While there is no actual cure for the common cold, there’s plenty you can do to ease your symptoms. Before you reach for that cold medicine, however, the best remedy might simply be soup—specifically, chicken noodle soup.

One dietitian explains exactly how chicken soup can help fight colds: “Studies have shown that a hearty bowl of chicken noodle soup may help clear nasal congestion and ease cold symptoms,” said Sandy Allonen, a clinical dietitian at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. “It’s all about the ingredients.”

Besides the obvious nutritional benefits of carrots, celery, and even onions and chicken, chicken noodle soup has some other healthy tricks up its sleeve. As Allonen explains, the warm broth can soothe a sore throat and provide hydration, the steam can help clear your nose, the salt can stimulate your tastebuds (encouraging you to eat more even when food tastes bland), and even the chicken can help.

“Chicken is high in tryptophan, which helps your body produce serotonin that can enhance your mood and give you the feeling of ‘comfort’ that helps make chicken noodle soup a true comfort food,” Allonen said. With all the bugs going around these days, it’s time to put the soup on.

If 2022 isn’t a year for some major revenge travel action, we don’t know what is. New hotels and all-inclusive resorts are popping up both stateside and internationally in 2022 and we cannot wait! There’s a new resort near Walt Disney World, some awesome glamping spots and even new family-friendly resorts as far as Australia for those who really need to get away. Many offer refundable booking options so there’s no reason not to get a trip on the books!

U.S. Destinations

The Virginian Lodge

The Virginian Lodge | Jackson, WY
Situated in the charming town of Jackson, home to some of the most epic skiing in North America, The Virginian Lodge is the ideal basecamp to access the world-class outdoor recreation in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park. The 165 all-new, mid-century style guestrooms and suites feature warm wood accents and campy, retro furnishings creating spaces that are authentically western and efficient for the modern adventurer. 

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Canopy by Hilton Boston Downtown | Boston, MA
Canopy by Hilton Boston Downtown will open in the heart of Boston’s historic Haymarket—America’s oldest outdoor market—in early 2022. Guests can enjoy scenic views of Boston’s Greenway and North End from their balconies and grab burgers at the hotel’s restaurant. The hotel is also within walking distance to the historic Freedom Trail, a must-do for many visitors.

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Conrad Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA
Conrad Los Angeles will be a new addition to downtown Los Angeles, which is seeing one of the largest development booms in nearly a century. Located in the city’s cultural hub with access to some of the most prominent arts and entertainment venues in the city, the 28-story luxury hotel will offer spacious accommodations featuring a bold and contemporary design, a world-class spa, California-inspired culinary experiences, a rooftop terrace and private pool deck with views of downtown LA.

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Embassy Suites Nashville Downtown Convention Center | Nashville, TN
Embassy Suites Nashville Downtown Convention Center will open in the heart of downtown Nashville adjacent to Music City Center and next to Bridgestone Arena, making this all-suite hotel a perfect home base for those exploring downtown Nashville. Popular tourist stops like Fifth and Broadway, Nashville’s newest dining and shopping, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Ryman Auditorium and Lower Broadway’s entertainment district are a short walk away. 

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Hotel Marcel New Haven, Tapestry Collection by Hilton | New Haven, CT
Talk about going green. Hotel Marcel New Haven, Tapestry Collection by Hilton will open in 2022 as the country’s first Passive-House certified hotel and first net-zero energy hotel. The hotel will generate 100% of its own electricity, powering its 165 guest rooms and suites, an American restaurant and bar, solar parking canopies and more.

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Tru by Hilton/Home2 Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown | Minneapolis, MN
This reimagined dual-brand property connects to the Skyway and is just three blocks from Minneapolis’ riverfront parks. For the sports aficionado, Vikings and Twins games are both within a mile. 

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Sensei Porcupine Creek | Rancho Mirage, CA
As Sensei’s second retreat and first United States mainland retreat, Sensei Porcupine Creek will convert a 230-acre private estate into an ultra-luxury wellbeing experience. The tranquil and intimate setting will feature a small number of hotel rooms in the former estate house, as well as private villas clustered throughout the luxurious property. The retreat features a state-of-the-art diagnostic center, yoga and fitness pavilions, a relaxing swimming pool and the culinary delight of Sensei by Nobu. 

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The Line Hotel | San Francisco, CA
The 236-room hotel will be home to four distinct dining experiences including a landscaped rooftop solarium which will enjoy panoramic views of the City. The 12-story Flat Iron-inspired building is a contemporary interpretation of the area’s historic architecture. The project also includes 242 residences and a dedicated space for the local non-profit theater company, Magic Theater.

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Albert Hotel | Fredericksburg, TX
This new property in the Hill Country hot spot of Fredericksburg will celebrate the legacy of noted local architect, historic preservationist and man-about-town Albert Keidel. The project, led by Austin-based New Waterloo, includes the renovation of the Keidel Family home, built in 1860; the Brockmann-Kiehne House, built in 1870, Keidel Pharmacy, built in 1906; and White Elephant Saloon, built in 1888. Upon completion, the 110-room boutique hotel located on Fredericksburg’s historic and charming Main Street will feature four distinct food and beverage concepts, an on-site spa, shaded lawns and courtyards connecting to event space and a sunken limestone pool and lounge.

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The Hythe, Luxury Collection Resort | Vail, CO
The Hythe, Luxury Collection Resort, Vail, a brand-new luxury resort concept in the heart of the Rocky Mountains is set to debut this winter 2021. Guests of The Hythe will enjoy elevated interiors to include a vivacious and welcoming arrival and lobby experience, four brand new food and beverage concepts, exclusive mountain forward excursions and much more. The Hythe’s entirely transformed interiors will offer respite and intrigue for sun-kissed and windswept explorers. 

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Caribe Royale Resort | Orlando, FL 
After an extensive, multi-million dollar renovation, the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando will debut a completely reimagined luxury travel experience for families, couples and groups—all just 1.5 miles away from Walt Disney World. Come 2022, guests will be able to check in to brand new 1-bedroom suites or 2-bedroom villas (large enough to accommodate six people plus pets!) for an epic Orlando getaway. Offering shuttle service to Walt Disney World and Disney Springs, guests staying at Caribe Royale Resort will also be able to enjoy an array of leisure and family-friendly experiences right on-site, including lounging—or splashing—by the property’s main pool (featuring a 75-foot waterslide).

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The Pridwin Hotel and Cottages | Shelter Island, NY
Cape Resorts announces its newest hospitality project in Eastern Long Island with the acquisition of The Pridwin Hotel and Cottages on Shelter Island, NY. The project is a partnership with the Petry family, which has owned and operated the hotel since 1961. Currently undergoing an extensive renovation, the waterfront hotel and its 16 private cottages are scheduled to open the summer of 2022. Nestled on 7+ acres of Shelter Island’s Crescent Beach overlooking the Shelter Island Sound, the 49-room luxury destination resort will feature several exclusive amenities and facilities, including private beach and pool services, a full-service spa, a 100-seat restaurant, and bicycles for touring nearby shops and attractions.

