3: Discover Hidden Gems: Fall Getaways, Bali’s Hotel Ban, and Artistic Inspirations

From Michigan’s Fall Colors to Bali’s Travel Changes: The Must-See Destinations

Author

Jason Bass
September 16, 2024

In this issue, we uncover Traverse City’s hidden fall charm, explore Bali’s potential hotel ban amidst overtourism concerns, and take a look inside Pablo Escobar’s former hideaway turned luxury resort. Plus, get the scoop on Vegas’ new speakeasy nightclub and meet Isaac Pelayo, the rising artist blending Renaissance classics with street art. Let’s dive into the season’s best travel, culture, and lifestyle finds.

  • Hidden Fall Gem: Traverse City’s Leafy Transformation

  • Overtourism Alert: Bali's Hotel Boom Might Be on Hold

  • From Escobar's Hideout to Luxe Escape: Casa Malca

  • Vegas' New Hot Spot: A Speakeasy Within a Speakeasy

  • Artist Spotlight: Isaac Pelayo's Renaissance-Graffiti Fusion

Hidden Fall Gem: Traverse City’s Leafy Transformation

Traverse City, Michigan, might be famous for its summer vibes—think sun-kissed beaches, lush vineyards, and its title as the “Cherry Capital of the World.” But the real magic starts when autumn rolls in. As the crowds thin out, the orchards, vineyards, and forests surrounding the city shift into a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows. The cherry stands are replaced by bushels of crisp apples, and with that comes the undeniable charm of cider donuts, fresh apple cider, and the ever-popular hard cider. Traverse City’s fall season isn’t just a time for beautiful foliage—it’s a chance to experience the region in full harvest mode. Here’s how to plan the perfect autumn getaway to this Midwest treasure.

Overtourism Alert: Bali's Hotel Boom Might Be on Hold

Bali is considering hitting the brakes on building new hotels, villas, and nightclubs to fight overtourism. The Indonesian government is mulling over a moratorium to preserve the island’s culture while ensuring a more sustainable and higher-quality experience for visitors. If you've been dreaming of a Bali trip, this might be your cue to get there before the landscape shifts.

From Escobar's Hideout to Luxe Escape: Casa Malca

Once the hideaway of infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar, a sprawling estate on the Tulum coastline is now a luxury resort. Rediscovered by New York art collector Lio Malca, the mansion has been transformed into a stylish retreat, complete with rotating art displays from legends like Basquiat and Koons. Casa Malca seamlessly merges history, art, and ultimate relaxation in one of Mexico's most picturesque locations.

Vegas' New Hot Spot: A Speakeasy Within a Speakeasy

On the Record at Park MGM is about to turn heads when it opens its doors this New Year’s Eve. A nightclub with a hidden speakeasy featuring a one-of-a-kind twist: cocktails paired with songs. Imagine sipping on a "Pretty in Pink" drink inspired by The Psychedelic Furs or having a bartender craft a unique cocktail based on your favorite liquor and song request. Oh, and there's a double-decker bus turned into a DJ booth—because why not?

Artist Spotlight: Isaac Pelayo's Renaissance-Graffiti Fusion

Born in L.A. and raised by chaos, Isaac Pelayo found solace in art from a young age. Merging the precision of Renaissance masters like Rembrandt and Da Vinci with the raw energy of graffiti, Pelayo’s work is a head-on collision of two worlds. His hyperrealistic oil paintings have caught the eyes of collectors like Sean “Diddy” Combs and Shepard Fairey, and his collaborations with Westside Gunn and Griselda Records have made him one of today’s most sought-after young artists. Keep an eye on Pelayo—his work is going global.

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