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It’s no understatement to say that there are very few occurrences that have resulted in such a worldwide paradigm shift in our lifetimes as that of COVID-19. We are still in the thick of it and already we can see how people are clamoring for change after we’re out. How we live, how the state handles welfare, the importance of scientific literacy and the rise of conspiracy-mindedness are all big questions brought up by the virus still taking its toll. Travel is another part of our lives that might change a lot, and here are some ideas of what the new “normal” might looking like.
People are likely to stay much closer to home
While there may be a lot of people who are more than happy to get far away from home and to find somewhere to relax once COVID-19 is over and done with, there is likely to be an increased sense of caution amongst travelers for some time once travel restrictions start easing off. As such, many people anticipate that we are going to see a great rise in staycations and city breaks and fewer people traveling overseas or too far from home in general. Given the number of people who got stranded from home by being overseas when the borders and airports shut, this is no surprise. People who worry about the potential of a second wave are likely to fear that happening to them, too.
Road travel is going to become a lot more popular
A lot of people are also going to have concerns about using any kind of transport that is shared or the public in general. As such, it’s likely that cruises and air travel might see something of a reduction for a while. Air travel demand might decrease, but that doesn’t mean that travel as a whole will decrease. Instead, many anticipate that road trips and RV purchases and hire are likely to expand. People are going to want more control over their own environment and have peace of mind that they’re not sharing their modes of transportation with people that might be carrying the virus. This might also translate to more people taking the time to go camping rather than entrusting their safety to hotels.
Different countries will re-open at different times
One of the factors worth remembering about the virus is that its impacts are not being felt equally around the world. There are some countries that are still experiencing their first swell of cases and there are others that seem to be at the tail end of things, with no new cases found in some time. As such, they are also likely to have different COVID-19 travel restrictions. We might expect that some countries might restrict travel for tourists for some time while keeping them open for essential travelers or for citizens. Similarly, the countries with the highest infection rates are likely to be treated with more scrutiny, with travel from the countries blocked by other major countries. As such, it will be crucial for travelers to do their research on travel restrictions on a country-by-country basis. You need to see if the country you want to travel from accepts visitors from the country that you are leaving, especially if you live in a place that still has a relatively high rate of transmission.
Airports are going to become a much different experience
Even if the rates of transmission continue to decrease across the globe, it is very likely that airports will take the risk of COVID-19 very seriously for a long time in the future. Already, a lot of airports are installing heat-detecting cameras and implementing longer and stricter checks to ensure the safety of passengers and staff. If there is a COVID-19 vaccine developed at some point in future, it is likely that airports will demand travelers provide proof that they have been vaccinated. Already, some airports are requesting that even essential travelers offer proof that they have tested negative for the virus. As such, we can all expect to have to do more prep work if we want to fly, and to spend more time in the check-in. It may also mean that we have to visit the doctor ahead of time to collect any proof that we might need to present before boarding any aircraft.
Costs are going to change across the board
At the moment, it is very difficult for even industry experts to guess whether or not the costs of travel will go higher or lower in general. Many anticipate that both flights and accommodation will experience a drop in price. Customer confidence will be low, meaning fewer people will travel, meaning these costs can go down. However, most also agree that insurance prices are going to skyrocket. Insurance prices are always affected by risk. If there’s a greater risk of you becoming sick, then insurance costs are going to go up. With that mind, everyone is likely to be at more risk, so everyone’s insurance prices are likely to go up. However, costs may be decreased in some other ways. For instance, many have been predicting that travelers will rely less and less on third-party travel agents and will instead be booking with airlines directly. This is due to the fact that airlines and hotels are going to have their own measures that third-party agencies can’t keep up with.
