever the case, it’s not going to happen, as convenient as it may be. Are you cold?”

Gorou blinks at the sudden change of topic. “No - I don’t understand it, but I’m actually warmer than before,” he answers.

Diluc nods. “That would be my Vision. I wasn’t sure if it was affecting the entire house - normally, I only bother to keep myself warm. Surprisingly, it’s not that much more effort.”

“Increasing area-of-effect somehow doesn’t increase the power needed,” Gorou replies. “Unless you’re doing something with a lot of precision.”

“I wonder why,” asks Diluc, not expecting an answer. Gorou doesn’t give one - he doesn’t know either.

After a moment’s silence, Diluc says “Well, this day’s going to be completely useless for the both of us. We won’t be able to get out through that storm, either to town or to harvest and I can’t work in the cold - Vision heating is too distracting.”

“I’ll appreciate the day off,” Gorou replies. “Your harvests are rather exhausting.”

“I have been working you rather hard,” Diluc admits. “But winter would be here early regardless of what Barbatos did, and I’m not banking everything on an experiment. Thanks to your work, we only have a day’s worth of harvest or so left.”

“I’m not complaining,” Gorou answers quickly, “but I do need a break.”

The rest of the day is spent mostly quietly. Neither of the maids show up through the storm, which leaves Diluc and Gorou alone together the entire day. They talk more than they have ever since the first night when Gorou showed up in Mondstadt, mostly for lack of anything else to do. Diluc is very interested in the details of the Resistance to the point where Gorou almost suspects him of trying to create his own revolt.

When asked why he’s so interested, Diluc answers “I also had my time as a rebel. My motivations were far more selfish than yours - entirely revenge, to be honest.” And then they’re on to talking about Diluc’s misadventures in Snezhnaya.

“…I managed to actually land a hit on Dottore,” Diluc finishes. “To this day, that’s the closest I’ve come to revenge.”

Gorou nods along. From his one-time dealings with the Fatui, they’re not worth it to work with. Still, he has to ask: “What caused you to go on such a quest for revenge in the first place?”

Diluc grimaces. He doesn’t want the details publicized, but he can tell Gorou is trustworthy. He tells Gorou as much, then begins with the disappearing children. The only part of the story he leaves out is his messy breakup and disownment of Kaeya.

The next morning dawns cold and clear… in the sky, at least. The ground, less so. There’s about a foot of snow on the ground, ending right at the boundary of the vineyard and confirming Diluc’s theory of the localized storm.

The crowd gets to work. They know where the remaining unpicked grapevines are and, almost more importantly, where the already-picked vines are to dump the snow.

About half an hour in, Gorou asks Diluc - who, for the meantime, is working with the other pickers - if he can use his Vision to melt the snow.

“I doubt that I can control it enough to not thaw the grapes,” Diluc answers. “And thawed grapes are completely useless.”

“I might be able to shield them,” Gorou answers. “At least enough to clear the paths.”

Diluc raises an eyebrow. “Care to demonstrate?”

Gorou digs through the snow to the ground, then pulls off a glove and touches the ground. A thin wall of earth erupts through the snow, then curves over the tops of the grapevines.

“Impressive control,” says Diluc. Then he sends a wave of flame down the path, causing a massive cloud of steam and almost entirely clearing the path of snow.

The wall shatters as Gorou releases control over it. Underneath it, the snow covering the grapes remains mostly intact. The top had slightly melted and then refrozen into a somewhat solid chunk of ice, which Diluc picks up and throws onto a pile of waste snow. The grapes underneath are still frozen solid.

Diluc nods in approval and the two move through the vineyard repeating the process. It takes about an hour - there isn’t much vineyard left unharvested, but making such barriers is fairly exhausting for Gorou.

Once they’re done clearing the paths, Diluc leaves to begin the wine processing. This will continue through the night, with only Diluc and a few backup workers, pressing all the grapes before the weather has a chance to warm up.

Diluc comes in at half past four in the morning. He’s not as tired as you’d expect - he does have experience working through the night. But he still collapses on his bed the first chance he gets.

The next night, the entire collection of harvesters is invited to Angel’s Share for a night of free drinks. There’s enough of them to fill the bar, and regardless, it’s closed to everyone else - except that one bard that brought Gorou here when he first arrived.

Diluc, who for tonight is on the other side of the bar, sees the bard and shakes his head at him. Venti, of course, doesn’t leave and instead takes a seat next to Diluc.

“Was the cold snap to your liking?” he asks.

Diluc sighs. “Well, I can’t say it didn’t work.”

“Whatever did the two of you do cooped up together?”

Diluc blushes furiously. “We talked.” Then he looks around for Gorou, who is, thankfully, on the other side of the room and apparently not listening.

Venti laughs. “Oh, I didn’t mean to imply anything… inappropriate. It seems your mind went there all on its own.”

“You knew exactly what you were doing,” Diluc says, face still red.

“Perhaps,” answers Venti. “Although if I did, I’d imagine that it would work better.” Then he walks away, to where Gorou is in a rather heated argument with a few others on how, exactly, a Pyro arrow flies without lighting the entire arrow on fire.

“It doesn’t have time to burn,” Venti interrupts. “Any fool with more arrows than sense can try it, you don’t even need a Vision.”

“Thank you!” someone exclaims to Gorou. “If I wasn’t drunk, I’d show you - you don’t need a Pyro vision, I’ve done it before!”

Gorou throws up his hands. “Fine!”

Venti laughs, then drags off Gorou. “Tell me, what went on during that snowstorm?”

“Very little,” Gorou answers. “I needed a rest, Diluc kept me far too busy. And it’s not like there’s much to do trapped inside by a storm.”

“Oh, I’m sure you could’ve come up with something,” Venti answers. Then he walks away, leaving a very confused Gorou.

Later in the night, Charles announces “Last call,” to an even louder chorus of groans - no one likes the end of free drinks. The trickle out starts with Diluc, as he’d been almost the only one paying attention to the time. Gorou follows soon after - he’d stopped drinking about an hour ago to avoid a hangover.

