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Rhodes

<p>Anyone who has ever had the chance to experience the beautiful island of Rhodes usually comes back with the same response: In comparison to other Dodecanese and Greek islands, Rhodes kind of has it all.</p>
<p>And I fully get it - somehow, the island encapsulates the essence of Greece, offering a harmonious blend of history, natural beauty, and the warmth of its people, making it a destination that resonates with travellers seeking both cultural enrichment and relaxation.</p>
<p>Nestled in the heart of the Aegean Sea, Rhodes stands as a testament to the country’s enduring allure, which is why people just keep coming back to the island, including myself!</p>
<p>It’s a travel destination for both young and old, for adventure seekers as well as relaxation gurus, for history fanatics as well as modern nightlife seekers.</p>
<p>If you’re already considering your next holiday, this vibrant island should be on your radar - and I’ve got the top ten things you shouldn’t miss during your visit!</p>

<h1>1. Rhodes Old Town</h1>
<p>There’s just something about Rhodes Old Town that puts it right at the top of this list, although this article isn’t necessarily meant to be a rating. First and foremost, the Old Town is a living museum of medieval architecture. Enclosed by imposing fortifications, the cobblestone streets are lined with well-preserved medieval buildings including palaces, churches and houses, providing a unique glimpse into the island's rich history.</p>

<p>We usually go to the Old Town at night, when the sun is just setting on the day, providing a romantic glow to the historic surroundings. Filled with picturesque restaurants, shops and little boutiques where you can find unique gifts and traditional jewellery, visiting Rhodes’ Old Town truly is as charming as it gets.</p>

<p>Kallithea Springs, the historic thermal springs on the east coast of the island, offers a truly unique experience as I find. Originally known for their therapeutic properties, visitors can enjoy the beautifully restored Italian-style buildings of the springs, lush gardens and impressive architecture. </p>

<p>The area also provides stunning views of the Aegean Sea, making it a picture-perfect location to unwind and explore (and even go snorkelling). Whether you seek relaxation, historical charm, or natural beauty, Kallithea Springs offers a compelling blend of these elements for a lovely visit.</p>

<h1>3. Faliraki Town &amp; Beach</h1>
<p>Faliraki - the fun part of Rhodes - is a popular destination for various reasons, particularly its town center and long beaches.</p>
<p>Faliraki boasts a long and sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, which makes it the perfect spot to combine a beach day with some shopping and entertainment. It’s simply a great place to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy various water sports and activities.</p>

<p>Besides its lively and vibrant nightlife including numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants, you can find lots of beautiful souvenirs in the town and I’ve always found strolling around the centre after sunset extremely special.</p>
<p>Faliraki is also home to one of the largest water parks in Europe, the WaterPark (more on that later). It's a fantastic attraction for families and thrill-seekers alike, offering a wide range of water slides and attractions. You get the picture - you definitely will not get bored spending a day in Faliraki!</p>

<h1>4. Tsambika Beach</h1>
<p>While I love Faliraki’s beaches, they can get really busy! Which is why I personally prefer the incredible gem - and in my opinion the best beach on the whole island - that is Tsambika Beach. </p>
<p>This one is still kind of unpopular, just because not many people don’t know about it yet! Tsambika Beach has by far the most golden sandy shores and clear blue waters that I have seen on this island - which makes it the perfect destination for a relaxed and calm beach day. </p>
<p>The good thing is that the beach is enclosed by high cliffs and there are no hotels around, so you enjoy a bit of an exclusivity relaxing on this beach. At the same time, there are lovely restaurants, bars and any amenities nearby you might need to spend a comfortable and tranquil day at the beach.</p>

<h1>5. Monolithos Castle</h1>
<p>Monolithos Castle, perched atop a rugged hill on the west side of the island, provides incredible panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Aegean Sea, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.</p>

<p>Approaching Monolithos Castle, the local produce shop located just a few hundred metres before the castle’s carpark, is a wonderful stop to stock up on some typically Greek goods such as traditional Greek delicacies, artisanal products, and souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of the region, supporting local businesses while enjoying the freshest produce. I can recommend the sweet pistachio spread and Erica honey!</p>

<h1>6. Lindos &amp; Acropolis</h1>
<p></p>
<p>Lindos, the Santorini of Rhodes as I like to call it. But Lindos doesn’t need any comparison! Nestled on the mid-East Coast, Lindos is a captivating destination with its charming white-washed buildings, and narrow cobblestone street.</p>
<p>The Acropolis, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, is a testament to Lindos' historical importance, featuring ancient ruins and breathtaking views.</p>

<p>I would recommend hiking up to the Acropolis in the early morning or late afternoon, as the heat will be more manageable on your way up.</p>
<p>Equally, Lindos is home to beautiful beaches, such as Lindos Beach and St. Paul's Bay, providing opportunities for relaxation, swimming, and water activities in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, especially after you broke a sweat up at the Acropolis!</p>

<h1>7. Prasonisi Beach</h1>
<p>Whether you're an avid windsurfer, a nature lover, or someone who simply appreciates unique landscapes, Prasonisi Beach provides a one-of-a-kind experience that combines thrilling water activities with the serenity of a remote coastal environment.</p>
<p>Located on the very southern tip of Rhodes, Prasonisi is a natural marvel where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean. The beach is a narrow strip of land with water on both sides, creating an unusual and interesting landscape.</p>

<p><strong>Th</strong>e beach's unique geography allows you to experience two different seas in one location. On one side, the water is calm and suitable for swimming, while on the other, the waves and wind create an exciting environment for water sports.</p>
<p>Understandably, Prasonisi is renowned as one of the top windsurfing and kitesurfing spots in Europe. The consistent strong winds and favorable conditions make it an ideal playground for water sports enthusiasts of all levels.</p>

<p>Rhodes has a long-standing tradition of ceramic craftsmanship. Exploring the ceramic factories allows you to witness skilled artisans at work and connect with the island's heritage while enjoying the beauty of locally crafted ceramics.</p>
<p>The ceramic factories produce a wide range of locally crafted ceramics, including decorative items, dinnerware, and unique souvenirs. Purchasing these items not only supports local businesses but also provides you with authentic and handcrafted mementos of your Rhodes visit.</p>

<p>Many ceramic factories also offer guided tours or demonstrations, providing visitors with an educational experience. You can learn about the entire process of creating ceramics, from shaping and molding to firing and glazing.</p>

<h1>9. Butterfly Valley (Petaloudes)</h1>
<p>This place is an absolute must-visit every time I come to this beautiful island. Whether you're interested in observing butterflies, taking a leisurely walk, or simply enjoying the serenity of nature, the Butterfly Valley offers a tranquil escape.</p>
<p>Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, lush greenery and serene river, the peaceful ambiance of Butterfly Valley makes it an ideal place for relaxation and reflection.</p>
<p>During the summer months, thousands of the famous Jersey Tiger Moth butterflies cover the trees, creating a magical and ethereal atmosphere. Observing this natural phenomenon is a rare and awe-inspiring sight, so you should definitely go if you can!</p>
<p></p>
<h1>10. Water Park Faliraki</h1>
<p>Last but not least, one of the most fun things you can experience when visiting Rhodes: The Water Park Faliraki in Rhodes offers a thrilling and family-friendly experience with its diverse water attractions, including slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools. It's a perfect destination for a fun-filled day, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages, from exhilarating rides for thrill-seekers to more relaxed areas for those looking to unwind. </p>
<p>The park's well-maintained facilities, vibrant atmosphere, and a wide range of water activities make it a refreshing and enjoyable addition to your Rhodes itinerary.</p>

Magma makes every moment matter. Create digital, mini-magazines to share your life’s greatest experiences.