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Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection | Napa Valley, CA
Set on over 700 acres of rolling vineyards and farmland in the southern section of Napa Valley’s wine-growing region, Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection will embody the “new Napa” with experiences that seamlessly blend local culture with of-the-moment offerings that nourish the mind, body and soul. The resort will include 78 airy hotel cottage suites, all featuring outdoor terraces with fire pits and views of the property’s vineyards and the Mayacamas Mountains. Stanly Ranch will also encompass 70 vineyard residences, together with 40 villas, Hale House, an Auberge spa founded on restoration and recovery, and a working winery and farm. The resort will offer four unique dining venues that pay homage to local farmers and makers and a behind-the-scenes look at wine country with a unique range of immersive experiences. ​​Embracing its 100-year Napa Valley history, Stanly Ranch has undergone an evolution from a working ranch to a deeply-rooted luxury destination, capturing the casual, honest luxury of culture and cultivation.

Allison Sutcliffe

Getaway | Boston, New Orleans, Minneapolis, Kansas City and Indianapolis
Getaway, the hospitality company that offers mindful escapes to tiny cabins in nature, will be opening new locations near New Orleans, Minneapolis, Kansas City and Indianapolis as well as a second location near Boston, the market where Getaway’s very first cabin is located. The expansion adds a total of 224 cabins, bringing Getaway’s Outpost count to 20 and cabin count to 829—up from 13 Outposts and 487 cabins at the end of 2020. The new Outposts are slated to open by mid-2022.

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The Slate Hotel | Denver, CO
Located at the site of the historic original Emily Griffith Opportunity School, The Slate Hotel will pay tribute to the campus’ legacy within Denver The redevelopment of the 2.4-acre landmark preserved the historic buildings and will pay homage to the former school with thoughtful design touches and experiences. The 4-story, 135,000-square-foot property will add 251 guest rooms to downtown Denver.

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Hotel Tupelo | Tupelo, MS
Tupelo’s first boutique hotel, Hotel Tupelo, will sit in the heart of Fairpark District and will feature 79 spacious, urban-inspired guest rooms and suites, a new concept restaurant and bar from a notable local chef, locally inspired artwork, amenities from Tupelo makers and more. The hotel also promises to be pet friendly and is curating a special package for their pup guests. 

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Grand Bohemian Hotel Greenville | Greenville, SC
Marriott Autograph Collection property Grand Bohemian Hotel Greenville will be the first luxury boutique hotel in Greenville that sits on downtown's most prized piece of real estate overlooking the Greenville’s Falls Park, Reedy River and the iconic Liberty Bridge that crosses it. Guests will be greeted by a grand lobby complete with floor-to-ceiling windows that feature downtown Greenville views. The 187-room hotel will also have an art gallery, wine room, library, spa, and multi-story restaurant and bar that overlook the river. 

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TETRA Hotel, Autograph Collection | Sunnyvale, CA
TETRA Hotel, Autograph Collection offers understated luxury and design-conscious options in Silicon Valley's dynamic landscape. The 186 stylish guest rooms and suites feature minimal design, touches of technology and organic elements that intertwine to create an environment of refined tranquility and balance. A rejuvenating, heated outdoor pool and sundeck on the third floor and state-of-the-art gym with Peloton bikes allow guests to submerge their worries and reemerge refreshed.

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AC Hotel Sunnyvale Moffett Park | Sunnyvale, CA
AC Hotel Sunnyvale Moffett Park joins the adjacent sister property, TETRA Hotel, an Autograph Collection hotel, as the all-encompassing leisure hub within Sunnyvale and Moffett Park, connecting visitors with the surrounding community. Located in Moffett Park, an upscale neighborhood in the heart of Silicon Valley, the property is designed following LEED Silver criteria and will feature 164 guest rooms and suites across five floors and includes indoor and outdoor event space. 

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Conrad Nashville | Nashville, TN
Ideally situated in the heart of Nashville’s Music Row neighborhood, Conrad Nashville effortlessly blends urban sophistication with refined elegance to create a retreat within the bustle of the city so guests never just stay, but stay inspired. Designed for the modern traveler, the luxe property caters to guests through its design, culinary and artistic offerings which include an open-air and locally inspired kitchen, stylish poolside experience and a state-of-the-art wellness center. The shimmering glass building is comprised of 234 beautiful and overly spacious guest rooms, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer incredible views of the city.

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Hyatt House/Hyatt Place Houston Texas Medical Center | Houston, TX
The 14-story, 350,000-square-foot Hyatt House/Hyatt Place Houston Texas Medical Center is slated to be branded as a dual Hyatt hotel and extended stay facility; the property will feature 159 hotel rooms under the Hyatt Place flag and 139 extended stay rooms under the Hyatt House brand. The project, at 7329 Fannin St. near the corner of Fannin and Old Spanish Trail, is being developed by Houston-based developer Satya Inc. 

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The Pad Hotel/Hostel | Silverthorne, CO
The Pad is a brand new boutique hotel/hostel in Silverthorne. Located along the Blue River, The Pad is being sustainably constructed with 18 shipping containers and is on track to becoming the first Certified B Corporation for a Colorado-based lodging company. Featuring 36 rooms ranging from private higher-end suites to dorm-style bunks, The Pad offers affordable rates with high-end amenities, such as an on-site restaurant, a rooftop bar and event space, a coworking space, riverside patios, artwork commissioned by local artists, a hot tub and more.

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Humbird Hotel | Sandpoint, ID
The Humbird Hotel will open its doors in early 2022 as the first boutique hotel in the area, providing a new ski-in/ski-out lodging experience. Expect gorgeous views of Lake Pend Oreille and a new restaurant/bar for relaxing after a day of adventures in the mountains. The décor will be a nod to the unique character and history of the North Idaho ski community.

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Pendry Park City | Utah
Set in the heart of Canyons Village at Park City Mountain, the spectacular ski-in, ski-out Pendry Park City will offer a modernist take on a traditional alpine lodge. Paying homage to the surrounding mountain landscape, the resort will boast warm, natural design elements that create a contemporary, open feel, and will feature 153 guestrooms, suites, and residences, each offering floor-to-ceiling windows and curated artwork. Guests and locals alike will enjoy access to four distinct restaurants and bars, a deluxe Spa Pendry and fitness center, a heated rooftop pool with a destination bar, Pinwheel Kids Club, and more than 7,000 square feet of indoor event space.

