Feeling like your skin looks dull and wintry? You’ve got plenty of company. According to Booking.com, wellness travel is shifting toward so-called “glow-cations.”

These aren’t your typical relaxation getaways. Instead, travelers are booking highly personalized, tech-driven experiences designed to deliver visible results. Think skin-specific treatments, sleep optimization, and science-backed rituals working together. This new wave of glow-cations goes beyond facials and massages. It promises full-spectrum renewal, inside and out. Nearly eight in ten travelers now say they would book a trip built entirely around skin health, blending ancient rituals with next-gen science. The goal has shifted from recharging to coming home visibly transformed.

Read on to learn how glow-cations are redefining the future of wellness travel!

Skincare specific travel: courtesy of tech

Now, let’s explore how a glow-cation looks like in practice. At the intersection of luxury and longevity, these journeys are redefining rejuvenation. Picture thermal waters paired with microbiome mapping. DNA-based facials alongside forest bathing. Wellness travel becomes deeply intentional and deeply personal.

Nearly 80% of travelers say they would consider booking a dedicated glow-cation built around skin-specific treatments tailored to their individual needs. Booking.com’s Travel Predictions: The Era of You underscores this shift, positioning technology as an enabler, in place of a distraction. AI is increasingly used to identify ideal destinations based on personal skin profiles, such as optimal humidity levels or access to mineral-rich hot springs.

Personalization extends beyond treatments. Seventy-two percent of travelers could imagine using customized hydration stations that adapt to climate and daily activities. Sixty-four percent feel intrigued by smart mirrors that analyze pores and deliver real-time skincare guidance. Nearly six in ten (59%) would even consider using AI to select destinations aligned with their skin health goals. This results in a new class of high-touch journeys centered on the body’s largest organ: the skin. Experiences span ancient thermal rituals and cutting-edge DNA and microbiome testing, all designed to deliver visible transformation, replacing temporary escapes.

Performance and recovery also play a role. To combat jet lag, 71% of travelers feel interested in body-movement analysis and personalized exercise routines. Sleep, long recognized as critical to skin repair, presents another priority. Seventy-five percent express interest in rest-optimization “enhancement suites,” featuring circadian lighting and immersive soundscapes. In the era of glow-cations, looking well-rested has evolved from delivering a bonus to becoming the point!

Finding your glow

As glow-cations shift from trend to standard, 2026 marks a clear inflection point. Wellness travel sets out for a major glow-up, with 93% of Indian travelers open to booking a dedicated glow-cation focused on skin health and renewal.

Destinations are already responding. Australia’s Port Douglas has emerged as a wellness-led hotspot. At Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple, Vie Spa offers highly personalized treatments, including its “Couture” one-hour prescriptive facial. Targeted ampoules address specific skin needs: ranging from vitamin C and propolis to illuminating oxyzomes, collagen and caviar, and Escutox (Topical Botox). This new era of travel targets less at escapes and more at returns. That mindset defines Blue Sky Escapes, founded by travel visionary Krystal Tan H L. Her approach reframes luxury travel as a pathway to self-discovery, healing, and transformation.

Blue Sky Escapes curates intimate, immersive journeys that blend mindfulness, cultural immersion, and personal growth. Over the past 18 months, the brand has expanded its retreat offerings and built a community of travelers seeking meaning beyond five-star amenities. Personalization extends past the itinerary. Guests receive the brand’s signature Grounding Essential Oil Blend roller ball, formulated with frankincense, patchouli, rosemary, lime, and grounded in Moroccan argan oil to restore balance.

Glow-cations open a new chapter in skin-first wellness travel: designed to deliver visible renewal beyond relaxation. Symrise supports this glow-forward future with cosmetic ingredients engineered for radiance. From SymBronze for natural-looking tanning to SymBright for skind-brightening and Supervisome EPH for enhanced luminosity, science-backed solutions help extend the glow long after the trip ends.

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Ideating for the next-gen consumer

Approximately 70% of the immune system originates in the gut – says modern science. That insight highlights a strong connection between digestion and overall health. With this knowledge, consumers are rethinking their routines. They’re chasing energy, immunity, balance, and hydration. Wellness becomes intentional, personal, and a conscious decision.

As a result, a new wave of health-focused innovation is taking shape. Nutrition, sensory experience, and wellness come together via personal, cross-disciplinary solutions. Global gut health and hydration products reflect this shift. Formulas grow smarter. Postbiotics, precision fermentation, and microbiome-focused blends gain traction. Probiotic and prebiotic drinks now target digestion, ease feelings of fullness, and support overall well-being from within. The goal? A diet that feels good and tastes better. Curious where this ecosystem leads? Read on!