Beaches, bars, history, culture, nature, fun - Rhodes has it all. If you’ve already been to this Mediterranean diamond and plan on going again and need some more inspiration, or if the island has just recently landed on your travel radar, here are 10 Rhodes tips that’ll convince you to book those flights asap! Thank you for reading.  — @undefined's mag on Magma

Wellness

Portugal

<p>I enter a meditative state as I watch the giant waves crash onto the cliffs in front of me, one by one, each new set arriving on shore like clockwork. It is my third day visiting Portugal and although it is October already, the sun is beating down on me, not yet ready to let fall take over.</p>
<p>A voice behind me pulls me out of my daydreaming. An elderly lady approaches me from a few metres behind, accompanied by a gentle golden retriever.</p>
<p>In a Portuguese accent, she chuckles: “Oh Lord, that surfer out there! The conditions today are really not ideal.” “Oh...”, I start mumbling, unsure what to respond, trying to find the tiny dot of a surfer she has spotted in the distance.</p>
<p>Her facial expressions soften: “Oh well.. Don’t worry about him. Somehow they always turn out fine! It’s the thrill for them, you know? My husband used to go out there all the time.” She tells me they have always lived close to the beach here in the small town of Aljezur, appreciating the slow pace of life with their dog Leila.</p>

<p>Again, I think to myself how beautifully welcoming and warm the Portuguese people have been so far. She asks me whether it is my first time in Portugal and I tell her about my recent journey and stay in <em>Albufeira</em>. She gently rolls her eyes at me: “So you are visiting the South Algarve then?”</p>

<p>“Yes,” I respond, slightly taken aback by her straightforwardness, “the South has long been on my list of places to visit, but this beach was recommended to me and I had some spare time.” I try to read her mind. </p>

<p>She nods slowly. A few moments later, she turns towards me and gives me a soft pat on my shoulder: “Well I’m so glad we met - we don’t see as many people from abroad here on the West Coast. Everyone always flocks to the South Algarve, which makes sense of course! The water is a lot better for swimming.” I look at her as she hesitates. “But...?”</p>

<p>“Well...” she continues, “this right here is Portugal, you know? The endlessly wide beaches. The coastlines with not a single soul in sight at times. I think it’s the more spiritual, more serene side of Portugal, which most people don’t see. Anyway, have a lovely time, my dear!”</p>
<p>I watch as the lady walks back up the stairs to the car park of <em>Praia da Amoreira</em>, quickly vanishing behind a large truck.</p>
<p>I turn around and look at the beach spreading out before me. Upon my arrival in Portugal, I hired a car at Faro airport and had planned to spend my time exploring the south of the Algarve only. Driven by promising pictures of the <em>Benagil Caves </em>and the stunning rock formations of <em>Ponta da Piedade</em>, I knew this was where I wanted to make use of my valuable time.</p>
<p>But what the lady had just mentioned had struck a chord with me. After two days of covering most things that had been on my list, I had already grown somewhat tired of following the beaten path, ticking off classic ‘bucket-list’ experiences. I craved something.. well.. LESS advertised.</p>

<p>Back at my rental, I decide to bury my initial plans. I pull up Google Maps on my phone, determined to make the most out of my three remaining days. Inspired by our warm encounter, I drive up to the centre of <em>Aljezur</em>, a small coastal town characterised by its Moorish castle, built in 10th century.</p>

<p>I notice a small café on the side of a street made of cobblestones and decide to sit down for a bit. The owner of the café, who is about my age, brings me a mouth-watering waffle garnished with fresh fruit. He tells me he’s been living in <em>Aljezur </em>for most of his adult life and thinks it is the most charming spot in the whole country.</p>

<p>Back at the hotel after a 1.5-hour drive, I let the memories of the day settle, grateful for the lady’s nudge to rethink my itinerary.</p>
<p>In the morning, I pack some lunch after breakfast and to my delight, the hotel owner hands me two traditional <em>Pastel de Nata </em>to enjoy on my drive back to the west coast. I devour them before I‘ve even started the engine.</p>
<p>—</p>
<p>I arrive at the <em>Praia da Bordeira </em>car park just after lunch. I press my entire body against the car's door as the ferocious winds are trying hard to keep me inside the vehicle. Looking around, rugged limestone cliffs rise to my left and right, leaving me wondering how far I still am from the actual beach.</p>
<p>I hurry to keep pace with a group of people in front of me, making their way to the beach, jumping over what seems to be a shallow lagoon. As I learn from the group, walking up to the <em>Praia da Bordeira </em>inevitably leads you along this small river bordering the beach of Bordeira (the <em>Ribeira da Bordeira</em>), ultimately ending up in the ocean.</p>

<p>I climb up the wooden stairs on the left side of the bay and am rewarded with an astounding view of the almost three-kilometre-long beach. Above our heads, seagulls are circling, waiting for the perfect opportunity to secure some leftovers.</p>

<p>The day before my return flight, I set off from Faro to one last stop on the West Coast. I can’t help but appreciate the smaller size of the country, making the drive between the South Algarve and the West Coast just two hours long.</p>

<p>I take a long last walk on the golden sands of the <em>Praia do Castelejo</em>, waiting for the sun to slowly set down on us. I go back to the car and drive up the mountains, back to the main road.</p>
<p>But instead of turning left to the motorway, I leave the village of <em>Vila do Bispo </em>behind me and cautiously make my way up the gravel road to <em>Torre de Aspa</em>. For a moment, I doubt my rental’s capacity to make it without popping a tyre, but eventually, I arrive at the highlight of my 6-day trip.</p>
<p>I am able to park the car close to the cliff’s edge, my eyes already running wild in both directions of the lookout, trying to grasp the immensity of what lies before me. It is surprisingly calm and the roaring ocean below looks entirely peaceful and quiet from up here.</p>
<p>I watch the colours of the sky turn blue as the sun sets over this slice of Portuguese West Coast, only to rise again in the morning.</p>

<p>As I make my way back to the airport in Faro on the day after, I feel a sense of calm. I can’t help but wonder what the lady I had met had thought of our conversation after we parted ways. A wave of gratitude washes over me.</p>

<p>As the plane touches down in London, I overhear a friendly, elderly man sitting in the row behind me say to his wife: “What a beautiful holiday! The South is just the absolute best Portugal has to offer.” I look out of the plane window at the tarmac, subtly rolling my eyes, smiling to myself. </p>

<p><strong>Tips for visiting the Algarve and the South West</strong></p>
<p><strong>West Coast Beaches:</strong></p>
<p>While the beaches of the South Algarve - with their golden sand and cove-like shapes - are among the most popular ones in Portugal for swimming and family holidays, the West Coast is not only a paradise for surfers of all levels, but a not-to-miss destination for travellers who rather enjoy going off the grid.</p>
<p>Endless beaches backed by dramatic cliffs and sand dunes invite visitors to get lost in the freeing feeling the West Coast conveys, and to appreciate life as nature serves as a gentle reminder to stay present.</p>
<p><strong>The best West Coast beaches for travellers:</strong></p>
<p><strong>• </strong>Praia de Odeceixe (Odeceixe)<br>• Praia da Amoreira (Aljezur)<br>• Praia do Castelejo (Vila do Bispo) • Praia da Bordeira (Bordeira)</p>
<p>What you need to know:</p>
<p>Getting here: To explore the West Coast, you can best fly into Faro Airport. Alternatively, travellers can fly to Lisbon and go down south.</p>
<p>Getting around: If you want to explore flexibly, renting a car is definitely the easiest way to do so. Beware of toll fees though! Portugal has a toll road system and fees need to be paid before leaving the country. The public transport network will connect you to the major cities and special bus shuttles can get you to remote locations too.</p>
<p>Your stay: The Algarve offers lovely hotels and charming AirBnBs. If you can get around easily, you can essentially stay anywhere. Make sure to book in advance!</p>
<p>Highlights: If you travel by car, stop at one of the iconic ceramics warehouses. Pottery and ceramics is a typically Portuguese craft and you might find some pieces to take home with you as keepsakes.</p>