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The Wall Street Hotel | New York, NY
Housed in the historic Tontine Building that originated as the city’s first Stock Exchange in 1729, the sleek, residentially inspired retreat will boast 180 spacious rooms and suites, a fine dining restaurant featuring a Michelin star chef, and a stylish rooftop bar and lounge with outdoor terrace

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Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences | Singer Island, The Palm Beaches, FL
Comprising more than seven acres of prime oceanfront on Palm Beach County’s Singer Island, the wellness resort will extend 155 guestrooms, 34 grand luxury wellness suites, and a four-story spa featuring meditation gardens, tranquility pools, outdoor Patanjali yoga classes, and sleep specialist services

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Pendry Washington D.C. | Washington, D.C.
Located within The Wharf – the city’s latest waterfront neighborhood – the stylish design hotel will feature 131 guestrooms, three signature dining and bar concepts, Spa Pendry and fitness center, and 5,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting spaces

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The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection | Los Olivos, CA
Set on a historic piece of land populated with old-growth palm trees and close to the many nearby vineyards, The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection originally served as a popular stagecoach stop during the California gold rush years. Considered the social center of the Santa Ynez Valley through the 1930s, the property has remained a lively local landmark, revered and enjoyed for generations. Opening in 2022 as The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, the resort will feature 67 luxury guest rooms and cottages that blend the simplicity of modern farmhouse design with the eclectic style of nearby ranch life. Guests will enjoy a culinary program that elevates the Central Coast and celebrates the seasonal flavors of Los Olivos at an open-air destination restaurant. 

Canada

Canopy by Hilton Toronto Yorkville
Canopy by Hilton Toronto Yorkville will make its debut in the highly sought-after Yorkville neighborhood of Toronto, an area known for trendy shopping and elegant dining. The hotel, part of a mixed-use residential development, will offer 178 guest rooms, an indoor pool and a restaurant and café. 

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Club Med Québec | Québec, Canada 
The four-season, all-inclusive mountain resort Club Med Québec will be Club Med’s first in Canada, just 90 minutes from Québec City in the Le Massif de Charlevoix region. With over 300 rooms spread across 300+ acres, the resort will feature locally inspired culinary experiences, sweeping views of the scenic St. Lawrence River and surrounding mountains, unlimited ski-in/ski-out access and year-round activities including skiing, biking, and hiking, and activities traditional to the region like ice skating and dog sledding. 

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W Hotel
Say hello to Toronto’s newest and most sought-after hotel destination located in Yorkville, where work is always followed by play. Surrounded by iconic art galleries, the city’s best shopping, and world-class dining, the brand-new W Hotel is an urban oasis of culture and style with unexpected like a on-site podcast studio.

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Ace Hotel Toronto
Ace Hotel Toronto makes its home in one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world in 2022. Designed in partnership with acclaimed architects Shim-Sutcliffe, Ace Hotel Toronto is inspired by the multicultural amalgam of the city in the first Canadian outpost for the popular U.S. brand. Built on the city’s rich traditions and history of materials and innovation, Ace Hotel Toronto is a global hub open to ideas old and new.

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Andaz Toronto–Yorkville
Hyatt Hotels' ANDAZ brand will make its first Toronto appearance with the ANDAZ Toronto–Yorkville hotel. The 160-room property will boast more than 15 luxury suites, over 12,000 ft² of event and conference space, a spa, and other amenities, including food and beverage spaces. The hotel will occupy floors 4 through 16 of a new luxury mixed-use tower, offering more than 15 luxury suites, more than 12,000 square feet of event and conference space, food and beverage experiences, a spa, and more.

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Qube Hotel Toronto
If you’re looking for a new hotel in the heart of the entertainment district, Qube Hotel Toronto is the perfect new property.  Located at the historic Westinghouse Canada building site at King and Blue Jays Way, this new hotel will be just a short walk away from the new Mirvish + Gehry Development, Rogers Stadium, Scotiabank Arena, The CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium. It will also have its own new museum on-site, The Theatre Museum of Canada. 

Mexico/Caribbean/South America

Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya

Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya
Nestled among verdant tropical vegetation and overlooking the Caribbean Sea's turquoise waters, the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya will provide a secluded haven for travelers that are inspired by Tulum’s lush landscape and picturesque beaches. The hotel’s selection of accommodations ranges from contemporary and sophisticated master suites to governor and presidential suites. Guests can explore their palate at eleven world-class restaurants and bars that serve an array of cuisine options from Mediterranean and Asian to a special Chef’s Table dining experience. End the evening by unwinding in one of the hotel’s oceanfront pools.

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Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort
Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort will welcome guests to one of the top-rated beaches in the world—Eagle Beach. As the widest beach in Aruba and known for its pristine and soft white sands, Eagle Beach is the perfect location for taking in the stunning blue waters of the Caribbean or partaking in a variety of water sports. Guests can enjoy Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort’s spacious suites, multiple restaurants and bars, two pools (including one for kids), and close access to attractions, dining and entertainment. 

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Hilton Tulum All-Inclusive Resort
The 735-room oceanfront Hilton Tulum All-Inclusive Resort will introduce travelers to an upscale all-inclusive vacation experience. The resort will offer nine pools, 13 restaurants and bars, a luxury spa, a private beach and more. The hotel is also located less than 25 miles from underwater caves, amusement parks and the Tulum city center.

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Waldorf Astoria Cancun
Set on 100 acres of secluded coastline, this new 173-rooms and suite luxury resort will deliver a truly unforgettable experience for guests. Expect breathtaking ocean views, plunge pools, private balconies, upscale amenities and more. 

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Rock House | Providenciales, Turks and Caicos   
2022 brings the opening of Grace Bay Resorts’ anticipated new luxury resort Rock House, further elevating Turks and Caicos as a coveted destination for luxury travelers. As a response to the all-inclusive beach resorts typically found in the Caribbean, Rock House will be a cliffside Mediterranean-inspired hideaway, offering guests privacy and space—two priorities for travelers in today’s world—through spacious studio suites and single-family homes. 

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Bitter End Yacht Club | Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands 
Following a four-year closure and a complete rebuild and reimagination rooted in its sense of place and storied history, Bitter End Yacht Club, a 64-acre island outpost located on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands is set to reopen its doors. Bitter End 2.0 will see a new nautical village, anchored by buildings that function in vastly improved capacities to past landmarks—the Clubhouse Restaurant, the Quarterdeck Marina building, the Watersports Center, and the Reeftique shop. Joined by a Kid’s Activity Center, a Provisions Market, and an exciting new beach bar.