They walk in silence, as Gorou would expect from Diluc, but this time it feels somewhat more awkward. Eventually, Gorou asks “What exactly did that bard say to you?”

Diluc blushes again, mutters something about “meddling gods,” and doesn’t answer the question.

“I see,” Gorou replies.

“What exactly do you think you see?” Diluc says. “You like someone, but you don’t want to admit it to yourself,” Gorou answers.

“I have no feelings for you, despite what that damned bard might say,” Diluc grumbles.

Gorou stops walking. “It’s me you like?”

Diluc freezes. “That is not what I meant to say.”

Gorou takes a breath and says “But what you wanted to say, I think.”

Diluc tries to deny it as he starts walking again. Gorou says “I like you too,” and Diluc stops again. Then he turns to kiss Gorou.

Gorou hesitates half a second before kissing back.

When they break the kiss, Diluc is smiling for the first time Gorou’s seen.

[brettgilbreath]

Three Incredible African Safari Destinations

Africa is a famous vacation spot, with millions of tourists visiting the continent yearly to go on safari, a word in Swahili meaning trip. Visitors who go on safari have the opportunity to see a wide variety of wild animals in their natural habitat. Among the many safari destinations, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa are considered to be the best places to experience the beauty and splendor of the African wilderness.

For good reason, Kenya has long been regarded as the birthplace of the safari. It is home to the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve, which gives tourists the chance to see the "Big Five" (elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros, lion, and leopard) and other wildlife including giraffes, hippos, and hyenas in one location. The Mara's diverse topography, from expansive savannahs to green riverine forests, provides the perfect backdrop for wildlife observation and photography.

The best time to go on safari in Kenya is during the dry season, which runs from July to October. This is when the spectacular Great Migration takes place, with over 1.5 million zebras, gazelles, and wildebeest moving from Tanzania's Serengeti National Park to Kenya's Maasai Mara in search of greener pasture. To reach the Maasai Mara during the Great Migration—which is recognized as one of the world's new wonders—the animals have to swim across the Mara River, which is packed with crocodiles, and sadly, many of them do not make it through the crossing. Predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards that lurk in the Maasai Mara still pose a threat to those animals that survive the Mara River crossing. Every year, thousands of visitors travel to Kenya and its neighbor Tanzania to witness the Great Migration.

Between July and October, travelers to Tanzania can also be a part of the Great Migration at the popular Serengeti National Park, which rivals Kenya's Maasai Mara in terms of natural beauty and wildlife. Tanzania is also home to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage that hosts thousands of wild animals, including a large population of lions, elephants, wildebeest, and rhinos, making it one of the most densely populated wildlife areas in the world.

Another must-see destination in Tanzania is Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest peak. While not a traditional safari location, the iconic mountain adds to Tanzania's allure, offering opportunities for trekking and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Travelers interested in a more cultural experience can also interact with the Maasai people, a nomadic tribe living in Tanzania and Kenya who have rich traditions and a strong bond with the land and wildlife.

In South Africa, a well-liked safari attraction is Kruger National Park. This park is one of Africa's largest wildlife sanctuaries, spanning around 20,000 square kilometers. More than 500 bird species and 147 mammal species call it home, and many of the Big Five animals can also be spotted by visitors at Kruger National Park. The ideal time to go on safari at Kruger is also during South Africa's dry season, from April to October. At this time, animals congregate around waterholes and are easier to find because of the scant vegetation.

South Africa provides opportunities to visit wineries, seaside towns, and historical places like Nelson Mandela's jail cell at Robben Island, Cape Town, for people who want to mix a safari with other pursuits.

[ravenspeakrp]

As the masquerade draws to a close and the citizens of Raven's Peak make their way home, they may notice that the fog that had previously been blanketing the town has slowly begun to recede from the streets. In the days and weeks that follow, the town seems to return back to business as usual as the cooler fall weather rolls in. The trees are turning orange and red, dotting the sidewalks with crunchy fallen leaves. But don't wander too far into the Stygian Woods, for a lantern seemingly lost within the darkness may lead you astray.

Halloween is approaching, and Raven's Peak is never short of things to do! Make some time to visit the Raven's Peak fire hall where their annual haunted house has been set and ready for visitors, if you dare. Enchanted Crumbs bakery is advertising a slew of seasonal treats, including apple and pumpkin pastries galore! Stop by for delightful experience for your taste buds! Not to mention Witches Brew is in it's prime with whimsical and spooky beverages that just might be a little more than meets the eye. The White Willow Winery and Vineyard is open for apple picking in their apple orchard and visiting their pumpkin patch to find your perfect pumpkin! Also, the Witches Market will be open in town square for the next several weekends, so stop by to pick up some protection amulets, a few potions, and other trinkets, or put up your own booth to help your fellow citizens of Raven's Peak with your wares!

If you're dressing up, don't forget to sign up for the costume contest that will be held in front of Town Hall on the 31st, just before trick or treating begins! The winner of the contest will earn themselves a special prize.

Out of Character Information

While the Midnight Mirage Masquerade has come to an end, there isn't a lack of things to do around Raven's Peak! Feel free to use any of these suggestions to help shape your threads for fall and Halloween.

Note that while the fog in town has mysteriously cleared, mischief is still afoot as fae settle in amongst the townsfolk. If you're considering bringing in a new character, perhaps give some thought to adding to the fae population!

Additionally, if your character is interested in participating in the Raven's Peak annual costume contest, please post your character's costume with the tag #ravenshalloween! On October 31st we will put out a poll for members to choose their favorite costume(s)!

