Yolanda Evans

People take vacations for sports, food and culture, why not for sleep?
A 2023 Gallup poll showed that Americans are super stressed and getting less sleep, while the Sleep Health Foundation note d in 2024 that there could be less sleep because of burnout. If a good night’s rest is what you’re looking for, sleep tourism highlights the importance of getting your slumber and recharging. With more people focusing on wellness and health, it’s no wonder this market is estimated to increase by more t...

The drinks industry has long overlooked this continent. A shift is happening.
Africa is often overlooked by those outside the continent when it comes to cocktail culture and spirits production. But in the last few years, a seismic shift has taken place. More people globally have opened their eyes to the talent and unique resources that the continent offers, and its cocktail scene has made waves around the world.
African bars are winning accolades, drink festivals are showcasing its bartenders...

The influence of Black people throughout history is often whitewashed, and the alcohol industry is no exception. Black people played a significant role in distilling alcoholic beverages from slavery to the present. You only have to look at the story of Nearest Green, a former slave who taught Jack Daniel the art of distilling. Few knew of his impact until Fawn Weaver shone a light on that history (and kickstarted a multi-billion dollar spirits brand).
Not only were Black Americans distilling ...

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In making the selections below, we kept the qualifications simple. The term honeymoon suite has no dictionary definition. Here, you’ll find romantic elements—special bathtubs, private pools, wood-burning stoves—sprinkled throughout. But in the end, these are simply among the most impressive suites in the MICHELIN selection, those with a lot of pizzazz and once-in-a-lifetime appeal, in hotels that span floating palaces to architectural desert masterpieces.
Perfect for a honeymoon? Absolu...

All Articles 5 underrated European ski towns to visit this winter
Trade long lift lines for these stellar, budget-friendly resorts.
By Yolanda EvansOct 30, 2024 • 5 minutes read
I was first introduced to skiing in elementary school when we took a field trip from Indianapolis to a nearby slope. Was I any good? Nope. But I had a ton of fun playing in the snow. Sadly, I didn’t try skiing again until 2019—it was just too expensive in Europe, where I now live—when I stumbled upon Romania’s hidden-...

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Diversity & Inclusion
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Production & Consumption
“When it comes to coffee, we don’t really have a seat at the table,” said Jones. “Even though we built the table, we’ve got to do the work to create our own narratives.”
In the heart of Memphis’ Highland Heights neighborhood, a coffee shop and cultural hub aims to reclaim coffee’s Black heritage. Cxffeeblack, founded in 2019 by husband-and-wife team Bartholomew Jones and Renata Henderson, promotes coffee’s cultural ...

Adrian Michalcik, named the world’s best bartender in 2022 at Diageo’s annual World Class competition.
Anna Postnikova
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The main space at Bar *ISM, known for an ever-changing menu of creative cocktails.
Bar *ISM
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Pier 42, inside the boutique hotel Amerikalinjen, draws inspiration from two destinations: Norway and New York.
Francisco Nogueira / Amerikalinjen
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While most vacations are usually relaxing, you might as well take an extra step to ensure your body, mind, and soul are in sync. A visit to one of the more than 1,600 hot springs scattered across the U.S. is a good way to recharge. Taking a trip to a hot spring resort is not a new concept. It was popular in the late 19th century when people flocked to soak in these mineral-rich waters since the hot springs were thought to be a cure-all for many ailments.
This long-forgotten trend has been gai...

Culinary Creatives Chat
“I have been making this in my kitchen for friends and family for almost 20 years.”
updated on 10 Oct, 2024
Before Jackie Summers became a household name in the spirit industry with his award-winning hibiscus liqueur Sorel, he encountered many bumps in the road. One of the road bumps that led him to creating his liquor brand was when his doctor found a tumor inside his spine that was the size of a golf ball.
It was the impetus for Summers to reevaluate his life.
“I got...

After being overshadowed by Guinness and Irish whiskey the last few centuries , poitín—the lesser-known Irish spirit—is seeing a revival. This Irish moonshine, deeply rooted in the country’s history and lore, is traditionally among the most potent alcoholic drinks on the planet—and it was very illegal in Ireland for over 300 years until 1997, when the ban was lifted. The illicit spirit has more depth to it than whiskey, as it was the original “uisce beatha” or “water of life” in Ireland. Trad...

Distilled, Featured Articles
Courtesy Lost Spirits Distillery
When visiting distilleries, great drinks are undoubtedly important, but so are the experiences.
WORDS Yolanda Evans
It can be amazing to visit the place where a favorite spirit is made, but after checking out a few distilleries, the unfortunate reality is that tours can become dull and begin to blend together. The gist is you listen to the history of so and so spirit from an engaging tour guide, get a tasting and then somehow end u...

Once the former home of the Stasi, the space was revamped and renovated to create a hip and fashionable boutique hotel, Château Royal, in the heart of Mitte. When walking into the bar, you’re greeted with positive affirmations such as “You sexy m***** f*****!!!!”. And you know what else is sexy? The elegant atmosphere, delightful cocktails and high-class service — whether you’re a hotel guest or not. Open from 12 pm to 22 pm, it’s a great meeting place for business or pleasure. Indulge in a t...