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Hotel La Compañía | Casco Antigo, Panama
Hotel La Compañía, Casco Antiguo celebrates Panama’s storied past and will serve as a place where the destination’s history comes together with the modern Casco Antiguo experience. The hotel’s unique design and architectural plan focus on three distinct wings—Spanish Colonial, French Colonial and American Beaux Art. The design-forward hotel will become a living museum, immortalized and feature 88 luxurious guestrooms, five restaurants, two bars, a rooftop sky lounge, spa, and fitness center, among much, much more. 

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Royal Uno All Inclusive Resort & Spa® | Cancun, Mexico
Royal Uno All Inclusive Resort & Spa® is a 540 all-suite resort that promises an “Authentic Cancun” experience with a blend of classic hospitality, contemporary chic, signature dining, and activities for all ages. To deliver on its promise, Royal Uno® offers guests an exclusive dining experience at its Mexican-cuisine restaurant, Palotinte®; along with waterfront access to one of the highest-rated beaches in Cancun.

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Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya
Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya, a five-star resort, will feature 355 guestrooms and suites that blend island design and luxury comfort. Guests will enjoy incredible gourmet dining at the resort’s five restaurants and five bars created with a promise of cuisine crafted to perfection, premium cocktails, unforgettable experiences, personalized service and wonderful live entertainment. Plus, the resort will feature a massive pool, luxury spa, fitness center and a dedicated meetings & events space.

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Botánika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton | Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica 
The 106 LEED-certified residences at Botánika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton are positioned beside Costa Rica’s two prized jewels: Corcovado National Park and the Pacific Ocean’s Golfo Dulce. Botánika Osa Peninsula serves as a jumping-off point for immersive ocean and rainforest experiences from paddling alongside a gentle 40-foot whale shark to hiking the Finca Raices de Osa Farm to indulge in hand-caught tilapia. Guests will lay their heads to rest in striking open floor studio, 1-, 2-, or 3-bedroom rainforest residences outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, oversized terraces and a private rooftop lounge area fit for nature viewing and stargazing. 

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Villa La Valencia | Los Cabos, Mexico 
Located on the corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, Villa La Valencia will debut the longest lazy river in Los Cabos. The 1,148-foot lazy river will feature an art-mural bottom and complimentary pool floats. The brand new resort overlooks a wide, sandy stretch of pristine shoreline where guests will find a luxurious oasis complete with contemporary suites, multiple fine dining concepts and a stylish cocktail bar. Property-wide water features are accented by tropical landscaping and include a breathtaking infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean and an adults-only pool. 

 

Europe, Middle East & Africa

Sea Breeze Santorini Beach Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton

Sommerro | Oslo, Norway
An iconic and historic neighborhood building turned luxurious art-deco hotel, Sommerro will open its doors in Norway’s healthy and happy capital in September 2022. With panoramic views of Oslo, the hotel is housed in the former headquarters of Oslo Lysverker, the city’s original electrical company, and will be a modern tribute to Norwegian cultural heritage, revolutionizing the city’s hospitality landscape with a strong focus on social interaction and eco-conscious experiences. A community in its own right, Sommerro will be home to an abundance of restaurants, bars, and event spaces including the city’s first rooftop pool and sauna, as well as a unique wellness space in the basement where the building’s original public baths will be restored. On the floors between, a retreat from the demands of the day can be found in the hotel’s 231 luxury rooms and suites and 56 branded residences, which will be spread across the original building and a newly designed extension.  

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Conrad Chia Laguna Sardinia
Conrad Chia Laguna Sardinia will have 107 guest rooms, each with its own private garden or terrace and views of the Chia lagoon. Guests have three terrific dining options, La Terrazza, Sa Mesa and Bar Bollicine. The hotel’s Conrad Spa will also offer six treatment rooms, a spa bar, a yoga studio and a state-of-the-art gym.

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Conrad Rabat Arzana | Morocco
Featuring 120 spacious guest rooms, Hilton’s first luxury hotel in Morocco will offer spectacular ocean views. Guests will be able to experience breathtaking surroundings while enjoying locally inspired food and beverage at two hotel restaurants. Conrad Rabat Arzana will also offer a full spa and salon.

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Hampton by Hilton Doha Old Town | Qatar
Situated in the Old Salata district, Hampton by Hilton Doha Old Town will feature 221 modern guest rooms, an all-day dining restaurant, juice bar, 24/7 snack bar, work zone and fitness center. It will be conveniently located close to Doha attractions such as the corniche, the Museum of Islamic Art, the National Museum of Qatar and the famous Souk Waqif. It will also be in close proximity to the banking district and the Emiri Diwan Palace, and just 12 kilometers from Hamad International Airport.

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Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah | U.A.E.
Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah will boast a range of restaurants and bars as well as a spacious eforea spa. With excellent facilities and amenities, a beachfront location and friendly service, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah promises to become a destination of choice for travelers.

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Lost Property St. Paul's London, Curio Collection by Hilton | England
Lost Property St. Paul’s London, Curio Collection by Hilton, will open this spring to offer stunning views of St. Paul’s Cathedral and other London landmarks. Guests can dine at the hotel’s restaurant and enjoy close access to some of London’s most visited tourist attractions. 

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Motto by Hilton Rotterdam Blaak | Netherlands
Motto by Hilton Rotterdam Blaak will provide convenient access to some of Rotterdam’s top attractions, including the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, Old Harbour, Maritime Museum Rotterdam and Cube Houses. It’s also just a few minutes' walk from Rotterdam’s must-see Markthal, where visitors can shop and explore indoor food stalls and restaurants.

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Sea Breeze Santorini Beach Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton | Greece
Sea Breeze Santorini Beach Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton will be Hilton’s first location on the glamorous Greek island of Santorini. The 37-room hotel draws inspiration from Santorini’s iconic blue and whitewashed architecture and incorporates the island’s rugged natural beauty with stone walls and organic wooden textures. Each room will boast private terraces and a hot tub or pool. Guests can choose from two restaurants and two bars for a relaxed bite to eat or cocktail, with two of the outlets being located on the resort’s private beach. With two pools, a spa, fitness facilities and loungers by the beach, guests can alternate between working up a sweat, getting pampered, soaking up the sun, and cooling off in the water.

Banyan Tree AlUla

Banyan Tree AlUla | AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Previously known as the Ashar Resort, Banyan Tree AlUla is nestled against sky-high rock formations in a pristine valley, blending into sands that surround it with epic views from each of its one-, two- and three-bedroom Pool Villas. The resort will add 47 new units which will bring the accommodation’s total number up to 79 high-end villas, along with a luxury spa and several gourmet restaurants, including Alban, the property’s all-day restaurant serving leisurely culinary delights and Saffron—Banyan Tree’s authentic and celebrated Thai restaurant. This will all be guided by a sensitive design that allows each villa to blend discreetly into the striking natural scenery of the Ashar valley, located nearby the Kingdom’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra.  

