By Sharon Dastur

2012 was such an incredible year for music… from the return of the Boy Band… to the flood of new artists from the UK… and of course our favorite superstars continuing to give us more huge hits! So, what do we have to look forward to kicking off 2013? Some more amazing music from the heavyweights, new artists that have a little something different to bring to the table, and some artists we haven't heard from in a while. Let's get started...

By Narbeh Minassian

As many of you will no doubt be aware of, air travel has long-since become much more than just getting from A to B. In the modern era of travelling, the holiday begins once you board the plane. Many airlines are now adopting a policy of hospitality and high quality personal service to ensure that the excitement begins at the gate.

By Christopher A. Pape

Truth be told, I’m not a beach guy. I don’t have the right body type and to schlep here or there for some sand and sun doesn’t seem appealing; being around European history and culture is my idea of a great time. But, after a stressful 2012, I knew I had to get away from civilization and relax in pure beach beauty.

By Travelin’ Gal Maxine Albert

PARIS:
Swathed in wintry finest and accessorized in holiday glam, Paris looks even more beautiful in winter. There’s the scenic Seine, Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysees, great food, fine wine and The Louvre. What news to hear that a second Louvre was to grace France. I came for the December opening of the Louvre in Lens and wanted to explore the less traveled North Pais de Calais, where Lens is located. What I found was a region rich in history and culture with superb cuisine, which may be France’s best kept secret.

By Narbeh Minassian

One of the most dreaded situations for all parents is that first separation from their child. Whether it is the first day at school, the first sleepover, or the first summer camp, parents and children alike can struggle and find it difficult to cope. However, this problem can be overcome with the right preparation.

By Christopher A. Pape

What makes a star, a star? Speak with Robert Cuccioli and you’ll find out. Gracious. Talented. Urbane. These are just a few of the words that describes the popular Tony-nominated Broadway actor, who now can be seen in the hit musical, SPIDER-MAN, TURN OFF THE DARK.

By Christopher A. Pape

The business of antiques and ‘treasure hunting’ is huge. Joseph Maddalena, CEO and founder of the famed auction house ‘Profiles in History’ and star of Hollywood Treasures, on the Syfy channel, is the leading expert on finding and preserving treasures of the big screen. From Dorothy’s ruby slippers to Kate Winslet’s dress in the Titanic, he is the master at hunting down these rare objects.

BY TRAVELIN’ GAL MAXINE ALBERT

MADRID:

Tapas, flamenco and reveling till the wee hours in those cool Madrid bars, no wonder everyone takes a siesta in the afternoon. The fabulous nightlife is just one reason to be enthralled with this happening and sophisticated city. There’s the extraordinary Prado Museum where you can get up close and personal with Spanish Masters – Velazquez, El Greco and those wondrous Black Paintings of Goya.

By Narbeh Minassian

Il Salviatino is a hotel of delightful contradictions. Its very location combines two worlds into one, with a rural surrounding so tranquil and so green yet with the buzzing urban energy of Downtown Florence just a fifteen minute cab ride away. While the building may look like a contemporary hotel, it is actually a hand-restored 15th century villa; offering all the luxury and grandeur of a modern boutique but also all the timeless charm and atmosphere of an antique villa.

By Narbeh Minassian

As you will have already seen just a few pages to the left, the Salviatino collection of hotels has a philosophy that marries the legend of the past with the beauty of the present. The Palazzo Victoria in Verona, Italy is no different. Theirs is not just a hotel; but a museum with traditional artwork, décor, and even the building is north of two hundred years old. All in all, The Palazzo Victoria offers a first-hand and altogether unique experience of a city that champions one of the most unmistakable and richest cultures in the world.