Ready-to-drink innovation accelerates

Are you constantly heading somewhere? The ready-to-drink (RTD) category continues to evolve, appealing to those seeking convenient ways to support their gut health on the go. One brand, microbz, employs the way nature has supported human health for centuries. The drinkable shot brand harnesses bacteria directly from UK soil and ferments them with generous doses of medicinal herbs and minerals. The result? An award-winning supplement (British Vogue & Wellness From Within Gold, 2024) designed to ease gut issues linked to a depleted microbiome. The fermented product, with a pH of 3.2, was designed to survive stomach acid and was formulated as a liquid for improved absorption. Another UK-based development, Remedy Drinks, offers a range of fermented beverages rich in live cultures and probiotics. From kombucha to gut-friendly tonics, Remedy provides a refreshing and effective way to support digestive health. These drinks taste good and are also packed with antioxidants and probiotics to support your gut health every day.

Healthier hydration products

Also driven by on-the-go wellness trends, healthier hydration products are quickly becoming the drink of choice in workplace convenience channels. Alex Edwards, Senior National Sales Director for Hint Inc., says consumer demand for “better for you” options is growing in the workplace. Hint’s flavored waters tap into that shift. The still versions utilize essential oils to achieve a naturally fruity taste. The sparkling line adds electrolytes for a refreshing, fizzy boost. Convenience, he adds, continues to play a major role in workplace channels. Grab-and-go with free of sugar, calories, or sweeteners help consumers stay hydrated with Hint all day long!

Along with the rise in wellness programs among corporations, employers have begun stocking break rooms and vending machines with improved hydration products. Matt Levine, Founder of Chlorophyll Water, says: “There is a growing shift toward functional beverages that support wellness, energy, and hydration.” Chlorophyll Water offers a plant-powered mountain spring water that meets the standards of the Clean Label Project. They have tested their products for more than 90 environmental toxins, harmful chemicals, and plasticizers. The chlorophyll-enhanced water contains essential vitamins A, B12, C, and D.

Smart formulations for everyday wellness

Symrise continues to prioritize tailored solutions that support digestive health and overall well-being. Responding to this demand, the team developed Prunease, a novel prune juice concentrate from the diana food portfolio. In partnership with Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the University of Technology, Symrise conducted a clinical trial with 38 participant volunteers experiencing digestive irregularity. After two weeks, findings suggested the role of the concentrate, at a low dose of 15ml, in supporting normal bowel function and activity.

The diana food portfolio features natural ingredients designed to support daily wellness. These clean-label options offer a simple, effective alternative to traditional sports drinks. Acerola adds vitamin C to support energy. Coconut water provides potassium to help muscles work properly. Bee4Perf includes plant-based compounds that may support physical performance.For joint health and mobility, Chondractiv Move blends collagen, hyaluronic acid, and other nutrients. These solutions are made to support active lifestyles and help people feel their best every day.

From seasonal sips to smart supplements, summer represents the ideal time to refresh routines, support digestion, and stay balanced. As consumers look for functional benefits in every bottle, the intersection of hydration, mobility, and gut health continues to shape the next generation of wellness drinks Discover how Symrise and the diana food portfolio support brands with natural ingredients and smart, lifestyle-focused solutions!

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Sleep, the new beauty secret—while most people aren’t getting enough. On average, they log 6.4 hours of sleep a night, falling short of their ideal 7.4 hours. Stress only makes it worse. The good news? A new wave of sleep-friendly beauty rises. From dreamy supplements to glow-boosting night creams and calming functional drinks, rest gets a serious upgrade. These products entail valuable rituals to help unwind, restore, and wake up radiant. Read on to see how sleep becomes the ultimate beauty power move.

Double-duty beauty while you sleep

Harper’s BAZAAR’s Go To Bed With Me series may have sparked a movement. According to Vogue Business, sleep has become a status symbol of beauty. Wind-down routines work as the new social flex. Nighttime beauty is booming. Estée Lauder is leading the charge. The brand launched Advanced Night Repair over 40 years ago. Now, it’s doubling down. Earlier this year, Estée Lauder named sleep scientist Dr. Matthew Walker its first Global Sleep Science Advisor.

The iconic line has evolved. New launches include:

• Repair Cleansing Gelee with 15 amino acids
• Advanced Night Repair Serum with multi-recovery complex
• Eye Repair Concentrate
• Supercharged Gel Creme Synchronized Multi-Recovery Eye Cream

Estée Lauder has continued to expand clinical research into “sleep science”, focusing on the biological behaviors of skin during sleep. The brand unveiled findings suggesting that the visible effects of poor sleep on the skin can potentially be reversed. The brand patented a peptide called tripeptide-32, which claims to help resynchronize the skin’s circadian rhythm. The latest Advanced Night Repair Eye Lift + Sculpt serum is set to launch this summer, with additional products in the franchise to follow.