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Waldorf Astoria Kuwait
The 200 luxury guest rooms at the new Waldorf Astoria Kuwait will be just feet away from world-class shopping and dining, thanks to its location in Avenues Mall—a destination with more than 1,100 shops and a movie theater. The hotel will also be home to the award-winning Japanese restaurant concept ROKA and will feature an exclusive Club Lounge as well as an awe-inspiring 13,560 sq ft Waldorf Spa. Kuwait City Center, historical and cultural sites, and the Grand Mosque of Kuwait are just a short 15-minute drive away.

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Atlantis The Royal Resort | Dubai, United Arab Emirates 
Atlantis The Royal Resort is set to be Dubai’s most impressive new hotel. The 795-room resort surges 43-stories high and will feature 17 world-class restaurants, many of which will host celebrity chefs such as José Andrés, Gastón Acurio, Ariana Bundy and Costa Spiliadis. Crafted by the world’s leading designers and architects, guests will have access to an expansive sky pool, ocean views, a wellness program and more. 

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Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira | Topuito Islands, Mozambique 
An adventurous new destination and Banyan Tree Group’s very first flag in the continent of Africa, Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira is located 10km off the coast of Mozambique, situated on the private Island of Ilha Caldeira. The island is part of Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, Africa’s largest marine reserve—home to 20% of Mozambique’s intact living corals. Set amidst pristine beaches and reefs, the 100% solar-powered luxury resort will feature 40 private pool villas with stunning views of the Indian Ocean, providing guests a time to connect with its unexplored natural surroundings and embrace the local flavor and culturally rich heritage. 

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Cabot Saint Lucia
Set on a 375-acre peninsula on the northern tip of Saint Lucia, Cabot Saint Lucia will include Coore & Crenshaw’s first Caribbean golf course. Residents and guests will have exclusive access to the very best in amenities, including three restaurants, world-class Cabot Spa, full-service beach club, wellness center, excursions with the Cabot Explorers team and more. 

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Passalacqua | Lake Como, Italy
Built in the 18th century by Count Andrea Lucini Passalacqua, Passalacqua is set on the shores of Lake Como and has hosted historic leaders from Napoleon Bonaparte to Winston Churchill. Sister property to the iconic Grand Hotel Tremezzo, the stately, ultra-luxury mansion retreat will extend 24 stylish suites designed and curated by one of Italy’s most renowned hotelier families – Paolo, Antonella, and Valentina De Santis. Committed to preserving its heritage, Passalacqua will showcase original features, including hidden passageways, centuries-old beamed suites in forgotten stables, and glasshouses with ancient fruit trees. Guests can enjoy the lakeside swimming pool and open-air gym set in the olive groves, vintage boat trips from the private dock, and partake in a variety of wellness and culinary experiences in the manicured gardens such as spa treatments, yoga sessions, farm-to-fork dining, and movies under the stars.

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TOA Hotel & Spa | Zanzibar, Tanzania
Set on a private white sand beach in Pongwe on the east coast of Zanzibar, the tranquil Indian Ocean oasis will include 86 contemporary guestrooms including eight luxurious suites, three swimming pools, a deluxe spa, a signature restaurant, three buzzy bars, and a relaxed café.

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sly Berlin | Berlin, Germany
Located in the city’s trendy Friedrichshain neighborhood, Berlin’s coolest new hotel will be housed across four modernized buildings, interconnected via inviting open courtyard spaces and a striking 2,368 square-foot greenhouse. Comprised of 150 guestrooms and suites, some boasting private balconies, sly Berlin’s interiors will showcase a fusion of nature and urban culture, featuring solid oak wood, Italian serpentine stone, stainless steel, and Brutalist concrete touches. Other highlights include a well-equipped gym and a large rooftop sauna with sweeping city skyline views.

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ON Residence | Thessaloniki, Greece
The lights at the historic "Olympos Naoussa" are about to turn on again. Thessaloniki will welcome not only a legendary restaurant that brings back the glamour of a bygone era, but also a unique hotel that aims to redefine luxury hospitality in Greece’s co-capital. 
A true seafront jewel in the heart of the city with unobstructed views of Thermaikos bay, ON Residence marks a new chapter for the TOR Hotel Group, one of Greece’s most established hospitality firms, operating since 1925. 

Australia

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The Langham, Gold Coast
The Langham, Gold Coast will feature 169 well-appointed rooms and suites on the Gold Coast of Australia, as well as the Jewel Residences by The Langham, which will include 170 serviced apartments. Located on Surfer’s Paradise, the hotel and serviced apartments are in the central and tallest of the three landmark towers that will encompass the Jewel development. It is the first and largest development with direct beach access to be built in the coastal city in the last 30 years. The Langham will feature a casual grab-and-go café, a lobby lounge, a pool bar and a podium sky terrace with another bar overlooking the ocean, as well as the first location of The Langham’s celebrated and Michelin-recognized T’ang Court in Australia, serving award-winning Cantonese cuisine in a 90-seat restaurant with two private dining rooms. 

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Ritz Carlton Melbourne
Destined to be an attraction in its own right as the tallest hotel in Australia, upon arrival at the Ritz Carlton Melbourne guests will enter the hotel lobby via the porte-cochere and take a direct elevator straight to the hotel’s sky check-in on level 79, offering panoramic views across Melbourne’s CBD and beyond. Featuring 263 luxury hotel suites with quality finishes and furniture, guests will enjoy state-of-the-art bathrooms, breathtaking views, and luxurious amenities including day spa, restaurants and bars, concierge services, function rooms, business centre, 500-seat grand ballroom and outdoor garden terrace.

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Peppers Richmond
The latest Peppers outpost, and third in Victoria, Australia, Peppers Richmond will be situated on the historic Bridge Road in Melbourne’s lively inner-city suburb of Richmond. Featured facilities in the 80-room hotel will include a restaurant, state-of-the-art gym and rooftop bar with views over Melbourne Cricket Ground and the botanic gardens. Owing to its location, the bar in particular is expected to become a go-to destination during major sporting and cultural events for both locals and hotel guests.

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Shangri-La Hotel, Melbourne
Sapphire by the Gardens will be a new luxury development, including the long-awaited Shangri-La Hotel, Melbourne. When completed, the five-star Shangri-La Hotel will include 500 guestrooms with three levels of amenities, including a sky lobby, restaurants, spa, fitness center, pool and ballroom. The second tower will include 300 luxury residential apartments as well as office space. A sky bridge will connect the two towers and retail space will occupy the lower levels of the development.

Asia

Hilton Maldives Amingiri

Conrad Shanghai
Conrad Shanghai will open as Hilton’s largest Conrad hotel in the Asia Pacific region. Located in People’s Square in the heart of Shanghai, the hotel offers quick access to museums and historical sites during the day and lively nightclubs after dark.