Visiting Portugal for the first time was a truly magical experience. Besides the typical beach vacation most holiday-goers aim for, the country enchants you with breathtaking nature and endless coastlines, waiting to be explored. Thank you for reading! 🤍 — @undefined's mag on Magma

Books

<p>Sensations</p>
<p>Blissful feelings or thoughts there of</p>
<p></p>
<p> I opened my eyes and there you laid directly next to me eyes shut in the most relaxed state. You looked peaceful, I tried not to bother you although my love language got the best of me. You opened your eyes and I asked how you got into my home. You opened the door for me when I called he said. I leaned down to kiss your lips and the universe exploded. There were stars and fairy dust all over. Every action that came to follow my body had been yearning for. We touched, kissed and orgasmed our way to ecstasy and you stayed the course. “I know you missed this dick” you whispered as I mounted you trying to insert that dick in me as you simultaneously flipped me and without a try inserted me. My back arched instantly even from the missionary position we were in. We jumped around on that bed for hours or what seemed to be. when I woke up it was only me, no signs or traces that you had ever been there, we were in another realm making each other holler😩</p>

<h1>Bridges burned </h1>
<p>Lighters and matches oh my</p>
<p></p>
<p>I have crossed some bridges just as I set the flame 🔥 </p>
<p>before moving on I’d always stop and  speak intentions into the flame, </p>
<p>most for the future. </p>
<p>I’ve buried some stones and some </p>
<p>other things I won’t name. </p>
<p></p>

<h1>Last of a dying breed</h1>
<p>80’s birthed me 90’s raised me</p>
<p></p>
<p>I could chew you up In a post for the world to see. Tag ya handle so there’s no misinterpretations of me talking behind your back. Good thing for you is I ain’t built like that! For certain that’s no bad thing standards are a must. They tell the story different when they are healed is what the post said as he was leaking his own blood all over hims mommas tiled basement floors. Steady poking at folks indirectly in the blind spots where he think they can’t see. I vibrate higher I am more always at the top peering over. Thank God this shit is over. </p>

<h1>Sensations ✌🏽</h1>
<p>These feelings be feeling</p>
<p></p>
<p>Now just me being up at this hour! </p>
<p>A couple shots of royal and quarter L later </p>
<p>La la la la</p>
<p>All American and commercials</p>
<p>I’m feeling like this is rehearsal </p>
<p>A flic of the bic and a prayer to the flame</p>
<p>A hit of the flower that intoxicates my brain</p>
<p>Numbs the pain </p>
<p>Story here</p>
<p>Work I know doesn’t make it a story</p>
<p>It’s the glory….</p>
<p>No victim it’s the victorer</p>
<p>Means the one that holds the title</p>
<p>Means the one that over came</p>
<p>Steady crying dead and broke figured out how to be the money and the power</p>
<p>Mind in motion head steady focused </p>
<p>So much movement don’t know what to do what with it</p>
<p>Too personal</p>
<p>Bad connection or is it perception </p>
<p>Such a big deal why not take a photo to help reflect it</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>

<p>Silence is needed</p>
<p>Sshhhhhhh</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>Shhhhhhh</p>
<p>There’s a noise that plays in my ears every time you come near</p>
<p>Reminds me of the sound that played on the television in the wee hours of the night when I was a little tike </p>
<p>Can’t hear much else</p>
<p>Blocks out all the thoughts that ever were there in the first place</p>
<p>There’s this noise </p>
<p>And it’s starting to make me annoyed</p>
<p>Can’t hold a thought all on count of it</p>
<p>Much rather do without it</p>
<p>Could care less then to be annoyed </p>
<p>Time to dead the noise</p>

<br /><br />Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@benjeeeman?utm_source=magma&utm_medium=referral">Ben den Engelsen</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=magma&utm_medium=referral">Unsplash</a> — @undefined's mag on Magma

@alexacasale's mag on Magma

Israel

<h1>Israel Summer 22</h1>
<p>Since we booked last minute, we had no other choice than to fly with LOT airlines. We normally take El Al but due to last minute bookings we had no other option. The flight was great, however the time of arrival was a pain in the ass having a 1.5 year old with us. BUT, Asher was a trooper! We landed at 4am….brutal. </p>
<p>First stop, borekahs! </p>
<p>Second stop, visiting Clara’s sister and family. </p>
<p>Third stop, visiting my buddy Nathan who was visiting from LA as well. </p>

<h1>Let the photo dump begin!</h1>
<h1>Until next time ✌🏼</h1>
<h1>————— &gt;</h1>

Israel Summer 22 - Photo Dump  — @undefined's mag on Magma

Vlogging

Tokyo

<p><strong>Do you know where is TOKYO located ? </strong></p>

<p>Tokyo is located in the middle of Japan and it’s the biggest city in the country. You can feel traditional culture also modern culture. If you come to Japan, you would get everything you want in the city! </p>
<p>What do you image when you hear “TOKYO” or “JAPAN” ? Maybe it would be “ANIME” stuff or “JAPANESE FOOD” or “SAMURAI” ? yes they are! But not only them! </p>

Tokyo life, tokyo experience, first Mag — @undefined's mag on Magma

Entertainment

Poetry

Los Angeles

<h1><strong>Falling Away From You</strong></h1>
<h2>As the scene escaped the hands of time, I stood frozen in awe as the ground beneath me shook violently. Never mind the sense of dread I felt in the moment, I was awake in a dream and caught between the seams of reality, tearing at the fabric that is my sanity. What is this? As my breath escapes me I think to my self, “am I going crazy” this can’t be real it’s hazy but the resemblance is, wait, the world around me is amazing. </h2>
<h2>My experience with lucid dreaming has led me down some interesting experiences. This world we experience collectively sits atop of another, one that’s neither ordered or chaos, just flowing. This flow inevitably recycles its way to our surface reality where we experience it objectively through our senses, little do we know what lies beneath. </h2>

@straitwarpeddreams's mag on Magma

Dining

Food

Grand Velas

<p><em>Phone eats first, am I right?!!</em></p>
<p><em>Our family’s favorite vacation spot is Grand Velas in Puerto Vallarta. This year we spent Thanksgiving there, filled with lots and lots of food, join me on the tour ;)</em></p>

<h1>Believe it or not, our favorite restaurant is an Italian restaurant in our hotel called Luca. This is the best vodka sauce pasta 🍝 I’ve ever had and dream 💭 about it all the time</h1>

Loona - Vamos a la playa OFFICIAL VIDEO

<p>Let’s pause and take a minute to shake off some of the carbs! This is our family theme song in Mexico 🇲🇽 </p>

PV tour de comida <br /><br />Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@miguelnaranjomx?utm_source=magma&utm_medium=referral">Miguel Naranjo</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=magma&utm_medium=referral">Unsplash</a> — @undefined's mag on Magma