Sleep innovation has added to new products to the much appreciated serums. Vichy took things further with the launch of Mineral 89 Moisture Recovery in February. The formula uses melatonin, the trending, clinically proven ingredient known to help regulate the skin’s circadian rhythm. No7 followed suit. The brand reformulated its No7 Night Complex and Pre-Sleep Fragrance, adding powerful antioxidants and humectants to boost overnight results. In March 2024, Therabody introduced science into the mix. A new medical advisory board now backs its research on sleep tech. Devices like the Therabody Sleep Mask and Smart Goggles are designed to support deeper rest and amplify beauty benefits by morning.

Retailers & brands expand sleep offerings

Have you noticed an increase in products featuring the word “sleep” in their names? Space NK, the beloved UK-based beauty retailer, has certainly added to the trend. Kourtney Kardashian Barker, looking to globally expand her beloved line of science-backed supplements, partnered with iherb, particularly on her lemme SLEEP tight gummies. Luxury hotels and gyms, including Six Senses and Equinox, offer blackout rituals, sleep coaching, and in-room breathwork menus.

Symrise reported on this growing direction early on! Sales of sleep-encouraging pillow sprays have grown by 81 per cent in 2025, according to Clearpay. On Pinterest, searches for “going to sleep” routines have increased by 360 percent this year compared to 2024.

As consumers redefine health, the sleep economy stands to benefit. Management consultancy McKinsey forecasts sleep wearables will reach $32 billion by 2026, nearly triple their 2019 value of $11 billion. Sleep aids reached $4.8 billion in global sales in 2024, up from $3.4 billion in 2019, according to Euromonitor. This shift presents significant growth potential for brands that can discover new ways to promote good sleep across skincare, wellness, and technology. Brands such as Cuddle Sleep Health exemplify this shift. Their Luminous Blue Instagram offers both solid advice and product support!

Mushroom-derived products are gaining popularity for sleep support, thanks to their adaptogenic and neuroprotective properties, as noted by Symrise. Beyond blankets and sheets, adaptive sleepwear and smart bedding blend fashion and function to meet the rising demand of consumers. As sleep evolves into a marker of status and wellness, brands continue to invest in science, personalization, and clinical results—reshaping the bedtime economy.

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Have you ever had an inspiring woman as a mentor? Someone who led by example, offered guidance, and supported you on your journey? Maybe this came from your mother, a friend, a colleague, or a supervisor who encouraged you to grow and succeed. This International Women’s Day  2025, on March 8, the world celebrates women’s remarkable achievements across all fields. It also serves as a powerful call to action to accelerate progress toward gender equality. Together, for #IWD2025, everyone can take part in the movement to #AccelerateAction.

Did you know we’ve celebrated International Women’s Day for over a century now? The first gathering occurred in 1911 and got supported by over a million people. IWD transcends borders, organizations, and groups today, making it a truly inclusive and global celebration. As Gloria Steinem, the renowned feminist, journalist, and activist, once said: “The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organization but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.” Make this International Women’s Day your day, too. Together, individuals everywhere can create a positive, lasting impact for women. How will you make a difference?

Women partner for progress

While women have made strides in many areas, tremendous potential for growth remains in securing leadership roles in business. Just before the holidays, The New York Times convened a task force of female entrepreneurs and activists at the DealBook Summit to discuss Women, Power, and Money in 2024 and Beyond.

The distinguished panel included Diane von Furstenberg, fashion designer and philanthropist, and Emma Grede, co-founder and CEO of Good American and founding partner of SKIMS. A key question emerged: despite significant progress, how can we continue to advance women’s representation in leadership?

Diane von Furstenberg, who has mentored and participated in similar women-centered events, later reflected on Instagram about an inspiring dinner hosted by Emma Grede. She wrote: “Last night in Los Angeles, @emmagrede hosted the most glamorous, inspiring dinner party with 40 badass, successful, compassionate women who shared their fight and success to earn ‘a seat at the table.’ Listening to them, I believe more than ever that kindness is a currency, and generosity is the best investment. Thank you, Emma!”

The discussion and reflections highlight women’s progress and the opportunities ahead, fueled by collaboration and support among women striving for change.

Brooke Shields, actress, model, and author, attended the NYT event as well. The movement to mentor has started to change how the entertainment industry interacts. A recent Actress Roundtable featuring Demi Moore, Zendaya, Zoe Saldaña, Mikey Madison, and Tilda Swinton received much praise for inclusivity. Industry veterans, paired with ingenues, traded stories and shared words of wisdom and advice.

Global events bring women together

Are you feeling ready to join a groundbreaking event shaping the future of women’s studies? The 7th Global Conference on Women’s Studies (WOMENSCONF) is happening July 25-27 in Copenhagen! This inspiring event brings together researchers, activists, and scholars worldwide to dive into meaningful discussions on women’s issues. Grab your chance to gain knowledge, feel empowered, and connect with a global network of incredible women. As a bonus, participants will enjoy a complimentary city tour, exploring Denmark’s stunning capital’s rich culture and history. Embark on this memorable experience!

