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A Heavenly Retreat

The name Kilolani, meaning "to look up to the heavens and reach out," perfectly encapsulates the ethos of this sanctuary for the body, mind, and soul as well as the resort's genuine commitment to nurturing and preserving Hawaiian culture and reverence for the land. As I entered the spa, I was immediately struck by its design, seamlessly blending modern luxury with traditional Hawaiian elements. From the soothing sounds of flowing water to the fragrant aroma of indigenous flowers, every detail was well-curated to create a space that transcends the ordinary and invites guests to embark on a profound journey of self-discovery and renewal.

I began my journey with the Kilolani signature massage, a technique deeply rooted in ancient healing practices. As skilled hands worked their magic, I felt tension melt away from my muscles, leaving me in a state of blissful relaxation. The rhythmic movements and gentle pressure of the massage not only eased physical aches and pains but also seemed to soothe my soul, transporting me to a place of profound peace and serenity. Next, I indulged in a series of hydrotherapy treatments, including a luxurious soak in a thermal mineral pool and a refreshing dip in a cold plunge. As I shifted between the soothing warmth and invigorating coolness of the waters (there were also several cold showers and a cold bucket) I felt a sense of purification wash over me, cleansing both body and mind of toxins and negativity.

Throughout my time at the Kilolani Spa, I was struck by the genuine passion and dedication of the staff, who went above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of my experience was nothing short of perfect. From personalized wellness consultations to thoughtful touches like fresh fruit and herbal teas, their attention to detail truly set the spa apart from previous experiences.

As I reluctantly bid farewell to the Kilolani Spa and the idyllic paradise of Hotel Grand Wailea, I carried with me not only memories of an unforgettable experience but also a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity. In a world filled with stress and uncertainty, places like Kilolani Spa serve as sanctuaries of healing and hope, reminding us to always look up to the heavens and reach out for the beauty and wonder that surrounds us.

Culture

Vans Skate and Anthony Van Engelen: AVE 2.0 Release & Gallery Tour in LA

Marking a special moment in their twenty-year-long relationship, the AVE 2.0 is Van Engelen’s latest signature shoe. Commemorating the release, Vans presented the inaugural installment of its “Commitment to Progression” gallery tour with an archival AVE exhibition and talk with Catherine Acosta (Vans Chief Archivist and Historian) and Neal Shoemakers (Director of Design, Vans Skate), followed by a Vans Skate team demo, and an open-call, cash-for-tricks session at the brand's DTLA flagship.

AVE, Catherine Acosta (Vans Chief Archivist and Historian), and Neal Shoemakers (Director of Design, Vans Skate

The "Commitment to Progression" tour will land in Shanghai and Seoul later this year.

Check out scenes from the cash-for-tricks session that closed out the night below.

Culture

Moss Grows In Midtown

At the club’s inaugural salon in their interim Midtown space (a 59th floor penthouse, no less) supporters and friends of the club gathered for a panel discussion with designer and researcher Mindy Seu, in conversation with culinary artist and producer Angel Dimayuga. The conversation floated between topics grounded in love and relationships, Seu’s latest work, “Cyberfeminism Index”, and humorous explanations of the menu that guests received throughout the panel.

Sipping on “Reverse Aging” cocktails (algae and coconut fat-based), attendees sampled earthy mochis bathed in broth, a grassy custard mixture seductively dolloped into a curved glass (meant for licking off), and strewn-high piles of radishes and leafy greens on a grazing table.

Moss’s permanent location will open at 520 Fifth Avenue in 2025, a five-story clubhouse that promises a cocktail of intrigue and unexpected flavor.