[amazingarchitecturewebsite]

Walker Warner Architects designs Quintessa Estate Winery Pavilions, #NapaValley, California Read more: Link in bio! Photography: Matthew Millman @matthewmillmanphoto. Walker Warner Architects: The pavilions are a series of independent 250-square-foot structures, each of the three pavilions is designed to provide an immersive, privately hosted wine-tasting experience in the landscape. As modest additions to an established 280-acre winery estate in Napa Valley, each pavilion reflects the founder’s desire for architecture that will harmonize with the natural surroundings of the property. Accordingly, each pavilion is carefully sited to protect visitors from the elements while also preserving the existing mature oak trees. The result is a unique wine-tasting experience that can be utilized year-round during weather extremes… #usa #california #архитектура www.amazingarchitecture.com ✔ A collection of the best contemporary architecture to inspire you. #design #architecture #amazingarchitecture #architect #arquitectura #luxury #realestate #life #cute #architettura #interiordesign #photooftheday #love #travel #construction #furniture #instagood #fashion #beautiful #archilovers #home #house ‎#amazing #picoftheday #architecturephotography ‎#معماری (at Napa Valley Wine Country) https://www.instagram.com/p/CmzT9WkLzKG/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[traipseartist]

July 4th - 7th - Yokum's Right of Seneca Rocks, West Virginia

I claim to be a Rock Climber™ but the majority of my experience is actually clinging to plastic rocks inside of blissfully air-conditioned warehouses in the part of town that's definitely getting gentrified.

I discovered I liked to climb at a time in my life when I was desperate to find something athletic that didn't make me want to walk into the sea. My body image after high school was in shambles and I developed a certain hatred for treadmills and ellipticals--symbols of punishment for over-indulgence or a demand I adhere to some kind of standard that I never really could buy all the way into. Needless to say, exercise was always a means to an end. If I could have put my brain in a jar and made my legs run the necessary number of miles to make me a size 0, I would have. Gleefully. Surely athleticism was mastering the ability to fully disconnect your body from your brain? Who wanted to be present for the heaving and the sweating and the oh-god-oh-god-this-is-how-I-die feeling that hangs in the balance?

Then I had a long-distance boyfriend who fell headlong into the sport and in my soft loneliness, I connected to him via chalk-coated climbing facilities. We would chatter on the phone about climbing problems, the world of outdoor climbing, competitions, characters at our respective gyms. When his life drifted away from mine, I stayed close to the wall. I felt not just the urge to be stronger and solve more difficult problems, but the desire to start speaking my body's language instead of pulling out the duct tape every time I needed to push through something that felt physically hard.

-------------------------------

So, yes yes, a beautiful back story. An illustrative origin that does nothing to explain why I'm clenching a stubborn half-sapling between my thighs and trying to keep all of my pistachio shells in my hat as I dangle my ankles thousands of feet above the valley floor in Seneca Rocks, West Virginia.

My partner Vincent and I are out with the Explorer's Club of Pittsburgh (some 20+ riotous humans with a distaste for a particular kind of self-preservation) on this fine holiday weekend when we agree to do something relatively stupid and exactly what we came for. We want to stand on the top of the biggest piece of exposed Tuscarora Quartz in the north east and shake in our boots while doing it even though we're mostly little indoor-monkey gym-rats.

Seneca Rocks, West Virginia is not like other climbing destinations. Some crags, especially those on the west coast that attract climbers from around the world, have their own sprawling ecosystems born of their touristic revenue. Joshua Tree has the strangest assortment of desert-proof fast-food establishments. Yosemite and the Sonora Pass have many of the trappings of a mountain get away: Adorable high streets in small boom towns scattered throughout the region, themed restaurants, condos and vacation homes stacked high and wide for visitors and returning locals alike. Something (wineries and theme parks and tucked away spas) for the person who has no desire to really disconnect from society, thank you very much.

Seneca Rocks, West Virginia has:

Yokum's Vacationland - a truly grandiose title for a double-wide cabin that feels like a themed gas station with a root-beer stand tacked on the back and some motel rooms up top. All the same, totally beloved.

Harper's Old Country Store - honestly, much cuter than Yokum's but probably less trafficked unless Yokum's runs out of ice or chocolate milk

Princess Snowbird's Indian Village & Campgrounds - not touching this one. It's been here for a second. It has RV hook-ups and could not be more American in nature.

The Gendarme - your local spot for outdoor guides, good advice, and the climbing gear you forgot.

There are campgrounds (Seneca Shadows) up the hill from Yokum's, and a little science center filled with dusty art-deco furniture across the way. All of this within the cast shade of the mountain you came for, and that is that.

The end.

Yet, despite the almost video game-esque limited nature of this local map, Seneca Rocks is obviously its own ticking entity. There are people who live here. The pepperoni rolls for sale in color coded zip-block bags (RED - Pepperoni and Mozzarella, BLUE - Mozzarella only, GREEN - EXTRA Pepperoni and Mozzarella) deposited in big wicker baskets by the cash register at Yokum's are made by a woman named Betsy. The local guides that cart litters of injured recreationalists down from the mountain are no NPCs.

So when you're teetering on routes with names like "Muscle Beach" and "Ecstasy Jr." that drape the mountain high above our tiny valley below, it's hard to feel that same uncaring maw of the great wilderness that I've felt so many times before when I've been playing with my own safety for fun and un-profit far from the sympathy of other humans.

Still, when a rope strains on a carefully placed nut in the crevices of Whorl's Thicket or you see some cotton slings tangled in the branches of a marooned tree under Traffic Jam, you are reminded that your survival--that any human's survival on this little quartz dinosaur spike--is purely by permission and tolerance only. There is no conquering here; there is only playing on the shoulders of a giant. It's reckless, even though it is surely allowed and time-tested.

I learned very quickly that the people I was climbing amongst, however, did not always have a passion for the reckless nature that is the hobby. Some of them had the exact opposite problem with their bodies and their minds that I found I had. They did not wish to separate their mind from their body so that they could push through the soul-crushing boredom of exerting physical labor without feeling much reward or time passing. Instead, they wished to sever the connection so that they could overcome the crippling fear of hanging on the edge, of being too frightened to progress--something I enjoy playing with, fiercely.

-----------------------------

At the summit of Seneca, there is a small metal lockbox the size you'd see keep cash in a concession stand on the perimeter of a high school Softball field. This box is full of notes, little plastic figurines, found treasure, a cow bell, a whistle. Well wishes, banal little messages for those behind or in front that may find themselves up here soon and again.