Hotels and tourist spots are going to become stricter
Just as airports are likely to undergo some changes to ensure that travel is safer, we expect the same to come from the tourist and hospitality industries, as well. For instance, hotels and BNBs are likely to start implementing new measures such as stricter hygiene practices and new employee training, as well as new rules for guests, such as social distancing and the mandatory use of gloves and masks. Tourist spots are also likely to start having stricter rules, such as restrictions on how many people can be at a certain spot at any one time throughout the day. To that end, it’s going to be important that tourists check ahead with any spots they want to visit, find out what restrictions might apply, and prepare accordingly. This could include longer wait times to see some of the most popular spots of any tourist destination as well as rules for mandatory maks wearing.
Everyone should still stay on guard
Aside from the trends mentioned above, we’re going to see most travelers remain very mindful of the risks of going overseas and traveling in general. As such, we should all be sure to stay vigilant, to keep our distance from others, to stay out of crowds, to wash our hands regularly, and to wear our masks. When it comes to traveling in airports, staying in hotels, or otherwise using shared or public resources, it’s important to be wary and to clean one’s environment, too. As such, it will be recommended to travel with your own supply of things like hand sanitizer, cleaning wipes, and masks, as well. Even if a country has no reported cases of COVID-19 in the past weeks, travelers are expected to present a risk of transmission from place to place. As such, the responsibility will be on us to make sure we’re being responsible for the added risk that we represent.
We still can’t entirely predict what travel might look like once COVID-19 has fully eased off. However, we can expect a long transition back to normal given how slowly some countries are recovering.
The end of the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic is almost within sight thanks to promising vaccine discoveries. Very soon, you should be able to travel to other countries where you can enjoy a well-earned break. Here are some amazing places you can look forward to visiting and add to your bucket list:
Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland has some of the world’s most captivating natural scenery and it’s pretty easy to get there! The enchanting hills and lakes are warmed by hot volcanic springs. For complete relaxation, visit the Blue Lagoon Retreat Spa. It’s warm, pale blue pools have a naturally high content of beneficial minerals and silica. The peaceful spa and its treatments should soon make you feel relaxed and rejuvenated.
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is a lush oasis in the deserts of southern California. Many spas have been built around the natural hot springs. You can treat yourself to a few invigorating spa treatments or relax in the peace and quiet of the Coachella Valley’s desert landscape. Alternatively, indulge in some long overdue retail therapy amongst the city’s amazing selection of fashionable designer boutiques.
Paris, France
The city of romance is perfect for soaking up an atmosphere of cafe culture. Wander along the banks of the tree-lined River Seine and stop for warm croissants and coffee in the early morning sunshine. Explore the art galleries and chic designer shops of the Champs Elysee. Then relax in the beautiful, flower-filled surroundings of one of the city’s parks such as the famous Jardin des Tuileries.
Ambergris Caye, Belize
Ambergris Caye is one of many small islands along Belize’s beautiful coastline. It’s like an idyllic tropical paradise where you can find peace and quiet. There are soft white sands, luscious palm trees and magnificent coastal views offering perfect relaxation. Try snorkeling to discover the amazing sea creatures that live amongst the coral of the nearby Hol Chan Marine Reserve.
Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como has a tranquil atmosphere and gorgeous Alpine scenery. It is atmospheric, romantic and relaxing. Enjoy a cruise on the lake, admire beautiful sunsets or explore the fascinating villages full of Renaissance architecture. Bellagio, the lake’s main resort, has a selection of trendy boutiques, bars and cafes to relax in.
There’s no harm in treating yourself to a wonderful summer break where you can relax in beautiful surroundings with your friends or family! Just take the necessary precautions and make sure to pack your mask!
This is so exciting..I was named a lifestyle expert in a Rent article on one of my favorite movies…Please read the article below!!
Nancy Meyers, the legendary filmmaker behind beloved movies like Something’s Gotta Give, The Holiday, and It’s Complicated, is celebrated not just for her storytelling but also for the stunning, cozy, and inviting interiors that adorn her films. These beautifully designed spaces have inspired countless viewers to bring a touch of Meyers’ magic into their own homes. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how you can capture the essence of Nancy Meyers’ interiors and replicate them within your living space, whether you’re buying a home in Brooklyn or renting an idyllic Beverly Hills apartment.