London

<h1>London during Christmas?</h1>
<h2>There’s a reason for the hype.</h2>
<p>This year, London has been rated the world’s best city for the sixth year in a row, and looking at what it has to offer especially during this time of year, who’s surprised really?!</p>
<p>Christmas is the most magical time of year to be visiting the world’s most popular capital - with spectacular installations and decorations, happy people skating on ice rinks and festive Christmas markets spread across the city centre, there’s no reason to NOT come for a visit (except maybe Covid travel restrictions..).</p>
<p>While there are numerous things and places to see, do, eat, shop - you name it - I have listed my top 7 favourite spots not to be missed to get into the festive spirit.</p>

<p>With its massive height and beautiful lights, the Christmas tree in the middle of the Covent Garden Piazza has definitely earned its spot on the list!</p>
<p>Buzzing with a wide variety of restaurants, cute cafés and picturesque shops, Covent Garden is one of the greatest places to get a solid first dose of Christmas vibes. </p>
<p>After taking some colourful snaps of the Christmas tree, head to Floral Street and grab a beer or mulled wine at the iconic White Lion pub or enjoy a hot chocolate at French café Le Pain Quotidien right in the middle of the Piazza.</p>
<p>And if you happen to find yourself near the Christmas tree at the full hour, make sure you stay and enjoy Covent Garden’s very own little snow storm: Until the 27th of December, snow will fall hourly between 12pm and 7pm on the West and North Piazza.</p>

<h1>2. Liberty London </h1>
<h2>Don’t miss out on their iconic Christmas Shop!</h2>
<p>London is famous for its many luxury department stores, but your Christmas visit surely isn’t complete without a trip to Liberty’s iconic Christmas Shop on the 4th floor.</p>

<p>Whether you’re looking for a gift, some add-on decoration for your own Christmas tree at home or a souvenir for yourself, the huge variety of shimmering Christmas baubles and unique tree ornaments will not disappoint. </p>
<p>Each year, the shop offers differently themed baubles and ornaments attracting locals and tourists alike. Grab your favourites or simply marvel at the glitz and glamour, Liberty’s Christmas shop is the place to go.</p>

<p>Stepping right outside Charing Cross station, you will find yourself on The Strand, London’s connection between the early twin centres of Westminster and the City of London. </p>
<p>A street with immense historical significance, it doesn’t disappoint with its display of magical, star-shaped Christmas lights either! </p>
<p>Head west and visit the Trafalgar Square’s beautiful Christmas market, or head up The Strand and book yourself a slot to show off those ice skating skills at the ice rink at Somerset House.</p>

<h1>4. Winter Wonderland</h1>
<p>There’s no denying that London is a hub of Christmassy excitement around this time of year, but with its yearly Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, the city truly outdoes itself regularly.</p>
<p>Cancelled in 2020 due to the Covid pandemic for the first time in many years, the 2021 Wonderland is back in its full glory. With breathtaking rides, spectacular shows, a kids-friendly Santaland and its very own Bavarian beer and food village (looking at you, fellow Germans), the park has something in store for literally everyone.</p>
<p>Whether you’re a local or a tourist, swap that stroll or daily jog through Hyde Park for a fun adventure between November and January and enjoy the world’s ultimate Christmas destination. </p>

<h1>5. St. Paul’s Cathedral </h1>
<p>Right in the heart of the City of London, St. Paul’s is waiting to welcome you within its incredibly beautiful and gigantic walls. Whether you’re religious or not, there’s something magical about visiting a building of that size and significance during Christmas time.</p>
<p>Completed in 1708, the Cathedral’s dome is 111 metres high and currently the second largest cathedral dome in the world. Filled with monuments, paintings, galleries, archives and so much more, St. Paul’s really is worth the visit.</p>
<p>And if you’re lucky, you might even bear witness to a heartwarming rehearsal or concert sung by the Choir of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Merry Christmas!</p>

<p>Oh, Carnaby… </p>
<p>Carnaby Street is a happy place for many, and once you see it, you will know why.</p>
<p>Being the capital’s beating heart of London’s fashion scene in the ‘60s, Carnaby is with its numerous flagship stores still very much one of the go-to places for fashion lovers from around the world. </p>
<p>Home to the most beautiful art installations all year round, Carnaby shows off during Christmas even more. And the best part: The installations are usually created to raise awareness for important topics such as climate change or the wellbeing of refugees.</p>
<p>Plus, Carnaby Street is not only a great place for shopping, it is surrounded by the fanciest bars and restaurants, offering drinks and specialties from Hawaii, Asia, Spain and many more countries. A personal favourite? Head to Ugly Dumpling at the corner of Newburgh Street and enjoy the most mouth-watering dumplings you’ve ever tasted. Promise!</p>
<p>So after you’ve taken around a hundred pictures of the street’s stunning seasonal art display, make sure you don’t forget to grab a bite to fill up your energy tanks!</p>

<h1>7. Regent Street</h1>
<p>Finally, Regent Street offers all the glitter and sparkle our hearts could desire. Stretching all the way from Piccadilly Circus up to Oxford Street, Regent Street’s famous Christmas Angels are a true sight for sore eyes.</p>
<p>Named “The Spirit of Christmas”, this display of lights attracts thousands of people every year to enjoy its romantic atmosphere on one of London’s busiest high streets.</p>
<p>To get a good glimpse and a couple of good snaps, head to the narrow central pavement on Regent Street - it’s a lot more quiet there and you will be able to stare up at the lights for a moment without being run over within 0.2 seconds. </p>
<p>With the elegant Regent Street buildings surrounding the sky-rising angels, these lights are probably my favourite ones in London during Christmas.</p>

Still looking for the perfect place to get into the festive spirit? Head no further than London! Our favourite capital is even glitzier during this time of year, and you will return home all jolly and bright! And while you’re sipping on mulled wine anyway, make sure you don’t miss out on these extraordinary spots along the way! 🎄 — @undefined's mag on Magma

Education

Graphic Design

<p>BEACON, NY • LATE 2021 </p>
<h1>—</h1>
<h1>Beacon is a pretty walkable town. For most of my life, I haven’t had that.</h1>
<h2>I didn’t do the typical city thing after college. While most of my friends opted for foreign countries or various urban centers, I went to Poughkeepsie, New York. I lived in a development. It was technically possible to walk into the more interesting parts of the city, but it wasn’t all that fun. Who wants to walk along a busy road for thirty minutes just to get downtown?</h2>
<p>But I always appreciated walkable towns and cities, even though I didn’t live in one. Growing up, I did a lot of traveling with my family, and all we did was walk. When you’re in a foreign city and you don’t want to spend $200/day on taxis, that’s what you do.</p>
<p>And later, when I visited NYC, or any of the small towns scattered around the Hudson area, I’d spend most of my time wandering around, taking photos. Walking gives you a chance to look at things up close.</p>
<h1>—</h1>
<h1>Then there’s walking at night.</h1>
<h2>That wasn’t something I really did until I moved to Beacon. Up to that point, there had been nowhere to <em>go</em>.</h2>
<p>But the thing about living close to the center of a small mid-sized town is that there are always side streets, alleys, and other small routes trickling off to who knows where. I’ve walked five miles some nights with no clear destination in mind, just poking around.</p>
<h2>Other thing: I can <em>think</em> better at night. People are a distraction, filling spaces with noise and confusion. I can’t fully get to know a space until it’s quiet and empty.</h2>

<h2>Beacon is <em>weird, </em>in the way that hipsterish, gentrifying towns generally are: quirky, multilayered, and steeped in its own private jokes. That stuff gets buried under the people during the day; it’s at night when the character of the place really takes form.</h2>