If you cannot attend the event, the following 20 Leadership Books for women show how to lead globally with confidence and impact in 2025. How about a 2025 Guide to Building a Women’s Mentoring Program? Discover how women’s mentoring programs promote gender diversity and gain practical tips for building successful initiatives! Symrise has launched initiatives to increase the number of women in management positions and foster an inclusive environment. By signing the Women’s Empowerment Principles, Symrise demonstrates a strong commitment to promoting gender equality in the workplace. How do you plan to celebrate IWD and support mentorship in 2025?

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Soap may seem like an everyday staple. We find its story particularly remarkable. With roots stretching back thousands of years, soap has served as so much more than a mere tool for cleanliness. It symbolized luxury, art, and culture. From ancient Babylon to modern Paris, soap can do more for you than washing. It connects to the past, indulges in beauty, and transforms a daily ritual into something functional and profound. Read on to look at how this modest bar has evolved into something truly everlasting.

Ancient wisdom: soap’s beginnings and enduring methods

Has hygiene become an obsession in modern times? Quite the contrary. Soap-making spans nearly 5,000 years, connecting us to a rich historical tradition. Archaeologists have found traces of soap in ancient Babylonian clay artifacts, complete with recipes etched into the surface. In Aleppo, artisans crafted their version by blending olive oil, laurel berry oil, and lye and cooling it underground into avocado-green sheets. Remarkably, we still use this method today, a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient wisdom.

Legend even links Cleopatra to the legacy of Aleppo soap, with stories of the Egyptian queen bathing in milk and using the olive oil blend to nourish her skin. Fast-forward to 13^th-century Florence, where Santa Maria Novella, the world’s oldest pharmacy, began as a convent where Dominican monks hand-crafted remedies and soaps using natural ingredients. They produced creations like buttery milk soaps, a tradition that continues today. Infused with patchouli, verbena, or left neutral, these luxurious bars combine ancient monastic craftsmanship with timeless elegance. Experience the legacy of Santa Maria Novella at boutiques in Seoul, Sydney, Miami, or Bangkok, or order online to enjoy this Florentine heritage at home. Their luxurious creations also make perfect gifts for any occasion!

Nostalgia and luxury: soap in the 20th century 

The mid-20^th century brought soap into the cultural spotlight in surprising ways, sparking nostalgia and appreciation for its influence. Brands like Pears and Cussons sponsored radio and TV programs, giving rise to the term “soap operas.” Even the world of high fashion took note—when photographer Cecil Beaton was asked to define elegance, he replied without hesitation: “Soap and water!” It’s easy to imagine Beaton’s muses—Maria Callas, Barbra Streisand, or Baroness Fiona Thyssen-Bornemisza—relaxing after a long day with a rose-scented Dior soap bar. Dior continues this legacy today with its Prestige Le Savon line, a reimagined nod to mid-century luxury.

Around the same time, Diptyque began elevating soap to an art form. Their smooth, glossy bars, embossed with elegant typography, look almost too beautiful to use. Watching the lettering fade with each wash feels bittersweet and poetic—a reminder of life’s fleeting beauty.

Meanwhile, Yardley of London emerged as a quintessential symbol of British refinement. Famous for their lavender soap, Yardley became synonymous with sophistication, gracing the vanities of post-war households. The brand’s floral-scented bars and elegant packaging reflected an enduring charm that bridged nostalgia and modernity. 

Modern artistry: design and functionality in soap 

In recent years, soap has seen a renaissance as a functional product and a design statement, intriguing and appreciative of its versatility. Even artists have explored its potential. In Thomas Barnthaler’s 2015 book Do It Yourself: 50 Projects by Designers and Artists, John Baldessari provided instructions on soap carving in a work titled A Large Piece of Soap Becomes a Small Piece of Soap Eventually. His playful approach reflects the ephemeral nature of soap while elevating it to an art form.

At Salone del Mobile 2024 in Milan, architect Nicolas Schuybroek collaborated with Aesop to create an installation called Form Follows Formulation. Using Aesop’s cleansing slabs as building blocks, Schuybroek crafted a monolithic structure that celebrated simplicity and elegance.

Fashion brands have also embraced soap’s artistic side. Loewe’s Scent of Marihuana bar, for instance, pairs exfoliating red algae with a soothing sativa aroma, complete with a linen rope for decorative display. Meanwhile, French brand Provendi has reimagined wall-mounted soaps as rotating sculptures, combining charm with practicality.

From ancient traditions to modern reinvention, soap transcends serving as a mere cleanser. We marvel at it as a piece of history, a canvas for artistry, and a small luxury that enriches daily life. Symrise, too, drives innovation in the soap category—explore the latest breakthroughs here. Next time you lather up, pause to appreciate its journey, craftsmanship, and the simple joy it brings. While soap may vanish with each use, its allure and impact remain timeless.