1. Embrace a neutral color palette
One of the hallmarks of a Nancy Meyers interior is the use of a neutral color palette. Soft whites, beiges, creams, and muted grays create a serene and sophisticated backdrop that exudes timeless elegance.
- Walls and furniture: Opt for neutral shades when choosing paint colors and large furniture pieces like sofas and armchairs. Neutral tones on walls and upholstery create a calm and cohesive look.
- Layering: Add depth by layering different textures and shades of neutrals through rugs, cushions, and throws. “Layer plush sofas and armchairs with luxurious velvet and boucle textures for a cozy feel,” Tori Sikkema shares. “Mix a vintage side table with a sleek, modern coffee table to create a timeless yet eclectic look.”
- Accents: Soft blues, greens, and pastels can complement the neutral base without overwhelming it, especially through furniture, throw pillows, and decor accents. “Nancy Meyers’ homes are closer to your own home than you think,” Lori Miller, president of LGC Interior Design, notes. “With the casual grace of a rolled arm slipcovered sofa or a large ottoman on casters placed in a formal seating arrangement a living room is magically transformed into a dynamic setting. Her use of coastal colors: denim blues, whites, and lighter wood tones set the stage for comfort and tranquility. Try this in your own home and see how quickly these changes work to create your own designed film set.”
2. Invest in classic, comfortable furniture
Meyers’ interiors are known for their classic yet comfortable furniture. Think plush sofas, overstuffed armchairs, and sturdy wooden tables that invite you to sit back and relax.
- Sofas, chairs, and tables: Choose pieces with clean lines and a comfortable, lived-in feel. Linen, cotton, and other natural fabrics work well. As Lori Miller mentioned earlier, a slip-covered sofa can add a touch of casual elegance. Solid wood tables with a slightly distressed finish add warmth and character to your space. Farmhouse-style dining tables and coffee tables with simple designs are perfect as well.
- Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix different styles and periods. A blend of traditional and contemporary pieces can add interest and depth to your décor. “Nancy Meyers’ style is not just a trend; it’s a timeless masterpiece of coastal elegance and soulful sophistication,” notes Gigi Day, home décor and lifestyle publisher with Mod Daily. “Combining a palette of shimmering blues, fresh whites, and sandy neutrals, paired with striped patterns and focal point-worthy artwork, creates an inviting home. Giant mophead hydrangeas, well-chosen antiques, and subtle beach-themed accessories complete the look, seamlessly integrating into traditional, contemporary, and modern homes,” Day explains.
3. Pay attention to details
The charm of Meyers’ interiors often lies in the details. “My Nancy Meyers movie, The Holiday showcases the power of details,” Rhegis Morris of The Morris Mansion shares. “She has a supreme talent at making a beautiful home, but what draws me in is her “cozy” factor. Amanda’s Los Angeles mansion is huge, but feels intimate and homey. Iris’s cottage is small, but the coziness comes from the collections around the home giving it that “lived in” feeling,” Morris uncovers. By focusing on thoughtful accessories and personal touches, a space will feel curated and lived-in.
- Textiles: Layer your space with soft, inviting textiles like cashmere throws, linen curtains, and plush rugs. Choose materials that are not only beautiful but also comfortable and durable.
- Artwork and Decor: Display artwork, family photos, and decorative objects that reflect your personal taste. Antique pieces and heirlooms can add a touch of history and character.
- Books: Bookshelves filled with well-loved books contribute to the homey feel of a Meyers-inspired space. Consider adding a reading nook with a comfy chair and good lighting.
4. Focus on the flow, forget trends
A key element of Meyers’ interiors is the effortless flow between spaces, creating a cohesive and harmonious environment.
