Author: Nicole Isaacs

COSTA RICA EXCURSIONS

Published by Nicole Isaacs

My visit to Costa Rica was an adventure binge. I set out to experience the rural areas of tropical rainforests, warm pacific beaches and authentic Costa Rican culture. I visited majestic volcanoes and flowing hot springs, hiked to natural waterfalls, fished with local fisherman, swam along the coast and zip lined through the lush canopy. While the drive through Costa Rica was an excursion and bucket-list trip in itself, the activities in each city made the drive well worth the effort. Tourism companies offer the same activities throughout the country, which makes it tricky when deciding where to do what activities. Over-prepare then go with the flow is my motto when approaching this. I did my research before arriving in Costa Rica, but didn’t schedule reservations until there. I loved all of the activities I decided on, check out my Costa Rica excursions below. Tabacon Grand Spa Resort Hot Springs Fresh off the plane I traveled from San Jose to La Fortuna, home to the Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna hot springs. There are a …

COACHELLA 2015

Published by Nicole Isaacs

I had a quick but fun Coachella this year. I was fortunate enough to get artist passes but could only go for Saturday night so didn’t get to see a lot of performers that I wanted, but grateful to experience some nonetheless. My highlight was Kanye coming out during the Weeknd’s set. It was epic. I also really enjoyed FKA Twigs, Flosstradamus & Axwell & Ingrosso. I had to leave Sunday morning because I had a shoot in LA, but wanted to share a few Coachella pictures with you guys. Until next year! PS. What did you think of my Coachella outfit? xo

GAUCHOS VILLAGE IN GLENDALE

Published by Nicole Isaacs

I had such a fun night at Gauchos Village in Glendale! They had live samba dancing, and lots of food being brought out at a rapid pace. It was one of those Brazilian steakhouses that you turn a wooden block “green” if you wanted the servers to keep bringing food to your table, or “red” if you wanted them to stop. I was overwhelmed by how many different kinds of meat that were offered- it all looked so good and I wanted to try everything, but unfortunately I was way too excited and outdid myself too early in the night and got full pretty quickly. (Next time I will have a system and go in there with a strong game plan). Have a fun night out, enjoy a sangria and don’t be shy to get up and dance with the Samba dancers! Oh, and be sure to get the flan for dessert.

INTERVIEW WITH EXECUTIVE CHEF/OWNER OF BESTIA

Published by Nicole Isaacs

Located in an industrial warehouse in LA’s downtown Art District, I was intrigued pulling up to Bestia for the first time. It was not quite what I expected. But once I entered the restaurant, everything came to life and it all made sense. Packed and buzzing with fast-paced servers and cooks in an open faced kitchen, the restaurant felt alive in a way that most Los Angeles restaurants do not anymore. With brick walls, unfinished ceilings, and rustic decor, Bestia has a raw, urban aesthetic that is unlike any other restaurants in the city. Whether you choose to sit at the bar, in the middle of the restaurant (where you can watch dishes fly out of the kitchen), or in front of the wood-burning ovens at the pizza counter, you’re in for an exciting dining experience. I’ve been to Bestia a few times now and it never disappoints. Ori Menashe and his wife, Genevieve Gergis, are the duo behind the restaurant. Menashe is the owner and executive chef, offering rustic Italian dining with an eccentric …