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The rugged Cederberg Mountains of South Africa offer the only place on earth where the hardy rooibos shrub thrives. Enduring scorching summers and freezing winters, rooibos, known as “red bush” in Afrikaans, has become a global favorite. Its rich aroma, natural sweetness, and perceived wellness appeal have made it a global favorite in kitchens, rituals, and design.

Beyond its distinctive flavor and uses, rooibos carries a fascinating history and cultural legacy, deeply connected to the Indigenous people of South Africa. From ancient medicinal practices to modern innovations, rooibos continues to inspire and captivate. Curious to learn how this remarkable plant has shaped traditions, industries, and lifestyles? Read on to explore its story!

Exploring the Rooibos route

The Rooibos Route, launched in 2012 by Sanet Stander, offers an engaging way to discover the history and significance of rooibos. Visitors can tour farms, factories, and tea shops while experiencing rooibos creatively. Tink milkshakes, martinis, steak sauces, and also spa treatments.

Highlights include the Wupperthal Original Rooibos Cooperative in the Tra-Tra Valley, where over 70 Indigenous farmers cultivate rooibos on modest plots, harvesting by hand with sickles. The cooperative operates from a 19th-century thatched-roof building, offering insight into traditional farming practices and cultural heritage.

The Ou Tronk Museum in Clanwilliam showcases rooibos’s journey to global prominence. It features antique tools, vintage packaging, and exhibits on its processing history. At Skimmelberg, an organic farm, visitors can watch the transformation of vibrant orange leaves into tea during the fermentation and drying process.

For indulgence, the Carmién Tea Shop near Citrusdal offers wine and tea pairings featuring rooibos paired with small bites for a sophisticated take on this South African staple.

A cultural and historical journey

The history of rooibos is firmly linked with South Africa’s Indigenous people, particularly the San, who first used the plant as medicine. For centuries, they relied on rooibos’s unique polyphenols, such as aspalathin, to help promote health. The San’s cultural legacy also lives on in South Africa’s ancient rock art. At Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve, over 130 rock art sites—some dating back 10,000 years—offer a glimpse into the spiritual world of South Africa’s earliest inhabitants.

While Rooibos enjoyed global success, indigenous farmers historically saw little of its economic benefits. This changed with a significant milestone in 2021, when Rooibos became the first African product to receive “protected designation of origin” status, similar to Champagne in France. This recognition ensures the name “Rooibos” remains exclusive to South Africa and formally acknowledges Indigenous farmers as traditional knowledge holders. Community trusts now receive 1.5% of the annual raw Rooibos sales, funding development and aid projects to secure a sustainable future for these communities.

Rooibos today: health benefits and modern uses

In skincare, Rooibos’s antioxidants can potentially help signs of aging, combat free radicals, and enhance skin elasticity. Brands like African Extracts Rooibos and African Botanics incorporate rooibos into facial creams and serums, while spas along the Rooibos Route offer rooibos-infused scrubs and massages. Everyday products like Terres d’Afrique Gentle Facial Scrub benefit homes worldwide.

Culinary uses highlight rooibos’s earthy, slightly sweet flavor. Chefs enhance marinades, desserts like panna cotta, and sauces with rooibos. Tea brands such as Teekanne and Eleven O’Clock offer premium blends, while Twinings of London features Pure Rooibos Red Tea pods for Keurig. Ready-to-drink options like BOS Iced Tea and Rooibos-infused craft beers showcase its versatility.

Rooibos’s influence extends to fashion and design. Pantone’s Rooibos Tea” color (Pantone 18-1355 TCX), a rich, earthy tone, evokes warmth and natural beauty. This shade aligns with interior design trends, creating cozy and inviting spaces.

From its medicinal roots to its role in beauty, cuisine, and design, rooibos continues to inspire innovation and cultural significance. Its legacy honors the traditions of South Africa’s Indigenous people while adapting to modern tastes and trends. Whether enjoyed as a tea, embraced in skincare, or admired in design, rooibos continues as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and tradition. How will you incorporate rooibos into your routine? Comment below and share your thoughts!

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Valentine’s Day 2025 celebrates love in every form. Around the globe, people express affection, friendship, and admiration. Some send heartfelt messages to friends, family, and partners. Others surprise loved ones with flowers, candy, or creative cards. You may consider planning a romantic dinner! Valentine’s Day highlights unique traditions that reflect the vibrant diversity of cultures worldwide.

In Estonia, friends exchange thoughtful gifts, candles, and cards. In Wales, couples honor Saint Dwynwen, the patron saint of lovers, with beautifully carved wooden love spoons. South Korea shines a spotlight on singles with “Black Day,” where friends gather to enjoy black bean noodles. Ghana transforms the day into National Chocolate Day, celebrating the cocoa industry with tastings, dinners, and festive events. The Philippines hosts grand weddings, uniting hundreds of couples in love.