<p>NIGHT WALK</p>
<h1>—</h1>
<h1>People express themselves in strange ways around here.</h1>
<h2>And new stuff gets added all the time. I’m pretty familiar with the stickers on my usual route, and I still find something I haven’t seen before every time I’m out.</h2>
<h2>Mention “local art gallery” and most people will think of Dia. I think the stickers that make up Beacon’s illicit, living wallpaper are the most interesting art around. </h2>

<h1>The street is the gallery.</h1>
<h2>And everyone lays claim to it: punk bands, activists, artists, random crazies, and—more and more—businesses.</h2>
<p>I have a theory that you can judge how interesting a place is by how many stickers are plastered to its signs, lights, electrical boxes. Boring places don’t have stickers. Cool places do.</p>

<h2>It’s easy to get the sense that no one sees this stuff: it’s so omnipresent, so obvious, as to be invisible. You walk down any street, day or night, and look around; I’ll be the only one snapping thirty photos of grungy stickers on an electrical box.</h2>
<h1><em>—</em></h1>
<h2>But people see enough.</h2>
<p>Not too long ago, a hate group I won’t name showed up in the Hudson Valley and plastered their stickers everywhere. I saw those stickers everywhere else—but, strangely enough, not in Beacon.</p>
<p>Turns out those guys did come to Beacon. Someone noticed the stickers; someone told someone else. They scoured the whole town within two hours and removed every one.</p>
<h2>Those guys never came back.</h2>
<h2>Little things matter.</h2>

<h1>Walk around long enough, and keep your eyes open, and you’ll start to see the same people over and over again.</h1>
<h2>Their names, at least. And in at least one notorious instance, sometimes their faces.</h2>

<p>THE CHAMP</p>
<h2>Vinny, patron saint of the Beacon sticker world; Shepard Fairey’s all-city spiritual successor; man-about-town.</h2>
<p>This guy is <em>everywhere</em>. I could easily devote an entire issue to him. He—and, probably, his fans—have plastered various permutations of his face on every piece of street furniture in Beacon. Everywhere you go, he’s staring back: the kind of omnipresence that makes Kim Il-Sung look modest.</p>
<p>Vinny is probably one of the most talented sticker guys out there. He’s always evolving; there are easily twenty different designs of his scattered around the Hudson Valley. </p>
<h1>—</h1>
<p>THE UPSTART</p>
<h2>Bronco Anarchy 99—he’s new here. Trying to make a name for himself, from the looks of it. His thing seems to be tags in white grease pencil.</h2>
<p>I ran into him one night while he was tagging the stop sign in front of my place. He was tall, good-looking, with long black hair and stubble. He was looping out his name in white grease pencil. He had a friend with him—a preppy-looking kid who dressed nice, had a fashionable haircut, and stood there, shifting awkwardly, waiting for him to finish. The kid looked at me uneasily as I went by, probably thinking I was going to call the cops. Anarchy didn’t even look up. </p>
<p>He’s improving. The tag I saw on that stop sign was barely readable, but the more recent ones have been more legible. Not particularly creative, though.</p>
<h1>—</h1>
<p>ALSO STARRING</p>
<h2>The more mysterious ones: SOH, Thundercloud Guy, B.F., and a host of others. What’s their deal? What drives them? Wish I knew.</h2>

<p>CAST &amp; CREW</p>
<h1>—</h1>
<h1>You know what—let’s talk a little more about Vinny.</h1>
<h2>First of all, his name really <em>is</em> Vinny: Vinny Raffa. He’s an electrician. </h2>
<p>Or, perhaps, a working man’s hero. As I said, he’s everywhere. I have a growing collection of Vinny photos, and I’m always adding to it. I’m pretty familiar with his style, but every now and then, Vinny surprises me.</p>
<p>A few nights ago, I found something special.</p>

<h2>11:37pm on a weekend night—I’m crouched in front of a lamppost behind the diner, taking shots of what appears to be Vinny’s most ambitious work yet. He’s moved on to posters, it seems, and they’re nice ones. I wonder how long he’s been doing this.</h2>
<h2>Abruptly, a car fixes me in its headlights and stops.</h2>
<p>I’m always aware that what I’m doing—displaying an unusual obsession with documenting vandalism—is an inherently suspicious activity. Cops might think I’m recording my own work; the people whose work it actually is might think I’m a cop. Municipal vandal squads often maintain vast databases of photos, so they can charge vandals with all the incidents they have evidence for. (Vinny, oddly enough, does not seem to be remotely concerned about this.) </p>
<h2>“Hey man!” the guy yells. “I was trying to give you some more light…”</h2>
<p>Now that was nice of him, wasn’t it? And it definitely helped. That’s the above photo. I never use flash—not unless I’m going for the crime-scene look—so I try to illuminate a lot of my night photos with the light from passing cars. It’s a kind of lighting that seems distinctly urban and in line with the<em> </em>aesthetic I’m going for: off-the-cuff, ephemeral, documentarian, and slightly eerie.</p>
<p><em>Beacon</em>, I think, getting back to work. I’m still in small-town Connecticut-suburb mode, where people live proper lives and try not to deviate too noticeably from the local norms. In some ways, Beacon is similar—upscale, not particularly diverse—but like I said:</p>
<p>Beacon is <em>weird</em>.</p>

<h1>Vinny never stops.</h1>
<h2>He doesn’t stop designing. He doesn’t stop coming up with new ways of presenting his face. And he definitely doesn’t stop posting.</h2>
<p>Some day, I’ll go through all the photos I have of the various Vinnies I’ve seen around Beacon: Skeleton Vinny, Starbucks Vinny, Disney Vinny, Fidel-Castro-at-a-Yankees-Game (???) Vinny. All of them. He warrants a closer, more comprehensive look.</p>
<p>Most of the names I’ve come to recognize around here are notable just for their sheer persistence. They’re everywhere—but it’s the same tag, the same sticker. </p>
<h2>Vinny is notable because his energy doesn’t stop at raw promotion. He doesn’t have one design, he’s got thirty; but they’re all instantly recognizable as his. He’s a brand—probably one of the most innovative street artists I’ve seen working today.</h2>

<h1>I’m a man of microcosms. I don’t do a lot of global traveling; I prefer getting to know the intricacies of one particular space.</h1>
<h2>And most spaces have more intricacy than they’re given credit for. Even the most boring suburb—and I’d know, I grew up in one—has an unusual plant here or there, strange caterpillars, and an otherworldly quality to it if you’re out and about late at night and in the fog.</h2>

<p>What my neighborhood didn’t have much in the way of was any sort of street art. Why would it? It was a community of middle-to-upper-class retirees who were probably barely aware that such a thing existed.</p>
<p>So when I visited cities for the first time, in Europe, the art—mostly graffiti—was one of the first things I noticed. I was obsessed with it. Who were these people who doggedly scrawled their art on walls in the middle of the night? And why was it so haunting? </p>
<h1><em>—</em></h1>
<h1><em>Well—because many of them seemed crazy. And more, because I was the only one who noticed them. It felt like being in on a secret.</em></h1>
<h2>Gradually, I got to recognize the names and drawings that showed up all over Paris, Basel, Cologne. It was almost like recognizing a friend in a crowd; some familiar sign when everything else seemed utterly alien.</h2>
<p>And when I came back to the United States, I took that obsession—and heightened perception—with me. Every time I’m in a city, I pay attention to who’s writing on its walls: who they claim to be, what they’re trying to say.</p>
<h1><em>—</em></h1>
<h2>The world is a little richer than most of us are led to believe. We notice from the earliest age that our curiosity often inconveniences people. After a while, we stop being curious. </h2>
<p>But there’s so much to see. Taking a close look at the city walls around you is like peering into a microscope.</p>
<h1>Look closely.</h1>
<h1>❦</h1>
<p><em>Thanks for reading. Not to be that YouTube guy, but I’ll be sharing more on here, so if you liked this, please subscribe—it gives me a sense of who’s actually reading this.</em></p>

