Insider

December
The latest news and hottest happenings

Good Enough to Eat
Boutique & Bistro
Mix pleasure with even more pleasure at the Viaggi, a European bistro and boutique in-one, located inside the luxurious Hotel Victor in Miami Beach. The unique establishment is the last word in luxury and convenience; mull over an Italian leather handbag one minute, dine on pear-and-Gorgonzola salad the next. Featured designers include Lacoste, Red Carter and Ben Sherman. www.hotelvictorsouthbeach.com

Just Desserts
Sweet Café
Those with a sweet tooth will be living out their sugar-coated dreams at Atlanta’s new Chocolate Pink Pastry Café. The cosmopolitan sweet retreat in Midtown serves expertly crafted cakes, tarts, brownies and cookies—all packaged up in cute pink boxes. If you don’t have the time to relax amidst the chocolate-brown tables and marshmallow banquettes, the café also delivers. www.chocolatepinkcafe.com

Making a Difference
Volunteer Vacations
It feels good to offer a helping hand—and you can do so even if you’re on vacation. Two Florida Marriotts—the Doral Golf Resort & Spa and the Marco Island Marriott Resort—have introduced Volun-Tourism programs, giving vacationers the opportunity to volunteer at local charity organizations. Lend a hand at the local YMCA of Marco Island or take part in a beach clean-up at the Biscayne Nature Center. As a thank you, the hotels offer discounts on spa treatments and complimentary breakfasts. www.marriott.com

‘Tis the Season
Holiday Tunes
Smooth-jazz musician Brian Culbertson has just started his tour—music to the ears of his many fans who have been listening to his latest CD, A Soulful Christmas, which features modern versions of seasonal classics, as well as a new song, “All Through The Christmas Night.” The tour will feature Bobby Caldwell, Warren Hill, Ray Parker, Jr. and Eric Darius—and is the perfect way to get in the mood for Christmas. For dates and locations, check the website. www.asoulfulxmas.com