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Hilton Hiroshima
Catering to both business and leisure guests, Hilton Hiroshima will feature 420 rooms, four restaurants, a fitness center and spa, an indoor swimming pool, a chapel, and more. Located in the central business district of Hiroshima City, the hotel is within short driving distance to Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, and other historic highlights.

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Hilton Maldives Amingiri
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa represents the debut of Hilton’s flagship brand, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, in the Maldives. Located on Amingiri Island in the Male Atoll, this hotel will offer 109 beach and water villas—each with its own private pool. Large parties can book the hotel’s exclusive six-bedroom villa for celebrations and reunions. All guests can explore the culinary offerings of the hotel’s six restaurants and bars—including an adults-only champagne and gin bar, rooftop “teens-only” zone and more. There’s also a Kids’ Club.

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Hilton Singapore Orchard
After a major refurbishment, the 1,080-room Hilton Singapore Orchard will open in March 2022 in the heart of Singapore’s most famous retail district, as the largest Hilton hotel in Asia Pacific. Already open for reservations, the flagship-branded landmark hotel will showcase botanically-inspired modern rooms and suites, and five curated world-class dining experiences—including the internationally acclaimed Osteria Mozza by Nancy Silverton, award-winning Chatterbox, and two Michelin-starred Shisen Hanten. The hotel is also one of the largest event venues in the city with 16 versatile spaces and two pillar-less ballrooms, making it an ideal destination for business travelers. Guests also enjoy direct access to a four-story shopping gallery.

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The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong | Hong Kong
Located in Hong Kong’s Southside district, home to the iconic Victoria Harbor and the city’s renowned Ocean Park, the eco-conscious oceanfront resort is the next much-anticipated international launch from The Fullerton Hotels and Resorts. The luxury hotel – perfect for couples, friends, solo visitors, extended families, and business travelers – will offer 425 guest rooms and suites overlooking the South China Sea, including children-themed rooms and two signature suites with private pools. Additional features include four diverse restaurants, an outdoor infinity pool and kids’ lagoon pool, an indoor kids’ play zone, a luxury spa and fitness center, and versatile indoor and outdoor meeting and event spaces, including a 5,600 square-feet pillar-free grand ballroom.

—Kate Loweth

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We all know that kids playing outside is a good thing (and a bonus when you’re trying to get dinner on the table). They return from their forest frolics and playground romps with rosy cheeks and big smiles. Have you ever wondered why? To get to the bottom of this mystical transformation, we sat down with three experts to suss out the benefits of outdoor play. Read on to shed some light on the topic.

1. It improves focus.

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Parents, raise your hand if you’ve ever mistaken your kiddo for the Energizer bunny because they’re always on the go. As Megan Fitzgerald, the Co-Founder and Chief Learning Officer at Tinkergarten explains, this need to move has to do with kids’ developing sensory systems. They’re learning to take in information and integrate it. And when it comes to stimulating environments, the ever-changing outdoors provides that just-right balance that kids need—not too much and not too little stimulation.

Fitzgerald points out that both kids' proprioceptive system (our sense of body awareness that plays an important regulatory role) and vestibular senses (related to balance and our sense of spatial awareness) are fully engaged in outdoor play. Whether they’re on the playground or walking along a trail, kids are doing the hard work of moving their bodies (think jumping, pushing, bending, swinging), which means both of these ultra-important systems are activated. The result? Those systems get turned on, so kids are better able to focus.

2. It encourages creativity.

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If you’ve ever seen your kiddo turn a simple stick into a magic wand, bake a pinecone pie or jump from rock to rock to avoid the “lava” below, you know how imaginative they can be. When kids spend time in nature, they’ve got lots of room (both literally and figuratively) to imagine and create. Beyond proving just how adorable our kids are, creative play is important to their development. According to Fitzgerald, spending time outside promotes the kind of flexible thinking that helps kids generate new ideas. That’s why that simple stick can be a fishing pole, a knight’s sword or a pencil that makes amazing dirt drawings. The possibilities are endless—and that's the point.

3. It engenders empathy.

Trinity via Pexels

Alongside all this creativity that comes from imaginative play, kids can explore empathy through it too. As it turns out, fresh air and blue skies are the perfect backdrops for this type of learning. By pretending to be that bee flying from flower to flower or a squirrel chasing another around the yard, kids make a connection with the animal they're pretending to be, according to Fitzgerald. And oh, the things they’ll think of when they do! Imagining the experiences of other creatures, especially those smaller than themselves, builds cognitive empathy in kids. It helps them understand different emotions and recognize them in other people. And most importantly, Fitzgerald notes, it leads them to care for and about others.

4. It cultivates curiosity.

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If you've got kids, you know how much they love to ask, “why?” As in, "why is the sky blue?" "Why can’t I do that?" "Why are you so tired all the time?" (We think we know the answer to that one). When kids play outside there’s a lot of natural wonder and curiosity around them.

Leah Carlson with the Wilderness Awareness School in Duvall, Washington sees the effects of time spent outside on kids’ curiosity every day. Often kids in the program create their own stories about what they see around them. And within those stories, kids learn to recognize patterns and ask important questions. They may notice animal tracks after a rainfall that weren't there before or that they can hear certain birds in the morning but not in the afternoon. Noticing these little differences (or similarities) leads them to formulate questions and develop ideas of their own. In other words, they get to both ask and answer their own "why" questions.

5. It improves mood.

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Maybe it’s the fresh air. Maybe it’s the vitamin D boost that comes with playing on a sunny day. Or maybe it’s the endorphins from all that exercise they’re getting. Whatever it is, all three of the experts we spoke to emphasized that time spent outside improves mood. According to Derrick Soong, MD, FAAP with Virginia Mason Medical Center in Issaquah, Washington, playing outside “helps to improve mood” with the bonus of “reducing the risk/severity of depression and anxiety.”

Another part of that mood elevation is the calming effect nature has on people, kids included. Remember that vestibular sense we mentioned earlier? Research has shown that when it’s activated (think: sliding, spinning, swinging) it helps to keep you calm. Calmer and happier kids? Count us in!

6. It builds problem solving skills.

Charles Parker via Pexels

When it comes to life skills, our kids can never have too many. The fact that they can build foundational problem solving skills while on a hike, riding a bike or climbing at the playground? That’s what we call a bonus. As Carlson explains, spending time in the outdoors connects kids to nature, community and themselves and can have a profound effect on the way they approach the unknown. It gives them the chance to plan, prioritize, try different solutions, even negotiate in a safe environment. In the end these skills leave kids more resilient for the future.