At base camp, there is a loose huddle of chairs around a dimming campfire and the air of survival from something we chose. Another day on the rock, another meal to remember the day we didn't fall off of it. Someone mentions a plaque affixed to a large boulder along the path up to the crag, seen just before the turn off to a torturous route upward to some other famous trad classics named "Stairmaster." It's a commemoration to a woman who was part of the Explorer's Club of Pittsburgh. She stepped backwards off of a steep step-around route on the mountain and fell to her death a week before her wedding in the early 2000s.

Someone says they wish they hadn't named her specifically on the plaque--it made the club look careless. Untrained.

There is a long pause before someone else says that her fiance wanted to bury her in her wedding dress. I put my mind back into my body, and my body back into my tent, and I am thankful to sleep on a solid, flat surface yet again.

[housetobuynearme]

7 Best Hotels In Napa, CA

When visiting Napa, CA, consider these top hotel picks: Napa Valley Lodge offers a tranquil retreat with cozy rooms and complimentary wine tastings. The Meritage Resort And Spa provides luxury amidst vineyards, with upscale amenities and a unique underground spa. Napa Winery Inn exudes charm with personalized service and a convenient location. SENZA Hotel beckons with plush rooms, an outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection is a top luxury choice with modern rooms and an award-winning spa. The Knoll Hotel Napa Valley and Archer Hotel Napa promise unforgettable stays. Get ready for an unforgettable Napa experience.

Napa Valley Lodge

Napa Valley Lodge offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of California's wine country. Nestled among vineyards and rolling hills, the lodge provides a peaceful escape for visitors looking to unwind and explore the beauty of Napa Valley. The cozy rooms feature comfortable furnishings and modern amenities, ensuring a relaxing stay for guests.

One of the highlights of Napa Valley Lodge is the beautiful outdoor area, complete with a heated pool and hot tub. It's the perfect spot to soak up the sunshine and enjoy a glass of local wine. The lodge also offers complimentary wine tasting events, allowing guests to sample a variety of wines from nearby wineries.

In addition to its serene atmosphere, Napa Valley Lodge is conveniently located near top attractions such as wineries, restaurants, and hiking trails. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a weekend of wine tasting with friends, this charming lodge provides the ideal home base for exploring all that Napa Valley has to offer.

The Meritage Resort And Spa

Nestled amidst the lush vineyards of California's renowned wine region, The Meritage Resort And Spa offers a luxurious escape for travelers seeking relaxation and indulgence. Boasting a blend of upscale amenities and picturesque surroundings, this resort caters to guests looking to unwind in style. The spacious and elegantly appointed rooms provide a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring the nearby wineries.

One of the highlights of The Meritage Resort And Spa is its underground spa, Spa Terra, where guests can indulge in a variety of rejuvenating treatments. The resort also features multiple dining options, including its signature restaurant Siena, serving delectable dishes paired with local wines.

For those looking to stay active during their getaway, the resort offers a fitness center, pools, and even a bowling alley. Additionally, the resort's proximity to various vineyards makes it a convenient choice for wine enthusiasts looking to explore Napa Valley's renowned wine scene. With its luxurious accommodations and top-notch facilities, The Meritage Resort And Spa provides a memorable stay in the heart of wine country.

Napa Winery Inn

With its charming ambiance and proximity to local vineyards, the Napa Winery Inn beckons guests seeking a quaint retreat in the heart of California's wine country. The inn offers a cozy and intimate setting that makes visitors feel right at home. The rooms are tastefully decorated, providing a comfortable space to relax after a day of wine tasting and exploring the picturesque surroundings.

One of the highlights of staying at the Napa Winery Inn is the personalized service provided by the attentive staff. From offering recommendations for nearby wineries to ensuring that guests have everything they need for a pleasant stay, the staff goes above and beyond to make visitors feel welcome.

In addition to its inviting atmosphere, the inn boasts a convenient location near some of Napa Valley's most renowned wineries. Guests can easily explore the vineyards, sample exquisite wines, and soak in the beauty of the rolling hills that define this iconic wine region.

SENZA Hotel

Located just a short drive away from downtown Napa, SENZA Hotel offers a luxurious retreat amidst the vineyards of California's wine country. The hotel boasts modern and elegant rooms with amenities like plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, and espresso machines. Guests can unwind in the outdoor pool, surrounded by picturesque views of the vineyards, or relax in the hot tub after a day of wine tasting. SENZA Hotel provides a complimentary breakfast each morning, featuring fresh local ingredients to start the day off right.

For those looking to explore the surrounding area, the hotel offers bike rentals to cruise through the scenic vineyard paths or visit nearby wineries. The attentive staff is knowledgeable about the best local wineries and can help guests plan their wine tasting adventures. SENZA Hotel's serene ambiance and personalized service make it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a tranquil and upscale experience in Napa Valley.

Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection

One of the top luxury accommodations in Napa, CA is Solage, part of the esteemed Auberge Resorts Collection. Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, Solage offers a unique blend of relaxation and sophistication. The resort boasts modern, spacious rooms with chic decor and luxurious amenities.

Guests can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments at the award-winning Spa Solage, known for its healing thermal waters and innovative wellness programs. The on-site Michelin-starred restaurant, Solbar, serves up delectable farm-to-table cuisine paired with an extensive selection of local wines.

Solage provides a range of activities for guests to enjoy, including biking through vineyards, relaxing by the pool, or participating in fitness classes. The resort's attentive staff ensures that every guest's needs are met, creating a memorable and personalized experience.

Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a wine tasting adventure, or simply a tranquil retreat, Solage at Auberge Resorts Collection offers a luxurious escape in the heart of Napa Valley.

The Knoll Hotel Napa Valley, Tapestry By Hilton

Nestled in the stunning Napa Valley, The Knoll Hotel offers a charming getaway experience as part of the Tapestry By Hilton collection. The hotel's picturesque surroundings and elegant design make it a top choice for travelers seeking a luxurious yet cozy retreat in the heart of wine country.