- Consistent style: Maintain a consistent overall style throughout your home to create a seamless transition from one room to the next. This doesn’t mean everything has to match perfectly or that you can’t layer similar design styles, but the overall aesthetic should be cohesive.
- Choose timeless, classic pieces: Choosing pieces that stand the test of time will ensure a happier decorating and living experience. “To get this feel for your home, stick with timeless pieces, nothing trendy,” Lacey with Hadley James Lighting shares. “Incorporate some antique and vintage decor for character and charm and use organic textures such as wicker and seagrass. Add plenty of table lamps and accessorize with baskets, fresh flowers or plants, silver or black framed photos and neutral pillows,” Lacey recommends.
5. Draw inspiration from her movies
Before you start redecorating, take a closer look at the specific interiors from Meyers’ films that resonate with you the most. Each movie offers a unique style and feel, which can serve as inspiration for different parts of your home.
- Something’s Gotta Give: For a classic, Hamptons-style beach house vibe, draw inspiration from the serene, light-filled spaces with coastal touches.
“Nancy Meyers’ movie set style is all about layering different textures,” Alexa Archibald with Charm Lane LLC uncovers. “Consider incorporating natural rattan elements for window treatments and draping cashmere throw blankets over the backs of chairs. The striped rug in the Something’s Gotta Give living room is iconic – don’t shy away from bold patterns to achieve that signature Nancy Meyers look,” Archibald encourages. - The Holiday: “Nancy Meyers’ design style in The Holiday, my all-time favorite movie, is renowned for its cozy, inviting, and timeless charm,” shares Nicole Steinthal. “Emphasizing a blend of cottage and traditional aesthetics, her interiors often feature warm, neutral color schemes with soft blues, creams, and earthy tones. In addition to Iris’ charming English cottage, “The Holiday” also features Amanda’s luxurious California home, which epitomizes modern elegance with a cozy twist,” Steinthal continues. “This home showcases a sleek, coastal-inspired aesthetic with a neutral color palette, incorporating whites, soft grays, and sandy beiges. This contrast between the cozy cottage and the elegant yet welcoming California home highlights Meyers’ versatile design prowess.”
- It’s Complicated: “To capture the warm and inviting design style of Nancy Meyers as seen in It’s Complicated, (torrid affair not required) focus on creating a bright and cozy kitchen space with an open layout, “Steve with 101 Movies a Year shares. “Use a neutral color palette with white cabinetry, marble countertops, and warm wood accents. Incorporate vintage-inspired lighting fixtures and a mix of comfortable seating options, like upholstered chairs and a farmhouse table. Add personal touches with fresh flowers, potted herbs, and cozy textiles to make the space feel lived-in and welcoming,” Steve recommends.
- Parent Trap: “Creating a home that would make Nancy Meyers swoon is all about mixing different décor styles and incorporating those special one-of-a-kind pieces, which is perfectly exemplified in Elizabeth James’ iconic London townhouse in The Parent Trap,” notes Melissa Townsend with Cerebral Sabbatical. “This European residence seamlessly blends classic elements such as traditional brass fixtures and dark wooden furniture with eclectic touches like the pumpkin-colored walls, reportedly inspired by Lindsay Lohan’s famous hair, and unique oversized sculptures and vases. The real scene stealers are the myriad of mismatched frames, covering nearly every speck of wall space, each showcasing artwork that hints at Elizabeth’s worldly travels and diverse tastes,” Townsend analyzes.
Hattie, with Hearth and Craft Co., echoes the influence of the interiors of The Parent Trap on the design world. “The elements of Elizabeth James’ London home from The Parent Trap is one of my all-time favorite interiors from Nancy Meyers films. From the cozy lamp-light-filled rooms, tall ceilings, art and photos framed along the staircase, flower-filled vases, and warm-toned walls with elegant fixtures mixed in with layered textures. Lived in, effortless but elegant – so cozy.” - Father of the Bride: “If you are watching a Nancy Meyers Film, and you don’t know who the filmmaker or director of that movie was, you’d instantly know by the style of the homes/sets she created,” D’Arcy Vandenberg exclaims. “There’s just something so charming about Nancy Meyers’s decorating style. If the home of Father of the Bride didn’t just make you want a traditional white colonial home — classic, timeless, and collected yet still warm and inviting. Her design inspirations are very attainable and curated, beautiful and homey,” Vandenberg explains.