7. It encourages healthy habits.

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As parents, we’re always trying to pass along healthy habits to our kids. It’s why we puree kale alongside their applesauce and sing Daniel Tiger’s greatest hits to our tantruming toddlers. Turns out that playing outside can pass along many healthy habits to our kids, too. As Dr. Soong explains, outdoor play “helps provide children with the exercise they need to maintain a healthy weight.” Playing outside is the ultimate stealth workout for kids. Whether they love playing soccer, hiking or surfing, outdoor play can help them stay healthy as they grow.

—Allison Sutcliffe

 

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You know it’s called The Big D and that it’s home to the Cowboys, but there are plenty of fun facts about Dallas and the surrounding metroplex we bet will surprise you! From being home to the world’s tallest cowboy to actually inventing the frozen margarita, here are 15 fun facts about Dallas you might not know.

Cory Collins via Unsplash

1. The frozen margarita was invented in Dallas.

2. 7-11 opened its first location in Dallas and is still headquartered here today. 

3. The biggest Christmas tree in the country can be found inside the Galleria Mall.

4. The largest model train exhibit in the country is on permanent display in the lobby of Dallas’ Children’s Medical Center

5. Barney, the purple dinosaur every parent loved to hate was filmed in Dallas. The show is also where Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato got their first start. 

Gabriel Tovar via Unsplash

6. Dallas was home to the infamous Bonnie and Clyde. 

7. The term “Super Bowl” was coined by Dallas resident and AFL founder Lamar Hunt. 

8. The Dallas Public Library displays one of the original copies of the Declaration of Independence. 

9. Famous musicians from DFW include Steve Miller, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Erykah Badu, Nora Jones, ZZ Top bassist Dusty Hill, The Chicks, Stephen Stills, Usher and Meat Loaf.

10. The Texas State Fair's Big Tex is the tallest cowboy in the world. 

Micah Boswell via Unsplash

11. You can still catch a movie at the Texas Theater, which was where Lee Harvey Oswald was first arrested for shooting police officer J.D. Tippitt. 

12. JFK’s last public speech was made in Fort Worth. 

1`3. German Chocolate Cake isn’t German. The recipe was first printed in the Dallas Morning Star in the ‘50s. 

14. Years before his famous shoot-out with Wyatt Earp at the O.K. Corral, Doc Holliday was a practicing dentist in Dallas. 

15. Dallas is the only major metropolitan area in the country that isn’t near a body of water.

—Gabby Cullen

 

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You can be anything. It’s Barbie’s slogan and an uplifting message for kids everywhere. Now six real-life women who became heroes of the pandemic have their own dolls thanks to Mattel’s #ThankYouHeroes program!

These healthcare role models inspired us with their courageous efforts during a tumultuous time. Their accomplishments saved countless lives and made a huge impact in the fight against the pandemic:

  • Amy O’Sullivan, RN (United States) – Emergency Room nurse Amy O’Sullivan treated the first COVID-19 patient in Brooklyn at the Wyckoff Heights Medical Center, became ill and was intubated, then a few weeks later returned to work to continue taking care of others.
  • Dr. Audrey Sue Cruz (United States) – Dr. Cruz, a frontline worker from Las Vegas, NV, during the pandemic, joined forces with other Asian-American physicians to fight racial bias and discrimination.
  • Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa (Canada)- A psychiatry resident at the University of Toronto, Canada, Dr. Oriuwa has advocated against systemic racism in healthcare, which has been further highlighted by the pandemic.
  • Professor Sarah Gilbert (United Kingdom) – As a professor of vaccinology, Professor Gilbert led the development of the University of Oxford vaccine in the U.K.
  • Dr. Jaqueline Goes de Jesus (Brazil) – As a biomedical researcher, Dr. Goes is credited for leading the sequencing of the genome of a COVID-19 variant in Brazil.
  • Dr. Kirby White (Australia) – A General Practitioner in Australia, Dr. White co-founded the Gowns for Doctors initiative – by developing a PPE gown that could be laundered and re-used, allowing frontline workers in Victoria, AU to continue seeing patients during the pandemic.

Mattel also announced that for each eligible doctor, nurse and paramedic doll sold at Target through August, Barbie will donate $5 to the First Responder Children’s Foundation, which benefits children of first responders. The organization plans to use the money to support the Power of Play Program, which focuses on the social, emotional and behavioral well-being of children.

Along with the current selection of medical dolls, you can also buy a new Fast Cast Clinic playset with a Barbie doctor doll and four play areas. Barbie can use an X-ray machine, check a patient on the exam table, create dough casts in the medical station and direct families to the gift shop. It’s available at retailers now for $49.99.

––Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Mattel

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Twilight star Kellan Lutz and wife Brittany recently announced the birth of their baby girl! The new parents posted sweet pics on Instagram last Friday, with a special message about their daughter.

Lutz and his wife welcomed Ashtyn Lilly Lutz on Feb. 22, after a long road to parenthood. Last year the pair had a devastating loss—six months along into Brittany’s pregnancy.

In February of 2020, Brittany wrote a candid IG post about the loss, her supportive husband, and the medical staff and blood donors who saved her life, “I’m not ready to talk about what happened, and I’m not sure I ever will. But I can say I am SO grateful for the most amazing husband who’s been by my side the entire time. I have the best most supportive family. The prayers from friends have meant everything. My incredible doctor and the amazing team at UCLA Medical Center who kept me alive are the real MVPs. And to all of you who donate blood- I have never been more grateful for you. Without you people like me wouldn’t be here. ”

Just over one year later, Brittany welcomed baby Ashtyn, posting, “The day she came into the world it was snowing, raining, and freezing, but that night she was born and we woke up to sun, clear skies, and winter melting away. It was so symbolic considering this time last year was literally winter for our souls only to be met one year later with the brightest sunshine. She ushered in a new season for us and we love her beyond comprehension.”

Congrats go out to the happy couple on the birth of their daughter!

—Erica Loop

Featured photo: Alex Millauer / Shutterstock.com

 

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Every new mom looks forward to welcoming their newborn into the world and all the “firsts” that follow. Having a baby is a magical time. But taking care of yourself and your baby during pregnancy is just as important as when the infant arrives. That’s why it’s so important to have the right prenatal support, and UW Medicine offers top-notch maternity care.

UW Medicine has been serving Seattle-area families for 75 years, and offers a full spectrum of services for low- and high-risk pregnancies, from prenatal care to labor and delivery. UW Medical Center’s obstetrics & gynecology program is recognized as #23 in the nation and is the only nationally ranked program in Washington. As a pregnant mom, you’re given a care team that will partner with you to plan for the big day with personalized care for you and your baby. Here are just a few reasons you’ll want to turn to UW Medicine:

Pregnancy can be a stressful time and in today’s climate, many people want to stay as close to home as possible. UW Medicine’s Center for Women and Children offers maternity care at multiple locations throughout the Puget Sound region. All of UW Medicine’s birthing facilities have earned Baby-Friendly designation, which is awarded to facilities that uphold the highest standard of infant feeding care.

