By Christopher A. Pape

Shibani Joshi is one of the hardest working financial reporters in the business. Add to that her beauty and intelligence and you have a combination that can’t be beat.

By Christopher A. Pape

The term prima donna may not have the best connotation attached to it, but in the strictest sense of the word (first lady of the stage) Isabel Leonard is one. Not only is she beautiful and talented, she exudes a calmness that is extraordinary when you consider just how much in demand she is.

By Kitty Pilgrim

I approach Santorini by sea. Waves toss my little tender up and down like a fishing boat. The water is so blue, soothing on the eyes. And I understand what it must have been like to live in ancient Greece.

By Travelin' Gal Maxine Albert

DESERT FANTASY: DAR AHLAM

A four hour drive south of Marrakech past the Atlas Mountains and Berber villages takes you to the desert palm oasis of Skoura and Dar Ahlam. From the outside, this restored 19th century Kasbah looks like a traditional fortress. You enter a windowless shadowy labyrinth that leads to a main area with sunlight, music and views of the pool and garden. Adobe walls blend seamlessly with the authentic Moroccan chic décor. There is no reception area, no sign that this is an exclusive Relais & Chateaux hotel with a spa and full service staff who appear and disappear and keep the place running like clockwork. Dar Ahlam is a favorite of jet setters and celebs, such as recent guest Jessica Chastain.

By Anja Mutić

My love affair with Portugal started nearly a decade ago. Since that first visit, I’ve gone back many a time for the low-key pleasures that the country holds, from urban highlights of Lisbon to beach bliss in sun-kissed Algarve.

By Christopher A. Pape

We are big devotees of Curious Jane – a camp for girls. Here they teach empowerment and a positive self-image. I spoke with the creator, Samantha Razook Murphy, who told me of the many new developments.

By Maxine Albert

Ever since I was in Helena, Mississippi and had the great pleasure to taste real southern barbecue from a food cart in the street, accompanying the town’s annual summer blues festival, I’ve been hooked. That’s was hands down, the best barbecue I ever had and I’ve been searching for food as good, ever since.

By Maxine Albert

Great ambience combined with great food at Dinner on Ludlow make for one great evening out. This very hip American Brasserie located on the lower east side delivers Chef John Keller’s interpretation of classic comfort food that translates into delicious dishes that are perfectly prepared and presented. Mr. Keller strikes the ideal balance with cooking and spicing so as to enhance the natural flavor of the dishes. He calls it keeping it simple; I call it art.

By Christopher A. Pape

Claire Thomas is not a name you may know, but it’s one you should. And it’s likely that in the near future it is one you may hear quite often. Creator of the ultra successful food blog, Kitschy Kitchen and host of the new hit show, Food for Thought (produced by Litton Entertainment and airing on ABC on the weekends; check your local listings), Ms. Thomas has been on a roll.

By Christopher A. Pape

Hunter Ryan Herdlicka may not be a household name (nor is it a very common name), but he us one of the fastest rising stars on Broadway today. Having made an acclaimed turn in A Little Night Music, Hunter has gone on to well-received cabaret shows and regional theater around the country. It doesn’t hurt that Hunter is one of the nicest young actors in New York (he isn’t bad looking either). He also happens to be a friend. I hope you like the piece as much as I like knowing him.