With spacious rooms and suites that boast modern amenities and tasteful decor, The Knoll Hotel provides a tranquil oasis for guests looking to unwind and indulge in the beauty of Napa Valley. The on-site restaurant serves delectable dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, providing a true taste of the region's culinary delights.

Guests can also enjoy the hotel's outdoor pool, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the California sunshine, or explore the nearby vineyards and wineries that make Napa Valley famous. The Knoll Hotel's attentive staff are dedicated to ensuring a memorable stay for every guest, making it a standout choice for those seeking a refined and unforgettable Napa Valley experience.

Archer Hotel Napa

With its modern amenities and stylish design, Archer Hotel Napa offers a sophisticated retreat in the heart of Napa Valley. The hotel's chic rooms are elegantly furnished and feature luxurious touches like plush bedding and sleek bathrooms. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel welcome, providing top-notch service and recommendations for exploring the local area.

One of the highlights of our stay at Archer Hotel Napa was the rooftop bar, which offers stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. We enjoyed sipping on handcrafted cocktails while watching the sunset, creating a truly memorable experience. Additionally, the hotel's central location made it easy for us to visit nearby wineries, restaurants, and shops.

About Sell Quick California, LLC

Sell Quick California, LLC is your go-to house buying service in the heart of Napa, California. Specializing in facilitating swift and effortless transactions, our company caters to homeowners looking to sell their properties without the usual hassles associated with traditional sales. At Sell Quick California, we pride ourselves on our commitment to transparency and integrity. We make the process as straightforward as possible by offering no-obligation cash proposals, ensuring you receive the best value without the need for any repairs. Our deep understanding of the California Napa Valley buy house market enables us to guarantee fast closings, tailored to fit your specific timeline, making it an ideal solution for anyone looking to sell quickly. Whether you are a seasoned seller or a first-time homebuyer, our team is just a call away, ready to provide seamless service that meets your real estate needs with efficiency and reliability. Trust Sell Quick California, LLC for a stress-free property selling experience where your convenience is our top priority.

Contact us

Sell Quick California, LLC 1648 Tallac St, Napa, CA 94558, United States (707) 307-5554 https://www.google.com/maps?cid=15080355270405531959

[valpoupdates]

MAY CALENDAR POSTING...

So much to see, so much to do, so little time ! Lucky for you, here in the Valparaíso Region, we keep track of it just for you ! Unless stated otherwise, these activities are optional. Residents do not have to take part in these if they don't wish to ! These can be used for threads throughout the month but new threads can't be started for these activities once the month is up. Please track the valpocalendar tag to stay updated month to month ( ©️ )

Casablanca Activities

May 4: To celebrate the 4th, Aire Libre will be showing the original Star Wars trilogy—no, the original original Star Wars trilogy, the one that premiered in Chile in 2003! As the broadcasting company didn’t want to cut to commercial breaks, they instead stitched the commercials into the scenes and started something absolutely legendary.  Spanish subtitles will be provided, and guests are encouraged to come dressed!  Merchandise will be sold of the edited scenes, from magnets to t-shirts to blankets.

6 PM: Episode IV: A New Hope 8:30 PM: Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back 11 PM: Episode VI: Return of the Jedi

May 10: Inherited Escapes will be hosting their own AAPI event!  They’ve invited Asian Chilean authors as well as authors of AAPI descent to be part of an author panel and book signing.  Come meet some amazing local authors, come give a big greeting to our international authors, and come spend an afternoon surrounded by people who love to write and love to read. The event will be from 6 PM - 8:30 PM.  Snacks and beverages will be provided; the last thirty minutes will be for book signings (only books bought from Inherited Escapes will be signed).

May 11-12: As fall is ending, Isidora will be selling last season’s products at a discounted price this entire weekend to prepare their inventory for the upcoming season and for the winter time storage.  If you buy any of their products, they’ll also be offering free tours of their winery!

May 17: As the days and nights get cooler, Quintay is seeing an uptick in visitors for fly fishing.  Veteran fisherman and very important scientists have predicted that this particular Friday will be a great time to fish, so Quintay invites families to come and learn how to fly fish from 4PM - 8 PM!  For a small price, kids can borrow fishing gear and life jackets, and get hands-on experience on how to use an artificial lure to catch some dinner.  Post-8 PM, adults can stay and fly fish further.

Quilpué Activities

May 2: To celebrate International Sibling Day, Plantas Altas will be offering a BOGO 50% off from 11 AM - 2 PM! If you ever need an excuse to buy more plants, or if you need a reason to buy a gift for a sibling you love to hate and hate to love, Plantas Altas has you covered with pots, leafy greens, dangling beauties, and all the cute accessories you could want.

May 3: International Supernatural Day is upon us, and no one loves the Supernatural more than the people at Los Fantasmas.  For an out of season night, the team at Los Fantasmas has come up with a spooktacular night.  From 8 PM - 2 AM, they will be hosting a small Macabre Market where the vendors will be selling eerie, unsettling, and just plain scary merchandise.  Two new drinks have been added to the menu for this night: the Cóctel Zombi and El Beso de la Muerte. There’s even rumors of the appearance of a famous but reclusive ghost hunter—but you’ll have to come and find out for yourself!

May 5: Are you the best at Smashbros?  Maybe you’re just the big fish in your little pond.  Casa Dragones is offering you the chance to truly find out!  Test your mettle against other Smashbros players in a Smashbros Tournament!  There is a small entry fee and a portion of it goes to the cash prize pool; winner takes it all, and something maybe even more important: Bragging Rights!  The tournament will be from 2 PM - 6 PM.  Snacks and beverages will be provided, but you are encouraged to purchase snacks from the counter and support your local nerd space.  Please register online at www.lacasadedragones.cl.