UW Medicine’s maternity experts and midwives provide safe, personalized pregnancy care so you can have your best birth, your way. You can also access maternity care at home with UW Medicine’s TeleOB program, and their secure video-based appointments provide safe prenatal care for you and your baby.

UW Medicine wants to make sure your family has all the resources it needs for baby’s arrival. That’s why they offer several childbirth and parenting classes, breastfeeding support and genetic counseling. And because UW Medicine believes in supporting moms after they’ve given birth and left the hospital, they also offer a host of postpartum resources and support groups—with parenting classes held virtually via Zoom.

UW Medicine believes that when you take care of you, you take care of baby. With regular check-ins and lifestyle support, UW Medicine helps you maintain good health that benefits your baby too.

Learn more about UW Medicine’s Center for Women and Children today!

—Leah R. Singer

Researchers at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center recently developed a new screening tool that can help to assess preschoolers’ early literacy skills—and the first of its kind type of tool uses a specially designed children’s book.

The study, published in the journal Pediatrics, looked at how well The Reading House (TRH) book-based assessment tool could identify early literacy skills in children ages three through five. Seventy preschoolers completed standardized assessments and 52 completed MRI’s to measure the gray matter surface of their brains.

girl reading

photo: Andrea Piacquadio via Pexels

The researchers found a connection between a thicker gray matter, or cortex, and higher TRH scores. Of the results, TRH book designer John Hutton, MD said, “We found significantly thicker gray matter cortex in the left-sided areas of the brain in children with higher TRH scores, which align with cortical thickness patterns found in older children and adults with higher reading skills.” Hutton continued, “This is an important neurobiological correlate of screened skills at this formative age, when the brain is growing rapidly.”

While the TRH book assessment is designed for use in pediatric healthcare, early education settings, and schools, its potential extends into the greater community and into the individual child’s life. Hutton noted, “By screening early during pediatric clinic visits, especially in practices serving disadvantaged families, we can hopefully target effective interventions that help children better prepare for kindergarten and improve reading outcomes––literally ‘shaping their brains to read.’ ”

—Erica Loop

 

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The Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Dogs for Joy Program  has granted 15 full-time pediatric service dogs to over a dozen children’s hospitals across the country. These dogs, known as in-residence dogs, are full-time employees of the hospital who come to work every day like their human counterparts and serve as a critical part of a child’s treatment team. Three pediatric hospitals will receive their service dogs this month.  

These highly specialized dogs help ease anxiety and reduce stress for young patients and their families. Each of these amazing dogs are trained to do incredible tasks, like keep kids calm during medical procedures, teach kids how to take a pill, or model how to put on a hospital gown. 

Dogs for Joy

Bob is a two-year-old Golden Doodle joining the ranks at the Floating Hospital for Children, the full-service pediatric hospital of Tufts Medical Center in Boston. Bob is from Canine Assistants. His favorite toys are the new Dunkin’ + BARK Munchkins donut hole treats dog toy and his stuffed bumble bee toy. His favorite activities are playing catch and receiving belly rubs. Bob’s best quality is that he brings joy to every person he meets, just by walking into a room. 

Dogs for Joy

Litta, short for Melitta, is the newest service dog to join The Children’s Hospital at OU Medicine’s staff in Oklahoma City. She is a two-year-old Chocolate Labrador Retriever from Canine Assistants. Litta, who also goes by Litta Love or Litta Lu, loves to cuddle with patients, family members, and staff. Her favorite toy is a pink stuffed dinosaur, and her best quality is being brave. 

Dogs for Joy

Dilly has joined the staff of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia from Susquehanna Service Dogs (SSD). He is a two-year-old Yellow Labrador Retriever who loves snuggling. His favorite toys are his stuffed puppy and treat puzzle. He is a goofball who loves to munch on the hospital ice chips. Dilly’s best quality is his patience. 

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of Dunkin’

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You’re having a baby! Now it’s time to tackle that to-do list, which includes everything from picking out a crib to choosing a name. What might not be top of your list right now is taking a hospital tour. But, did you know a hospital tour can help you get a better sense of how you might labor, deliver and recover with your new bundle of joy? So before the big day, schedule a tour and be sure to ask these key questions so you’re as prepared as possible.

Who will be with me when I’m in labor?

Everyone deserves the comfort and reassurance of having someone they can trust with them while going through labor. With Kaiser Permanente, you can expect access to a team of highly trained doctors, midwives and nurses. Rest assured that you’ll be in the careful care of a dedicated nurse during your entire labor experience. In fact, Kaiser Permanente birth centers are staffed 24/7 with labor and delivery doctors, anesthesiologists and other key team members who are well qualified to make clinical decisions, such as pivoting to a cesarean section delivery when necessary.

If this is your second, third or beyond(!) baby and you’re hoping to deliver vaginally, you’ll be thrilled to learn that the VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) rate is 15% higher than the national average.* That’s reassuring for moms-to-be who want to try for a vaginal birth after a previous C-section.

What resources do you provide for moms before the big day?

As your belly grows, so does the need for consistent and quality prenatal care. And the team at Kaiser Permanente is available to ensure you have as healthy a pregnancy as possible with each prenatal visit, test and ultrasound. From nutrition and fitness to relationships and emotional health, you’ll have your care team, articles, videos and resources to help guide you through each trimester.

Kaiser Permanente also offers birth planning and childbirth classes, so you can go into your delivery empowered with the confidence and knowledge you need. You can know that you’re receiving high-quality prenatal care up to and during delivery day, with highly trained professionals and state-of-the-art facilities leading up to and during delivery day.

What resources do you offer once I give birth?

Once your adorable baby is cozy in your arms, it’s time to get some rest and let your body heal. Postpartum care is just as important as all of those prenatal check-ups! And Kaiser Permanente makes an extra effort to help mom and baby thrive. Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center has a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to treat critically ill newborns. And every Kaiser Permanente medical professional is on your team to support breastfeeding and bonding after the birth experience.

Comprehensive follow-up care includes postpartum classes, lactation consultants and your care provider who already knows your baby. Whatever you may experience physically or emotionally, your Kaiser Permanente care team is there to support and guide you.

To learn more about Kaiser Permanente’s maternity care, visit kp.org/maternity/nw.

—Whitney C. Harris

All plans offered and underwritten by Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Northwest. 500 NE Multnomah St., Suite 100, Portland, OR 97232. 2019 Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Northwest

*Kaiser Permanente internal data, data covering the period from January 2015 through March 2018; “VBAC Rates by State,” cesareanrates.org/vbac, accessed August 12, 2019.