Vicambulist 1: Taking a walk around Beacon, NY – the art gallery of the streets – pay attention to what’s around you, it’s worth it — @undefined's mag on Magma

Lifestyle

<h1>Rediscovering the Multi-Passionate You During a Global Pandemic</h1>
<p>By: Molly O’Toole</p>
<p>Self-assuredness has been something that has always ebbed and flowed for me. When I was a little girl, I was sure that I was going to be the next Indiana Jones, going off on amazing adventures until I was told very pointedly in my fourth-grade class that obsessing over King Tut in my spare time was “so not cool.”</p>
<p>So, I changed my tune and took up sports like every other girl my age, until I was told I didn’t have what it takes to be an amazing player by the girls in my class that wanted to my starting spot. So, even though I felt confident playing ball, I changed again and found love in the theater community.</p>
<p>Can you guess what happened there? Yep. You guessed it — I had a difficult time forming into the collegiate theater community because I wasn’t a true theater kid. So I found myself once again finding a way to change my path. During all of these encounters, I found that I loved what I was doing, but let the opinion of others and what others thought of me change my choices.</p>
<p>Society tells us that we need to pick one thing when we are 18 years old (with really no life experience behind us), focus on it, and be the very best at that one thing alone. Well, what if I say screw that? I found that after college, I was having to change my path once again because I wasn’t fitting society’s norms of what others thought of me. It was only during the pandemic that I actually took the time to self-reflect on what it was that I wanted in life. What I saw myself doing. Ultimately, what would make me happy. Because guess what? Everyone is going to have an opinion on what you should do with your life, but ultimately you are the one living those choices. So you mine as well make them your own.</p>
<p>This is something that I am still struggling with, but find that I’m starting to build my own path in life. I love culture, history, media, people, art, helping others, and always having variety in my day. When I look at that list — I see some really amazing things that can make up a wonderful and fulfilled life. So, why does it still feel like society is saying I can’t have them all?</p>
<p>I’ve decided to walk to my own beat — someone who is pursuing multiple passions at once and luckily there are parts of society today that are embracing these types of individuals. I love seeing “girlbosses” out there rocking multiple hats and trying to reinvent themselves over and over. These women are brave. They are confident. They are inspiring. These are the women I am choosing to be like.</p>
<p>I am still in my rediscovery phase — I am focusing on going back to school, finding a new job, and creating side hustles that inspire me every day. I am learning to love the new (well, maybe that’s the wrong word), the true me. If you are struggling with what life has thrown at you or are pivoting in life — know I believe in you and you are not alone. Listen to your desires, you got this.</p>

It’s time to rediscover the true you that’s inside. Embrace that multi-passionate you - here’s how — @undefined's mag on Magma

Mental Health

<h1>Letter to My Younger Self: The Over Anxious 16 Year Old</h1>
<p>By: Molly O’Toole</p>
<p>Dear 16-year old me,</p>
<p>On the cusp of my/your 26th birthday, I find myself thinking back on the last 10 years with equal parts awe and pride. Thinking of where I thought I would be in life as an anxious 16-year-old girl and where I am are a world away from each other. So let me tell you, girl, you need to start learning to relax.</p>
<p>Here’s the sitch on the last 10 years:</p>
<p>The friends you have now may seem wonderful, but soon you will learn that heartbreak doesn’t only come from romantic relationships but friendships as well. It will hurt but will teach you that it’s okay to start over with relationships and you will meet your people</p>

<p>You go to an amazing university (one you’ve never even heard of yet!), meet an amazing guy you are still with after almost 8 years (I know, I can’t believe it either), make an amazing group of friends, and live abroad in your dream city- London, baby!</p>
<p>You move to the city of angels after graduation to follow your dreams and hate it. The pressure of making it, the toxic culture, and the overall reality bubble of college getting popped gets to you and all you want is what you know. You leave to start your own business, struggling to make it work for two years before a global pandemic puts you and everyone in this world on hold for an entire year.</p>
<p>Oh, and you get the most wonderful puppy that makes your every day just that much brighter.</p>

<p>So, here we are; ten years later, trying to figure out what you want life to look like in a world that is alien to what you know. You still struggle with anxiety on a daily basis, but during this time of uncertainty, you have found some clarity about yourself.</p>
<p>I won’t claim to know everything — in fact, I really feel like I am having to relearn all I know, but this is what I’ve figured out so far.</p>

<p>1.	Make decisions with your life in mind: no one has ever forced you into any decision, but your need to please everyone has forced you to upset the one person that matters, yourself. You have dreams and they will ebb and flow as you experience more things in life and guess what? That’s okay. The people that love you only want you to be happy — they may have their own ideas of what that is — but you are the one living those choices. Make them your own.</p>
<p>2.	Life is short:I know this is a cliche but it has never rung more true than after this year. It has forced everyone to quarantine, fear for the lives of their loved ones, learn what an “essential job” truly is, and at the end of the day, re-evaluate what we all thought we knew about life. You’ve found a new purpose and it gives you an immense amount of relief and anxiety in equal measure, but ultimately it brings you peace. Peace in that you are starting to listen to yourself.</p>
<p>3.	The key to start finding happiness: Stop caring about the opinions of others. Stop comparing yourself to those Instagram photos that have yet to take off, stop thinking you’re unsuccessful because you aren’t a millionaire by the age of 26. Just live what you love. Focus on the small things — what makes you laugh, brings you peace, what calms that constant storm living inside of you.</p>

<p>Now, these are lessons you are still grappling with and trying to impart in your everyday life, but you are taking minor steps every day to learn more about yourself and follow these steps for a more authentic you.</p>
<p>At (almost) 26 you are starting over. Listening to yourself. Learning to re-love yourself. And you are okay.</p>
<p>So relax, study hard, and listen to your mom. She’s right most of the time (That’s always supposed to be the best advice right? Well, in this case, it’s true).</p>

<p>Life is weird and wonderful. Start learning to go with the flow, because life is going to throw you on a path you never would expect.</p>
<p>Peace out girl,</p>
<p>the older and maybe wiser you</p>

Wisdame Letters | Letter to My Younger Self: The Over Anxious 16 Year Old — @undefined's mag on Magma

<h1>Welcome Wisdame Women</h1>
<p>By: Molly O’Toole</p>
<p>This is Wisdame, a lifestyle editorial about women sharing their wisdom on culture, travel, love, + life. We have created a safe space for women to share their thoughts on culture, travel, love, and everything in between.</p>
<p>It can feel isolating to see that everyone on Instagram seems to have their life figured out. I know we have been in that boat before, and we always think, what could I be learning from them? What are they doing that I’m not doing? Can we please talk about how I’m feeling, the stresses that I’m facing in my day-to-day life? If you have had any of these thoughts, you have come to the right place.</p>

<p>We want to start conversations around all things happening in life and see what we can learn from one another, highlight the fantastic accomplishments all of you are achieving, and get real about the struggle we all face in our day-to-day lives. </p>