May 18: It’s time to shine for one of Caos Tattoos very own: Abril Valdivia!  The Tattoo Apprentice will be having a flash sale of her own designs for a discounted price.  Come support a local up-and-coming artist!  You can still make appointments and receive flash from the resident tattoo artists there. May 25: Quilpué Zoo invites friends and family to meet their new friend, Otto the Octopus!  Otto is a smart, clever, playful, and silly boy.  He loves squirting water at the Quilpué Zoo workers; he loves solving puzzles; and he loves being handled by the zoo employees!  From 10 AM - 2 PM, the event (¡Bienvenido A Casa, Otto¡) will allow kids to see Otto solve puzzles and do tricks; they’ll see a feeding session; and they’ll also learn about octopuses and their habitats!

Valparaíso Activities

May 16: Valparaíso Centro Médico is celebrating the backbone of the hospital: the nurses!  During this time, participating restaurants and stores will be offering nurses discounts in their stores and restaurants.  Check your email for an emailed list of participating locations; all that’s required is to show your hospital badge.  At the hospital itself, expect decorations throughout, a gift basket, a catered meal, as well as a bonus effective this paycheck.  Thank you for your hard work!

May 19: Art thee int'rest'd in loveth?  In hurt?  in what it means to beest a human on this Earth?  Doth thee loveth plays and the arts?  Well, the Shakespeare in the Parketh team shall beest p'rf'rming various scenes f'r free in the Parque Cultural de Valparaíso from 12 PM - 3 PM.  Bringeth a blanket, a snack, and a cousin and enjoyeth the showeth!  T’is family friendly and BYOB, but thee shall beest hath asked to leaveth if 't be true thou art being disruptive.

May 21: The Writer’s Org will be hosting a writing workshop at Biblioteca Santiago Severín from 5 PM - 7 PM.  There are no entry fees and no club fees.  Non/fiction writers can bring 1-2 pieces up to 1500 words total; poets and flash fiction writers will be allowed 3 pieces. 

May 28: Valparaíso Centro Médico is having a Blood Donation Day from 7 AM - 9 PM.  Come save a life and get a t-shirt and hydroflask as thanks!  No registration, signups, or appointments needed.  Walk in whenever you’re free and do your part to help your neighbors in need!

Viña del Mar Activities

May 4: To celebrate International Bird Day, the Bird Watching Org will spend time in the Parque Nacional La Campana from 6 AM - 10 AM to play Bird Bingo.  First person to identify all the birds or get Bingo will get a pack of bird stickers!  You are welcome to bring food and drinks, but try not to bring anything too noisy, and keep in mind that you’ll be carrying all your trash until we make it to a trashcan.

May 12: The Casino de Viña Del Mar would love to celebrate Mother’s Day with you!  From 11 AM - 11 PM, there will be a special Mother’s Day buffet for guests to enjoy.  A raffle will also be done, and 3 winners will be picked to enjoy an all expense-paid trip to Havana, Cuba!

May 24-27: Member Point Event—more details to come!

[ego-856]

Bulgaria: Where Nature and History Converge

Bulgaria, located in Central Europe, is a country adorned with magnificent natural beauty and rich history. With its diverse landscapes and historical treasures, Bulgaria offers visitors an unforgettable experience.

Natural Wonders

Bulgaria is home to a variety of natural wonders including mountains, rivers, forests, and beaches. The Rila and Pirin mountains offer stunning scenery and host hiking trails and winter sports opportunities. The Rhodope Mountains are famous for their unique cave systems and natural wildlife. Bulgaria's coastline along the Black Sea is a perfect choice for those seeking relaxation in the calm waters.

Historical Riches

Bulgaria's history dates back thousands of years and bears traces of many civilizations. The capital city, Sofia, is filled with historical landmarks showcasing influences from different cultures such as the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The city of Veliko Tarnovo is famous for its medieval fortresses built on steep cliffs, playing a significant role during the Middle Ages. Additionally, ancient Thracian ruins scattered across Bulgaria offer visitors fascinating insights into the past.

Cultural Treasures

Bulgaria boasts a unique culture, known for its traditional music, dance, and cuisine. The country's traditional dances and colorful costumes provide visitors with unforgettable performances. Bulgarian cuisine delights with delicious mezes, kebabs, and desserts. Bulgarian wines are renowned worldwide, and the country is dotted with various wineries offering tastings and tours.

Conclusion

Bulgaria is like a treasure waiting to be discovered, with its natural beauty, historical riches, and vibrant culture. Visitors will be enchanted by the magnificent landscapes and captivated by the charm of historical sites and cultural heritage. Bulgaria offers an unforgettable travel experience for everyone and stands as one of the most beautiful and intriguing countries in Europe.

[booktaxiinmelbourne]

Convenient Mornington Peninsula Taxi Services

Looking for reliable transportation on the Mornington Peninsula? Our taxi services have you covered! Whether you're heading to the beach, exploring wineries, or simply need a ride to your accommodation, our professional drivers are at your service.

With our Mornington Peninsula taxi service, you can expect prompt pickups and comfortable rides to your destination. We prioritize your convenience and safety, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience for our passengers.

Exploring the stunning landscapes and attractions of the Mornington Peninsula has never been easier. Our taxis are equipped to accommodate individuals, couples, families, and groups, offering flexible options to suit your travel needs.

Forget the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads or dealing with parking woes. Our experienced drivers know the ins and outs of the peninsula, ensuring efficient routes and timely arrivals to your desired destinations.

Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, our taxi services offer seamless transportation solutions for all occasions. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Mornington Peninsula without worrying about transportation logistics.

Next time you need a reliable ride, remember our Mornington Peninsula taxi service for a comfortable and convenient journey. Book your ride today and experience the ease of travel with us!

[mounttowrongvineyard]

Sipping Perfection: Mount Towrong Winery — A Gem in Macedon Ranges, Australia

The Idyllic Setting:

Mount Towrong Winery is strategically located amidst the undulating hills and lush vineyards of Macedon Ranges. The serene atmosphere and cool climate provide the ideal conditions for cultivating high-quality grapes. Visitors are treated to sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, making it an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The vineyard’s commitment to sustainable practices further enhances its appeal, creating an eco-friendly haven for both wine lovers and nature enthusiasts.