6. Make it personal
Finally, the most important aspect of capturing Nancy Meyers’ interior magic is to make your space uniquely yours. Infuse your home with items that hold personal significance and reflect your lifestyle and preferences.
- Personal touches and valued items: Incorporate items that tell your story, whether it’s a vintage piece from a flea market, a handmade quilt, or a collection of travel souvenirs. These items add character and make your home feel truly personal. Another great option is to display collections of items that you love, such as pottery, antiques, or family heirlooms. Grouping these items together can create interesting focal points and conversation starters.
- Comfort: Prioritize comfort and functionality to ensure that your home is not just beautiful but also a place where you and your loved ones can truly relax and enjoy. “Outside of the effortlessly cozy feel, I think what we all seem to love so much about Nancy Meyers’ design style is how collected and personalized each space is,” Kayla Breeden Falconer of Kayla’s Kitch and Fix shares. “Instead of trying to replicate interiors she has created, I love to take inspiration from them. Everything in my home is either functional or meaningful (oftentimes both) and I think that’s very important in emulating her style,” Falconer shares. “Overall, your home should be a reflection of where you’ve been, what you love, and who you are, which Nancy Meyers achieves every time.”
Channeling Nancy Meyers: The final flourish
“In Nancy Meyers’ cinematic universe, the homes aren’t mere sets; they’re integral to the narrative, offering glimpses into the characters’ lives that the audience may not otherwise have access to. So, when decorating your own space, forget about copying Pinterest perfection and instead, let your home tell the unique story of who you are,” Melissa Townsend concludes.
Whether you’re redecorating a single room or revamping your entire living space, these tips will help you create an environment that’s both stylish and inviting. Embrace a neutral palette, invest in classic furniture, pay attention to details, and most importantly, make your space personal. With these steps, you can achieve a home that not only looks beautiful but also feels like the perfect retreat – just like the unforgettable settings in Nancy Meyers’ films.
Dubai is one of those luxurious destinations that many people have seen online through Instagram and other social media platforms like YouTube. Travel is a lot more accessible for those who might have never thought to have visited certain places before, thanks to the internet.
We’ve got so much at our fingertips that seeing places like Dubai and faraway destinations can inspire us to take the plunge and go traveling.
With that being said, if you’re looking to visit Dubai but need to do it on a budget, here are some tips to make sure you don’t overspend!
Hire a car to get around
If you’re looking to save a bit of money on getting taxis every day, then you could always look at a cheap car rental Dubai. This is a good way to save yourself the money that you’d likely spend on taxis and when it comes to taxis for tourists, overcharging is often commonplace.
With a hire car, you can have the flexibility of transport whenever you need it and you’re likely going to save yourself a small fortune. There are also plenty of car options so you could go for something more luxurious if you have a bit of extra budget available. However, there are plenty of cheaper options to make travel more affordable.
Go to old Dubai
When it comes to saving money when traveling, going to the old Dubai is a great way to maximize the budget that you’re on. Anyone visiting the country should stop by this part of the city, especially for its culture.
Hop in a traditional boat – an abra – so that you can cross the creek. This is at a small cost of 1 AED which will transport you to the different side of the luxurious city.
Look for cheap eats
If you’re after some cheap eats while you’re traveling to Dubai, then you should certainly look elsewhere beyond the swanky restaurants often plastered across Instagram.
You should look at the 2nd of December Street. This is a mile-long stretch of road that is packed with many street cafes, shawarma stalls, and hole-in-the-wall establishments that will keep your belly full and your heart happy.