Across South America, couples savor the occasion with intimate romantic dinners in countries like Argentina, Peru, Russia, and Colombia. No matter where you celebrate, Valentine’s Day reminds everyone to cherish the people who matter most. How will you make February 14 memorable this year?

Bridget plays cupid globally

Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy will start in theaters internationally on February 12, 2025, and in the United States on February 13, 2025. France will open on February 12, Argentina, Australia, Denmark on February 13, and the United Kingdom on February 14. The highly anticipated rom-com sequel (nine years since the third in the series) will be available to stream exclusively on Peacock in the United States. Nine previous cast members will reprise their roles in this story, which now finds Bridget widowed in her fifties, navigating the love of their child, and finding love again. Her bravery and devil-may-care attitude have inspired others before!

Rihanna sends hearts to all

The singer’s brand, Savage X Fenty, released a collection of lingerie, sleepwear, lounge, and accessories, highlighting love in all forms. The accompanying Love Your Way campaign stars the singer alongside Love Is Blind’s Serena Page and Kordell Beckham, model RJ King, and chef DeVonn Francis. It also features sisters, TikTok sensations Hayley and Jules LeBlanc, and friends and models Jade Gordon, Minami Gessel, and Noni Cyngor. The campaign’s imagery highlights romantic love, self-love, familial love, and the beauty of friendship. “Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love in all its forms,” says Rihanna. “At Savage X Fenty, we’re all about embracing love in every way and creating products that let people feel confident while doing so.” Check out a few standouts from the collection and shop the full Love Your Way drop at savagex.com.

Chocolates or fragrance?

Now, we can help you with choosing the right thing! Two traditional Valentine’s gift ideas come together in Lush’s 2025 Valentine’s Day fragrance collection, which smells like chocolate. Perfume can serve as a great Valentine’s Day gift because it can connect to emotions and create memories. A fragrance that reflects the recipient’s personality and taste can be especially meaningful. Speaking of taste, Bath & Body Works announced a Valentine’s collaboration with iconic Sweethearts candy! Dior speaks to luxury packaging being the lure for their Valentine’s offerings, while Armani mesmerizes with Sì EDP Intense fragrance. The key notes of black tea, rose, vanilla, and blackcurrant come together to create a memorable Valentine’s entrance —or exit!

Symrise believes Valentine’s Day offers the perfect time to treat yourself and your loved ones. Weigh in and let us know how you plan to embrace love in all forms!

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Have you wondered why you seem to encounter Irish culture everywhere right now? Ireland is experiencing a major moment, from cinema and theatre to television, folk music, and literature. If you need more to get convinced, listen to the Colin McEnroe podcast, where he confesses to being among the last people to notice this cultural surge.

This fascination with all things Irish may tie to Culture 2025, Ireland’s first national cultural policy framework. The initiative focuses on revitalizing Gaeltacht areas where people speak Irish, supporting the use of their native language in everyday life, and promoting traditional culture globally. The framework also aims to gain international recognition for Ireland’s unique cultural traditions while protecting and celebrating its natural habitats and biodiversity. Ireland is trending for a good reason. It is setting the stage for a thoughtful and strategic cultural renaissance that will capture the world.

Outreach is vital for Ireland, and the country is making bold moves to expand its global presence. The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, along with other Government Ministers, launched ‘Global Ireland—Ireland’s Global Footprint to 2025.’’ This ambitious plan includes opening flagship hubs like Ireland House in Los Angeles, which serves as a center for diplomacy, trade, business, and cultural promotion.

Ireland is actually going further than that. Its presence in Asia-Pacific is growing, with a new flagship Ireland House open in Tokyo. At the same time, the country is strengthening its ties in North and West Africa, the Middle East, and the Gulf regions. This shift goes beyond traditional aid efforts, focusing on forging fresh partnerships and building lasting connections.

The creative boom of ‘Irishness’

When was the moment Ireland became cool? Derry Girls hit Netflix in December 2018, introducing a global audience to Northern Ireland’s ’90s pop-culture ephemera. A few months later, Sally Rooney’s Normal People arrived in the U.S. When The Banshees of Inisherin was released in 2022, a full-on Irish cultural invasion got underway. Actors Colin Farrell and Cillian Murphy returned to the spotlight, while Barry Keoghan went from art-film weirdo to pop-star boyfriend. Last year, we saw 14 Irish Oscar nominations, including Paul Mescal for Aftersun. Eve Hewson and Saoirse Ronan are dominating recently celebrated films. Call them the Craic Pack: Authors such as Anna Burns and Paul Lynch won major prizes, and singer-songwriter Hozier enjoyed great popularity. Brands got swept up, and to call yourself an Instagram baker you got to extol the virtues of Kerrygold butter!