A Rich History:

Founded in 1994, Mount Towrong Winery has a rich history deeply intertwined with the evolution of winemaking in the Macedon Ranges. The winery’s founders, George and Deirdre, were visionaries who recognized the region’s potential for producing exceptional cool-climate wines. Their dedication and passion laid the foundation for what is now considered the premier winery in the area.

The Terroir Advantage:

Mount Towrong Winery’s success is attributed to its unique terroir, characterized by cool temperatures, diverse soil types, and optimal elevation. These factors contribute to the distinctive flavors and aromas present in their wines. The vineyard carefully selects grape varieties that thrive in these conditions, resulting in a diverse range of wines that showcase the best of the Macedon Ranges terroir.

Signature Wines:

Awards and Recognition:

The accolades bestowed upon Mount Towrong Winery underscore its commitment to excellence. The winery has garnered numerous awards for its outstanding vintages, solidifying its status as a leader in Macedon Ranges’ winemaking. The dedication to quality and innovation is evident in every bottle, making Mount Towrong a name synonymous with exceptional wine.

Visit and Experience:

For those looking to experience the magic of Mount Towrong Winery firsthand, a visit to the cellar door is a must. The welcoming ambiance, coupled with knowledgeable staff, ensures a memorable tasting experience. Additionally, the winery often hosts events, including vineyard tours, blending sessions, and seasonal celebrations, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the winemaking process.

Conclusion:

Mount Towrong Winery stands tall as the epitome of winemaking excellence in the Macedon Ranges. Its captivating setting, rich history, and exceptional wines make it a destination that transcends the ordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, a visit to Mount Towrong promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Australian winemaking perfection.

[journaljotz]

Best Secret Stays in California for a Hidden Getaway

California is known for its stunning beaches, world-class wineries, and bustling cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. However, beyond the well-known destinations, the Golden State is also home to a wealth of hidden gems that offer unique and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat in nature, a charming boutique hotel, or an off-the-beaten-path escape, California has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best secret stays in California that offer the perfect blend of privacy, luxury, and tranquility.

1. The Integratron – Landers

Tucked away in the vast Mojave Desert, The Integratron is not your average vacation rental. This iconic structure, known for its unique architectural design and acoustic properties, is the perfect place for those seeking a tranquil, off-the-grid retreat. Originally built as a rejuvenation machine, the Integratron is now a popular destination for sound baths and wellness retreats. Guests can book a stay at the adjacent vintage trailer park and enjoy peaceful nights under the stars, with the added bonus of participating in rejuvenating sound bath sessions.

Why it’s a secret stay: The Integratron’s remote location and one-of-a-kind offerings make it an ideal destination for travelers looking for peace, quiet, and spiritual rejuvenation away from the crowds.

What to do: Participate in a sound bath, explore the Mojave Desert, or simply relax and meditate in the serene environment.

2. Post Ranch Inn – Big Sur

Big Sur is known for its breathtaking coastal views, and Post Ranch Inn offers one of the most exclusive and luxurious experiences in this stunning region. Nestled along the cliffs of the Pacific Ocean, this eco-friendly boutique hotel features individually designed rooms that blend seamlessly with nature. With incredible views of the ocean and mountains, you can relax in a private, cliff-side cabin or a tree house perched high above the forest floor.

Why it’s a secret stay: While Big Sur attracts many visitors, Post Ranch Inn remains an exclusive hideaway, often reserved for those in the know. Its remote location and emphasis on seclusion make it an ideal escape for couples or anyone in need of a peaceful retreat.

What to do: Hike along the rugged coastline, visit the nearby Bixby Creek Bridge, or indulge in spa treatments while overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

3. The Madonna Inn – San Luis Obispo

While the Madonna Inn isn’t exactly a secret, it’s often overlooked by those who are unfamiliar with its quirky charm. Located in San Luis Obispo, the Madonna Inn is a kitschy, retro-style hotel known for its over-the-top, themed rooms. Each of the 110 rooms is uniquely decorated, ranging from a rock waterfall suite to an opulent room with a pink and gold color scheme. The inn also features a famous bakery and a delightful restaurant, making it a perfect spot for those looking to stay somewhere truly unique.

Why it’s a secret stay: The Madonna Inn flies under the radar for many travelers, but its eccentric atmosphere and cozy ambiance make it a fun and memorable stay for those in the know.

What to do: Enjoy a meal at the Inn’s restaurant, explore downtown San Luis Obispo, or take a short drive to nearby wineries in Paso Robles.

4. Glen Oaks Big Sur – Big Sur

For those looking for a more rustic, yet still luxurious, retreat, Glen Oaks Big Sur is a hidden gem that blends comfort with natural beauty. This boutique hotel features stylish cabins nestled in the forest, offering a cozy, peaceful experience with modern amenities. The historic adobe motor lodge was originally built in the 1950s and has been beautifully renovated to create a perfect blend of old-world charm and contemporary design.

Why it’s a secret stay: While Big Sur is a popular destination, Glen Oaks Big Sur offers a more intimate and understated experience compared to the more well-known resorts in the area. Its location in the heart of Big Sur means you’ll be close to nature but still enjoy top-notch accommodations.

What to do: Go on a hike in the nearby Ventana Wilderness, visit McWay Falls, or take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway.

5. The Shelter Social Club – Desert Hot Springs

For a true hidden oasis, consider booking a stay at The Shelter Social Club in Desert Hot Springs. This chic, minimalist boutique hotel is set in a quiet desert landscape, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With a focus on wellness and relaxation, The Shelter offers a variety of spa services, a saltwater pool, and serene outdoor spaces. The boutique hotel’s design embraces mid-century modern aesthetics, making it an Instagram-worthy location that offers both luxury and comfort.

Why it’s a secret stay: Desert Hot Springs may not be on the average tourist’s radar, but this hidden gem offers an intimate and quiet getaway with the added benefit of hot spring pools that are known for their healing properties.

What to do: Relax in the hot spring pools, enjoy the minimalist décor, or visit nearby Joshua Tree National Park for a stunning day hike.