There are plenty of options, so you’ll be able to travel on a budget while eating very well!
Grab a bargain in the markets
Dubai has plenty of places to shop for trinkets and gifts to take back home. With that in mind, you should make a plan to visit markets or souks within Dubai, which are known for providing great value and a great deal of choice for shoppers.
For keen shoppers, you can find some really exquisite items from antiques to handcrafted garments and textiles.
Get a cheap history lesson at a museum
If you’re looking to get a history lesson for less than a dollar, then you should look at visiting the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort. As the city’s oldest existing building, there are plenty of archaeological finds from as far back as 1,000 BC.
When going to Dubai on a budget, these tips will ensure you make the most out of your trip.
When: Saturday, April 6 from 4-6PM
Where: 147 Main Street, Sharon, CT, 06069
“The places in which any significant event occurred become embedded with some of that emotion and so to recover the memory of the place is to recover the emotion, and sometimes to revisit the place uncovers the emotion. Every love has its landscape. This place, which is always spoken of as though it only counts when you’re present, possesses you in its absence, takes on another life as a sense of place, a summoning in the imagination with all the atmospheric effect and association of powerful emotion. The places inside matter as much as the ones outside.” – A Field Guide to Getting Lost by Rebecca Solni
I remember seeing a photograph of Katherine’s a decade ago. It was of her hometown in Rochester, NY. During this time I was spending most of my money traveling to different places in upstate New York each weekend. I couldn’t get enough. It was as if Katherine was one of the first to capture the feeling of this land for me. Each photograph made me ache. Every landscape has a spirit. Years later I met Kyle and that very day we found ourselves in his home studio. My eyes darted to a painting of a blue deer that seemed to have its origins in longing, or what Solnit refers to as “the blue of distance.” I had never encountered an almost completely monochromatic painting that had such an effect on me. Informally, the term “blue” comes from an old English word for melancholy or sadness. Katherine and Kyle are lovers. Their love feels rooted. Almost familial. Uncomplicated, organic, and charged by each season. Recently, Katherine and I stood on her porch on a Sunday morning. Kyle had just left for his studio, now down the road. It was March. We gazed over the rolling hills and spoke of the concept of home. Later Katherine picked catnip from her yard for me to bring to my cat Benny. Benny passed away the next day, and that very catnip was the land within her as she left this physical plane. Every love has its landscape. “It is that the joy that comes from other people, always risks sadness, because even when love doesn’t fail, mortality enters in.” Katherine and Kyle are among the select few who make art for art’s sake. And the even fewer that are extraordinarily good at it. The exhibition invites viewers to consider these places both psychic states and geographical sites. Our landscapes somehow stabilize our grief. Katherine’s photographs and Kyle’s paintings embody this concept. Of course, to be able to carry within a spirit of a place is also lucky; “Even nostalgia and homesickness are privileges not granted to everyone” -Emily McElwreath
Kyle Nilan (b. 1986, Boston, MA) is an artist working in Livingston, NY. He received an MFA in sculpture from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and a BFA in printmaking from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. In 2019 he was an Artist in Residence at the Wassaic Project in Wassaic, NY. His work was recently included in an exhibition, Night Vision, at the Warner Gallery at Millbrook School in Millbrook, NY.
Katherine March Driscoll (b. 1986, Rochester, NY) is a photographer and archivist working in Germantown, NY. She received an MFA in Imaging Arts from the Rochester Institute of Technology, and a BFA in photography and ceramics from the NYSCC at Alfred University. In 2014 she was an Artist in Residence and Education Fellow at the Wassaic Project in Wassaic, NY, and in 2021, she was an Artist in Residence at Stoveworks in Chattanooga, TN, where she self-published an edition of handmade books. Her work was recently included in an exhibition, T(HERE), at CREATE Council on the Arts in Catskill, NY. She is currently a Lecturer in Creative Arts at Siena College.