Ayo Edibiri, an American actress from The Bear, joked about playing the donkey in Banshees of Inisherin in interviews. Internet fans claimed that she was Irish and happily ran with this gag. “It seems like a reflection of this moment where everyone loves Ireland,” says Heather Schwedel, a writer on the US politics and culture website Slate, “even this American person is pretending Irish origin.” Little Black Book, The team at THINKHOUSE explores the palpable growing energy evident around a revival of ‘Irishness’ right now.

Why people are trying to “split the ‘G’”

Everyone seems to be drinking Guinness! The beer of Irish pubs and Irish men has endeared itself to Americans eager to “split the ‘G.’” The term speaks to an online trend where drinkers gulp Guinness, hoping that the horizon between the stout and the foam falls in the middle of the “G” on a branded pint glass. It seems like everyone — the Jonas Brothers, John Cena, your cousin, has been splitting the “G.” One Boston bar told the New York Times that it increased its Guinness order by 63% from last year to meet demand.

Need a reason to visit Ireland in 2025?

Courtesy of Ireland.com, we are recommending their 25 reasons to visit Ireland in 2025, from matchmaking in February to spa life and dining. National Geographic included Cork City in their Best of the World list for 2025. Get yourself to Lough Erne in the Fermanagh Lakelands, named one of Lonely Planet’s Most Relaxing Destinations in the World for 2025. Speaking of relaxing, you can go car-free in Ireland, enjoying the wilds of Donegal, the thatched cottages of Adare, the sands of Dunmore East, and much more! 

Symrise operates in over 150 countries and celebrates its current focus on all things Irish. Comment below on how you plan to join, especially before St. Patrick’s Day!

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Were you born in the year of the snake? If your birth year falls on 2025, 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, 1953, 1941, or 1929, you belong to one of the most fascinating signs in the Chinese zodiac! The snake symbolizes wisdom, charm, elegance and transformation. People born under this sign often get celebrated for their intuition, strategic thinking and intelligence.

In the Chinese zodiac, the snake comes sixth among the 12 animals. Each year of the snake features its unique element. And 2025 brings us the Year of the Wood Snake. Starting on January 29, 2025 (Chinese New Year) and lasting until February 16, 2026 (Chinese New Year’s Eve), the wood element highlights relationships, personal growth and the ability to overcome challenges. These qualities promise a year filled with steady progress and meaningful connections. Are you feeling curious about how to embrace the positive energy of 2025? Read on to explore the opportunities this transformative year holds!

Traditions, customs & festivities

Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or the Spring Festival, belongs to one of the world’s most widely celebrated and culturally significant holidays. Leading up to festivities, families clean their homes thoroughly to “sweep away” any bad luck accumulated over the past year. Families come together for the Reunion Dinner on New Year’s Eve, enjoying dishes like dumplings and spring rolls for wealth, fish for abundance, and sticky rice cakes for prosperity. Modern celebrations may incorporate oranges and tangerines for good fortune, longevity noodles for long life, and whole chickens to symbolize family unity. On New Year’s Day, elders often follow the tradition to give red envelopes (hongbao) filled with money to younger family members as a gesture of good luck and blessings. Celebrations culminate with the Lantern Festival on the 15th day, a vibrant night-time celebration where families carry lanterns of all shapes, colors, and sizes. Reds, purples, maroons, oranges, and gold are worn and used for decorations to enhance prosperity, as seen in Burberry’s New Year’s collection! 

Lucky colors to wear in 2025

In addition to these warm shades, much like the popularity of Wicked, green remains a signature color of the enigmatic Wood Snake. Calming, natural shades of green symbolize the Snake’s spirit and energy. Accessories offer a perfect way to incorporate greens, including Toteme’s sharp slingback pump or Simone Rocha’s multi-hued ring. Brown, in keeping with Pantone’s Color of the Year Mocha Mousse, embodies the grounding essence of the Wood element. Try Cult Gaia’s Paloma Bronze clutch or Dries Van Noten’s gorgeous brown earrings. Snake motifs and faux skin patterns often echo earthy shades, as seen in these walkable snake pumps. On Instagram, MAC Cosmetics recently showcased their limited-edition Lunar New Year collection with snakeskin embossing, colors, and holographic packaging!

Celebratory collaborations

If you are wondering how else to celebrate, try raising a glass! In addition to MAC, the world of fine liquors offers plenty of limited-edition releases, collaborating with global artists. Glenfiddich offers “A Gift for Great Encounters,” showcasing exclusive designs by contemporary ink artist Zhang Yu across their premium whisky range. In a fusion of fashion and luxury, Maison Hennessy released a’ Reimagination’ collection, all about renewal and positive transformation, leaving behind the past and embracing new beginnings. Vibrant, abstract interpretations of a snake writhe across the carafe designs, using ancient Chinese brocade patterns as inspiration to reflect the texture and scales of the snake’s body. 