6. Alisal Ranch – Solvang

Located in the charming town of Solvang, Alisal Ranch offers a peaceful and authentic Western getaway in the heart of Santa Barbara wine country. This secluded ranch offers a mix of luxury and outdoor adventure, with horseback riding, golfing, and spa treatments all available on-site. The ranch is also home to gourmet dining options that feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients, making it a perfect destination for food lovers who enjoy a bit of rustic charm.

Why it’s a secret stay: While Solvang is known for its Danish-inspired architecture, Alisal Ranch is a lesser-known treasure. The secluded location and range of outdoor activities make it an ideal spot for those looking to experience the natural beauty of California in a quiet, intimate setting.

What to do: Go horseback riding through the rolling hills, visit nearby wine tasting rooms, or simply unwind at the ranch’s spa.

7. The Wildflower Inn – Mendocino

Located on the rugged Northern California coast, The Wildflower Inn in Mendocino is a peaceful bed-and-breakfast-style inn that offers a relaxing retreat in a stunning location. With panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and beautiful gardens surrounding the property, this charming inn is perfect for anyone seeking peace and quiet. Guests can enjoy a homemade breakfast each morning before heading out to explore the Mendocino Headlands State Park, just minutes away.

Why it’s a secret stay: Mendocino is a quiet, off-the-beaten-path town, and The Wildflower Inn offers a truly secluded and intimate experience. The inn’s location, combined with its personal touch and intimate vibe, make it a great option for couples or solo travelers.

What to do: Take a scenic walk along the Mendocino coast, explore the quaint town of Mendocino, or visit nearby wine country in Anderson Valley.

8. Treebones Resort – Big Sur

If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in a yurt with stunning ocean views, Treebones Resort is the perfect place to make that dream come true. Located along the Pacific coastline in Big Sur, this eco-friendly resort offers a unique experience in harmony with nature. The yurts are spacious, comfortable, and equipped with everything you need for a relaxing stay. For a more luxurious option, you can also book a stay in one of their “human nests,” which provide an incredible view of the ocean and an experience unlike any other.

Why it’s a secret stay: While Big Sur attracts many tourists, Treebones Resort offers a more intimate and unique lodging experience. Its location in a secluded part of Big Sur ensures that you’ll have plenty of space to relax and unwind.

What to do: Hike the nearby trails, relax in the resort’s hot tubs, or enjoy a sunset dinner at the resort’s restaurant overlooking the ocean.

Conclusion

California is full of secret stays that provide the perfect escape from the ordinary. From the tranquil desert retreats to luxurious cliff-side resorts, these hidden gems offer unique experiences that will make your next getaway unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, California has a hidden gem waiting for you to discover. So, why not plan your next vacation to one of these off-the-beaten-path destinations and experience California like never before?

[pulsdmedia]

The Week Ahead 11/18-11/24

It might be too early to dust off the Christmas cheer, but we can't help ourselves. There's hot cocoa flowing, festive events happening, and cozy delights just waiting for you to cuddle up & experience. Why not get the fun started? Do you, New York City!

$35 Ticket: 3.5 Hours 100+ Wines, Waterfront Views, Foods, & More

This weekend, sip in bliss as you revel in peak autumnal vibes at The 2024 Jersey City Wine Festival! Just steps from the waterfront, immerse yourself in this stunning escape with unrivaled views of the city. Games and live music will level up the energy as you and your crew make your way through a staggering array of sips. Each bottle has been curated to showcase exquisite wines, featuring revered labels like City Moonlight Wine, Life Vine, Meadowdale Winery, Enovation Brands, and more. As you bite into eats like Angry Archie's Lobster Rolls the golden hues of the sunset reflect off the Freedom Tower and the skyline transforms into a masterpiece, raise a glass...

A Special Holiday Pop-up With Free Treats & Hot Cocoa!

This limited-time shop is the perfect destination for both local New Yorkers and visitors alike to shop Kiehl’s limited-edition gift sets and holiday must-haves. Enjoy gifts with purchase, gift wrapping, and free black and white cookies and hot chocolate!

$79 Purple Soirée: Open Bar, Food, Entertainment, & More

Upstairs NYC is a non-profit dedicated to fostering connections, creativity, and learning. The Purple Soirée embodies the spirit of Upstairs NYC, acting as a celebration that blends creative expression with social buzz. Kick off the night with an exclusive open bar, where you’ll be treated to premium cocktails that will have you feeling plum-tastic in no time. Laura Giannini's electric violin sounds will fill the air as you chow down on exquisite hors d'oeuvres such as purple sushi, and purple ube cake by Keki. Add into the mix the chance to network, a fabulous photo booth, and a chic vibe with a purple twist - you simply can't miss it!

Lands’ End NYC Pop-Up: Personalize the Canvas Pocket Tote

The Lands’ End Crosby Street Market will offer shoppers customization options they can’t get anywhere else at the “personalization concept shop.” The ten-day pop-up will offer on-site embroidery, hand painting, a curated assortment of vintage patches + more.

$29 VIP Salsa On The Roof Tickets: Open Bar, Salsa Lessons, & More

Spice up your weekend with Fiesta Friday vibes at Elsie Rooftop's Salsa On The Roof Open Bar Party! Starting at 8:00pm, enjoy an evening of dancing, with a 1-hour salsa lesson to teach you the basics and help you perfect your moves. You’ll also get access to an open bar, serving cocktails, wines, and beers to fuel the fun. As the stars twinkle above, Grupo Tahona will play live salsa jams to keep you moving. You can take in the fresh air on the terrace or cuddle up indoors, so whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a first-timer, it’s the perfect way to kick off the weekend with a bang - olé!

The Laundress Sample Sale

The Laundress combines expert-crafted fabric care with bespoke, perfumer-crafted fine fragrances for elevated care of your most treasured clothes. From everyday T-shirts and denim to beloved silk, discover solutions that keep your wardrobe looking and smelling its best, and make taking care of it feel like an act of self-care.