Jasmine Nights: Rome, Italy
Rome, Italy is exactly what you think it is. But then, somehow it’s not. Like how it always reeked of piss and jasmine the entire time. Which made it all feel even more captivating and cinematic. Yes, it’s true. The hundreds of fountains were in full swing, but from one foreigner to another stick to the bottled water. Rome is a crunched city, blending ancient history with modern charm. The columns, statues, food, and hand gestures are all still frozen in time, but the experience was as refreshing as a chilled espresso martini on a Thursday morning.
During my stay, I opted for a one-bedroom Airbnb in Pigneto, a neighborhood often referred to as the "Brooklyn of Rome." Most people prefer to stay in Monti or Trastevere, but if you want less crowds and chaos stay here. It’s only about fifteen minutes from the city center. Right off the bat, if you’re not walking everywhere the best invention is ITAXI, which is essentially Rome’s car service. This will help you get around efficiently. Okay, back to our scheduled programming. Pigneto boasts a calm, eclectic, artsy scene, with cafes, bars, and unique restaurants that caters to a more offbeat crowd. While out exploring the neighborhood I really enjoyed the local artistic atmosphere. However, it's worth noting that Pigneto does lack any desirable shopping options, so if you desire a broader retail experience, then venturing into the city center is necessary. My favorite places in Pigneto were Niché for coffee and cocktails. Also Borgo, I had my first Puccia Burger. It was so good! During the night the city of Rome takes on a Mumbai-Italian vibe, as the silky sky contrasts the glowing street lights and bustling night life. Honking cars, classical musical, and trickling fountains break the sound barrier.
The city center of Rome is a shopaholic's paradise, offering a plethora of options for retail therapy. From high-end fashion boutiques to local artisanal shops, there is something to suit every taste and budget. The streets are lined with renowned designer brands allowing visitors to indulge in a luxury shopping experience. Additionally, the city center is home to various markets, such as Campo de' Fiori and Porta Portese, where you can certainly find unique souvenirs, fresh produce, and vintage treasures. Maybe even, a few things you didn’t know you needed. Most of the thrift stores and vintage shops are actually located in Monti or Trastevere. Definitley check out these amazing shops where I myself got a couple of things. Omero and Cecilia, Vesti di Messalina, and Humana Vintage! Honestly, walking around and exploring all the shopping districts was one of my favorite things to do while visiting, and is a must for anyone seeking a truly diverse retail experience in Rome.
Beyond its many shopping opportunities, Rome's city center is a trove of historical and cultural landmarks. From the iconic Colosseum, which is surreal to see up close. Or the illustrious Roman Forum, where you can literally spend the entire day walking around like an ancient roman. The views from this area were incredible to say the least. The ruined columns up close are adorned with garlands, torches, and surrounded by colorful poppies flowers. The special highlight for me was seeing ethereal parrots soaring above. I found myself closing my eyes to imagine myself reliving a past life. For tourists sake, definite must visits are the trevi fountain, the Pantheon, and the Macuteo Obelisk, which is an Egyptian obelisk dating back to 37AD. Also, there is the breathtaking Vatican City, rich in history and former pope tombs. This metropolis is the central blood line of Italian religion and stretches across a whopping 109 acres of independent city-state. A Koyote trip trick is booking your trip around Italy’s Republic Day, on June 2nd, their Independence Day. All the museums and landmarks are free admission, but tickets and reservations are a must. If you expect trying to get in without one, you’ll be turned away.
Lastly, let’s talk about the food! This magical city also offers a vibrant and delicious culinary scene, with numerous trattorias, pizzerias, and gelaterias serving up quintessential Italian cuisine. It’s gelato everyday, or it’s no deal. My favorite flavors you must try are the salted caramel, Ferre Roche, or cherry chocolate! I will admit finding the best places to eat didn’t depend on reviews or stars, but word of mouth and gut instincts. The pasta sometimes was okay, and others were amazing! I realized I didn’t like wet pizza. But we’ll talk about that another time. However, I did love on the go potato, onion and cheese pizzas. So good! The wine is always organic, and the limoncello was often complimentary. The service and hospitality of the Italians is one of the best in the world, and they really make you feel apart of their family.
Rome was a dream that went by too fast! If you do decide to come here, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with just how incredible this place still is after all this time. Eat everything because you will certainly burn it off and look ten years younger. Make sure to wear your most comfortable shoes, the cobble stone roads aren’t for the faint of heart. And don’t forget to leave a little room for all the gems you find while out shopping and strolling throuh the streets, you’ll be sorry you over packed. Overall, this city has so much to offer, and when YOU’RE finally here, soak it in, immerse yourself in this city’s rich history and culture. ‘Underneath the jasmine nights, let Rome into your heart. If the moon ignites, embrace your new dolce vita life’.
🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5
Release your inner star child: ‘The Meltdown’ Joshua Tree, CA
‘The Meltdown’ in Joshua Tree, California, is an Airbnb fortress of solitude. Secludedly bordering the crystal quartz mountains of Joshua National Park, this desert oasis offers a warm, enlightening, and transformative experience. Designed by Artist Shawn Button, ‘The Meltdown’ is an immersive stay that transports you into an alternate dimension, where comfort is key and time seems to stand still. The space functions as both a gallery of Button's work and a living, breathing art installation.
The decadent design promotes a sense of play and encourages you to tap into your inner star child, providing the perfect incubator from the chaos of city life. Lush vibrant vegetation, reflective stained glass, and mesmerizing sculptures illuminate the space. Surrealist archways are a prominent feature, as is the color way of brushed pink, lavender, blue, and yellow hues to enhance the areas sunsets. It’s 360 degrees of precision and ambition pushing the boundaries of what is considered to be a ‘normal’ getaway. Button himself described the process of creating this space as “Divinely instinctual and exhilarating”. He says “He’s happy to have created a safe place for guests to find their peace, and to be able to share his passion project with the world.”
Private and surrounded by nature, the location allows you to really disappear into the unknown. The front entrance is adorned with Spanish and Italian tiles, and a signature black and white door symbolizing the portal to yin and yang. The inside of the luxurious property features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, a dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen. My shower was, I must say particularly noteworthy, reminiscent of showering in what can be described as a Moroccan dream. The outside features spaces to enjoy, including a covered side patio, a cactus garden, an outdoor shower, and a hot tub with unobstructed views of the landscape. This spot is particularly special for wishes, stargazing, and spiritual connection.
Feel like getting out of the house? The house is located on the northern edge of the Joshua Tree National Park, so you can walk directly from it to access the park’s hiking trails. Nearby there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars. A personal favorite is the local Mas O Menos, serving fresh coffees, sandwiches, and after dark cocktails. Or Brewja Cafe for the best specialty lattes and teas you’ll ever have in your life. If you want the best iced cappuccino head over to Crossroads Cafe. Looking for a vibe? Enjoy town dives during the night at The Saloon, The Tiny Pony, and The Copper Room. I was honestly amazed at how many cute, local fun shops were established here!
Overall, ‘The Meltdown’ offers a truly unique and harmonious vacation experience that supersedes expectations. Thoughtfully designed, stunning sights, and visionary art installations, it provides a place where you can melt into your own creativity and enjoy the soft, silent embrace of the desert…
A very special thank you to Shawn for welcoming me graciously into his home. Book your next trip here ‘The Meltdown’ on AirBnb.com. Also, check out ShawnButton.com to view all his latest works!!
🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺5/5