<p>So, come along for the ride! We hope reading along and seeing that you are not alone can help brighten your day just a little bit. And hey, if you have something you would like to share, reach out and say hey! We would love to hear from you! </p>
<p>Let’s start the conversation and share what wisdom we have in life.</p>
<p>Welcome to the Wisdame community!</p>

Welcome to Wisdame, a lifestyle editorial about women sharing their wisdom on culture, travel, love + life. — @undefined's mag on Magma

Events

Holidays

<h1>Halloweekend Roundup</h1>
<p><em>keep swiping for all the photos and all the links</em></p>
<p><em>—</em></p>
<p>Ah, Halloweekend in Los Angeles. You’re either in or you’re out, and we decided to fully participate this year. Whitney and I even ordered our costumes in late September which was a nice change from the usual last minute Amazon prime costume scramble I typically partake in. Our group Astro costume last year was such a success we knew we wanted to create another squad costume and the THING idea couldn’t have been more fitting for our girl group. After a few alterations to number the costumes 1-8 and Sami’s last minute Cat in the Hat ensemble (also please disregard Amanda’s wiglessness) we were ready to hit the LA Halloscene. We bounced around all night looking identical and it was a total hoot. Halloween tip: if you can manage to convince a group of friends to assemble to do a coordinated costume, studies show you have 10X more fun.</p>

<p>I’ll let you in on a game-changing Halloween costume tip. Sure it’s Halloween and anything goes, but no one really wants to be <em>fully</em> nakey, especially when it’s freezing out. There are these miracle tights, they’re the ones that the Hooters girls wear. They’re dirt cheap, they smooth you out, hold you in and give you a glowing tan. Pre order yourself some now and thank me in 2022. Also full credit to The Skinny Confidential for first sharing this secret on her blog! </p>
<h1><em></em></h1>
<h1><em>L I N K S</em></h1>
<p><em></em></p>
<ul>
  <li><em><a href="https://www.forplaycatalog.com/p/All-Products/Its-a-Thing-Sexy-Storybook-Character-Costume/184661.html">THING Costume</a> </em></li>
  <li><em><a href="https://www.prettylittlething.us/white-thigh-high-point-block-heel-boot.html">White High Boots</a> </em></li>
  <li><em><a href="https://amzn.to/3k4hPxW">Short Blue Wig</a> </em></li>
  <li><em><a href="https://www.forplaycatalog.com/p/Wigs/Blue-Straight-Wig-with-Bangs/184853.html">Long Blue Wig</a> </em></li>
  <li><em><a href="https://241pantyhose.com/product/open-toe-tamara-calendar-girl-pantyhose-designed-for-new-hooters-girl-uniform/">The BEST Halloween tights</a> </em></li>
</ul>
<p><em></em></p>
<p><em><a href="https://vm.tiktok.com/TTPdYbwnCL/">Tap to my TikTok recap from our night being THINGS</a> </em></p>

<p>When I first met Zack he informed me of his stance on Halloween - that he refused to put effort into a costume and that he would be, by default, a pilot every year for the foreseeable future. And sure enough, unless I take it upon myself to put together an alternate ensemble for him, that’s what tends to happen. Well this year I decided I would take matters into my own hands, and while it took a lot of convincing, I managed to throw together a non-pilot couples costume that he agreed to put on (it was up in the air until day-of if he would actually wear it or not). Did I plan the entire idea around <em>my</em> costume? Yeah, maybe. Whitney and I wanted to be Buzz Lightyears last year but the costume was sold out. But let’s focus on the fact that I got Zack to retire the pilot for 1/2 of Halloween this year! I’ll take the W. If you saw Woody and Buzz Lightyear making out on Saturday night, that was us. </p>

<h1><em>L I N K S</em></h1>
<ul>
  <li><a href="https://amzn.to/31yx2Rp">Buzz Coztume</a> </li>
  <li><a href="https://amzn.to/3whhGvO">Buzz Sunglasses </a> </li>
  <li><a href="https://www.prettylittlething.us/white-thigh-high-point-block-heel-boot.html">High White Boots</a> </li>
  <li><a href="https://241pantyhose.com/product/open-toe-tamara-calendar-girl-pantyhose-designed-for-new-hooters-girl-uniform/">Best tights</a> (wearing Light Tan)</li>
  <li><a href="https://www.forplaycatalog.com/p/TV--Movie-Characters/Lets-Play-a-Game-Sexy-Movie-Clown-Character-Costume/174134.html?aaid=PLA">Kristina’s Clown Costume</a> </li>
  <li><a href="https://bit.ly/3BGQsjr">Zack’s Woody Vest</a> </li>
  <li><a href="https://amzn.to/3GRrtgS">Woody Yellow Flannel</a></li>
  <li><a href="https://amzn.to/3k8310Z"> Woody Cowboy Hat</a></li>
  <li> <a href="https://www.bootbarn.com/moonshine-spirit-mens-crazy-horse-vintage-western-boots/2000112307.html">Cowboy Boots</a> </li>
  <li><a href="https://amzn.to/3bJ0cPw">Western Belt Buckle</a> </li>
  <li><a href="https://amzn.to/3BNcXD2">Sheriff Star Badge</a></li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<p><a href="https://vm.tiktok.com/TTPdYb3CEc/">Watch the TikTok I made from this night</a> (it went sorta viral!) </p>
<p>Or watch it on IG Reels below!</p>

<p>I’ll be hibernating until next year! </p>

Halloween 2021 Roundup — @undefined's mag on Magma

Surfing

Sports

<h1>Is surfing changing the path of sportsmanship?</h1>
<p>Opinion By Jake Warner </p>
<p>Over the last 40 years sports have evolved in ways their originators, all stars and students never imagined. From MJ showing what athletic dominance is, to Tom Brady proving that age has no affect on ability or performance.</p>
<p>We have been fortunate enough as a generation to witness and experience athleticism in it’s rawest form. But measuring a sport’s progression is becoming less about the level of performance and more about what being an athlete within a sport means. </p>
<p>Surfing has not changed much as a sport since the late 70’s when the modern idea of professional contests began. To this day not much is different on both the recreational and competitive level. As surfers we still frequent the same spots, chase the same swells and even ride similar boards to those that were surfed in the 80’s (the now default three fin “thruster” surfboard design was introduced by Simon Anderson in 1980). Of course the level of performance has gone through the roof with new maneuvers being introduced almost daily thanks to social media, but it’s the progress surfing has made from a cultural standpoint that has begun a whole new world for professional athletics.</p>

<h1>Camaraderie </h1>
<p>As long as sports have been around one thing has been certain, there will always be a winner and a loser. </p>
<p>With competition soaring to new levels, competitive nature often follows suit with emotions and actions often showing through professional demeanor. What has occurred over the last 5 years of surfing though is something special. Opponents have become training partners, rivals have become friends and post loss anger has turned into support. All in all losers in the sport of surfing are transforming into non-winners. </p>
<p>Why is this important? Surfing is one of the hardest sports to become a champion in. The grueling travel schedules, variable competitive conditions and international playing field is a breeding ground for potential anger from surfer to surfer. Over the years the sport has seen rivalries turn into aggressive and negative situations with some surfers exiting the world tour all together as a result. The progression of camaraderie within the sport has been parallel with the progression of talent and exposure. In doing so it seems as a rightful example other sports can follow.</p>