The House of Rémy Martin has invited celebrated Chinese artist Huang Yuxing to create new artwork, as seen in their video, Majestic Serpentine, to welcome the new zodiac sign. Johnnie Walker has revealed a limited-edition Blue Label design, with a new bottle featuring artwork by Taiwanese-American visual artist James Jean. “The snakes are constantly growing, transforming, and adapting to changing conditions,” he says. For young and old alike, Disney California’s Lunar New Year festival (January 17 to February 16) returns with food and beverages, music, and snakes — eek!

Symrise realizes Lunar New Year celebrations with colors, foods and festivities inspire people worldwide. The new year inspires optimism as we share meals, light lanterns, and welcome blessings and opportunities. Weigh in below and let us know how you plan to ring in the Lunar New Year!

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We have entered 2025, and food has evolved into so much more than what we eat—it’s become a lifestyle, an art form, and, for some, a status symbol! Gone are the days when meals just meant nutrition or comfort. Today, every bite, sip, and snack tells a story about who we are, what we value, and how we lead our lives.

Food now stars in the stories we tell about ourselves. Scroll through Instagram, and you’ll see it everywhere: from London’s @laurakhoshaba, who documents Harrods’ decadent food halls, to the US duo @sistersnacking, sampling jaw-dropping $227 Ballerina Farm pastries. These meals mean so much more than just food. They are forming memory-making moments! They’re aspirational, meticulously curated, and almost too beautiful to eat.

Even the once-humble chicken salad has experienced rebranding. Bethenny Frankel, the mastermind behind Skinnygirl, has made a project to critique this staple’s “elite” versions, diving into the fine line between simple and special. Meanwhile, everyday people are finding ways to elevate their daily meals. Office workers like @jensintec and @MeganKittyEats turn their cafeteria spreads into envy-inducing reels, while college student @gliocius transforms basic campus fare into culinary inspiration. This conveys a clear message: food serves as your canvas no matter who you are!

Erewhon: where groceries become couture

If one brand captures the spirit of food as status, then we need to talk about Erewhon. This LA-based luxury grocery chain has redefined what it means to shop for groceries. A $20 smoothie here would feel neglected if you called it a drink. It offers you a badge of belonging to a particular lifestyle. With sleek stores, meticulously curated products, and an Instagram aesthetic that screams exclusivity, Erewhon has created a place where shopping feels like an event. Even the grocer’s kraft paper tote bags have achieved cult status, becoming so coveted they’re resold on eBay and inspiring chic, eco-friendly reusable versions—reminiscent of Trader Joe’s reusable mini tote bags, which have gained similar notoriety for their practicality and collectible charm.

Surprisingly, Erewhon’s revenue per square foot achieves four times the amount of the grocery industry average. People are buying so much more than groceries. They’re buying into a story, a vibe, a community. Across the pond, the Delli app channels a similar energy, connecting people with boutique food makers and artisan brands. These platforms blur the line between food and fashion—turning dinner into a deliberate act of self-expression.

When fashion and food melt together

Luxury brands have noticed this cultural shift and are leaning into it. Louis Vuitton’s chocolate boutiques in Paris, Shanghai, and Singapore have made chocolate as desirable as their iconic handbags. Collaborations like Michael Kors x BAsDBAN or Miss Dior x Grid Coffee infuse culinary moments with high-fashion flair. Loewe’s heirloom tomato bag—a quirky and coveted accessory—proves that even vegetables can become part of a style statement.

And then let’s talk about the artistry. French floral designer @glenn.arvor adds fresh produce to his stunning arrangements, creating pieces that feel alive, organic, and earthy. New Zealand’s Amy Yip turns cakes into sculptures that look more at home in a gallery than a dessert table. Meanwhile, Japan’s @ika_miniature takes “tiny food” to new heights, crafting intricate replicas that make you pause and marvel. These playful trends remind us that food can move, surprise, and deeply connect us.

Why food matters more than ever

This obsession with food offers valuable extras to aesthetics and indulgence. It creates a connection. Food has become a way to ground ourselves in a volatile world. Whether you buy yourselves a $20 Erewhon smoothie or a homemade tomato salad, something feels comforting about the shared rituals of eating, celebrating, and creating.

This also happens with the recent rise of vegetable-inspired fragrances (tomato leaf, anyone?), which echo a similar longing for natural, nostalgic, and unexpected pleasures. Food and fragrance are merging, breaking boundaries to offer fresh ways to share our stories and connect. As food evolves into art and identity, what you put on your plate may rival what you put in your closet or on your wrist. The meals we share and the treats we post are delicious—and a way to define ourselves! Let us know about your favorite snack or meal to share with friends. Comment below! 

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