<h1>Equal Pay / Opportunity</h1>
<p>The past decade has seen advancements in women’s athletics on incredible levels. From brand sponsorships, exposure deals, and most importantly in level of play. </p>
<p>With these pushes for female sport comes the grandest advancement of them all. Where does financial compensation equate to that of their male counterparts?</p>
<p>For professional women’s surfing, the answer is clear. The World Surf League, the professional surfing league, has made the prize purses of the women’s tour match that if the men’s. With this leap forward, the sport of women’s surfing has also grown immensely. Spotlights are being put on these amazing athletes in ways that were non existent just 5 years ago. Young girls are treating their surfing dreams the same as they would soccer, volleyball or basketball. And for the first time, professional surfing is gaining the attention of brands and experts from other sports that can help put surfing where it belongs, on the same stage as all other professional sports.</p>
<p>The WSL Championship Tour is now one of the only U.S. based sports requiring equal pay for both men and women.</p>

Sal Masekela on Racial Justice at the Encinitas Paddle Out

<h1>Inclusion </h1>
<p>With surfing being a tremendously international sport, there is still a mass barrier of inclusion within most communities. Aside from race, religion and ethnicity, surfers are often opposed to having outsiders of any kind paddling out at their local lineup. The “localism” mentality has caused immense turmoil at beaches worldwide and even extreme violence in some scenarios ( look up Luanda Bay Boys &amp; the Bra Boys). But movements at some select beaches have brought a wave of new surfers who want nothing more than to enjoy the same feeling that got us all hooked on surfing in the first place. </p>
<p>Although most sports in this day and age are inclusive of all people, the fact that surfing, a predominantly white sport is branching out into demographics far from the norm is a thing of beauty. </p>

<p>The current state of the surfing industry is a unique and specialized situation. We have the rare opportunity to see a sport once synonymous with counter culture, extreme individuality and inferior career paths become a solidified sport amongst those we are raider to partake in. School surf teams, Olympic dreams and fame and fortune are all part of the program, but it’s the powerful progression that will ultimately make surfing a household concept.</p>

Is Surfing the most progressive sport in the world? — @undefined's mag on Magma

Music

<h1><em>Bio</em></h1>
<p><em>Fusing his hip hop roots with lush and experimental electronic composition, CharlestheFirst has developed a danceable style steeped in dreaminess and pyschedelia. Born in 1996 in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Charles has been heavily influenced by nature and the adventure that coincides with it.</em></p>

<h1>CHARLESTHEFIRST TELLS A STORY THROUGH ATMOSPHERIC BASS ALBUM, 'THE ASCENT'</h1>
<p><a href="https://edmidentity.com/2019/01/06/charlesthefirst-the-ascent-album-review/">EDM Identity</a> written by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cristiaan_b/">Cristiaan Broderick</a> </p>

<p><strong>CharlestheFirst combines nature and music to create the journey that is his second full-length album, The Ascent!</strong></p>
<p></p>
<p>Charles Elias Ingalls, more commonly known as left-field bass music producer <strong>CharlestheFirst</strong>, released his second full-length album, <strong><em><a href="https://edmidentity.com/2018/12/22/landing-volume-098/">The Ascent</a></em></strong> last week. Over the last several years, the Lake Tahoe-based producer has steadily cemented his position as a pioneer of modern bass music.</p>
<p>Much of CharlestheFirst’s discography is embellished with found sound and other foley that add natural texture and ambiance to his pieces. <em>The Ascent</em> is no exception. The manipulation of all this ear candy in conjunction with fluid basslines, ethereal pads, and soft plucks create a very compelling soundscape. The SoundCloud genre tag is “storytelling,” which is fitting; like its title implies, the album is a journey.</p>
<p><strong>While each track is capable of standing on its own, the album really shines when listened through in full.</strong></p>
<p>CharlestheFirst takes conventions of bass music and flips them on their heads, delivering bass-centric tracks that seldom compromise melodic interest. The album showcases creative integrity that a lot of bass music leaves to be desired.</p>
<p>The emphasis placed on nature and its inherent adventure is a salient characteristic of the album. It’s beautiful and humbling, unpredictable and mysterious.</p>
<p>The 11-track album runs just under 38 minutes, with no individual track that’s longer than five minutes. That being said, there is a lot of atmosphere and movement packed into these songs, so I’m going to walk through the album and some of its highlights.</p>

Charles the First at Enchanted Forest 2017

<p><em>I first saw CharlesTheFirst live￼ at a festival in Humboldt County called <a href="https://instagram.com/enchantedforestgathering?utm_medium=copy_link">Enchanted Forest</a>. After that experience, I had a burning desire to listen to his music and see him perform more exquisite sets such as that one I saw.￼</em></p>
<p><em>Pictured in the above video you can watch a flow dance performed during his set at Enchanted.</em></p>
<p><em>Below you can watch a video I took myself at a CharlesTheFirst show in November 2019 in Los Angeles.</em></p>

<p>I wanted to get a tattoo that symbolized my love for bass music. So I decided to get my favorite festival's emblem the Shambhala owl, representing the Shambhala Music Festival, morphed with the bass drop, and CharlesTheFirst's crown on top.￼￼ </p>
<p>Bass music has allowed me to find a flow to life in so many different ways, from writing code, to dancing, to just pondering life itself.￼ It brings an energy that no other music can manifest. The best aspect to underground electronic bass music such as CharlesTheFirst is the experimental and rather abstract sounds expressed. In my humble opinion, there's no other genre with the same amount of freedom to explore sounds.</p>

CharlesTheFirst - A Young Pioneer of Experimental Bass Music — @undefined's mag on Magma

Community

LGBTQ+

Six Mile Lake

<h1>Six Mile Lake Pride Parade</h1>
<p>For Six Mile Lake, the problems of the pandemic called for an innovative solution, which is now becoming a welcome tradition. This tight lake community is coming together for a second year to show solidarity and support for our LGBTQ+ community, holding their second annual Gay Pride Boat Parade on June 26. </p>
<p></p>
<p>Due to COVID-19 strict social distancing measures and the elimination of large social gatherings, community events are still being cancelled. However, one determined young woman and a gay rights advocate, found a way to raise hope and create something fun and positive in support of her friends in the LGBTQ+ community.</p>

<p>Allison Vidug has deep rooted ties to Six Mile Lake where her great grandfather first purchased property in the 1940s. As a lifelong cottager with a love of the lake, the land, and the nature surrounding it, Allison took the leap and moved from the city to live here full time in April 2021 to put down permanent roots.</p>

<p>As an ally of the LGBTQ+ community, Allison wanted to celebrate Gay Pride Week with a socially distanced parade where everyone could participate, while remaining within their own social bubbles and still show their love and support for the community. Last year, without knowing how the idea would be received or even how many people and vessels would participate, Allison posted a brief outline on the Six Mile Lake facebook page one week before the scheduled parade providing details of the lake parade route. </p>

<p>The morning of the parade, Allison and her friends were left speechless as boat after boat arrived at the starting point, decorated and flying the pride flags, ready to sail the parade route. Young and old, including a couple in their 90s with limited mobility, found a way to join the festivities as the regatta of boats sailed by while cottagers on shore stood at their docks cheering, waving pool noodles, blowing air horns, and clapping in solidarity. It was truly a show of love, respect, and tolerance.</p>
<p>At the end of the parade route everyone dropped anchor for a swim and to take the opportunity to meet other cottagers, some for the first time, while revelling in the spirit of a new beginning and hope for the future of this lake community. </p>

<p>One mom explained "I have been on this lake my whole life and I have never seen an event like this. It brought me to tears of happiness at the outpouring of love". </p>

<p>The success of the 2020 lake parade created such buzz that immediately, many people came forward asking how they could participate in the next one, raising no doubt that there would be a repeat in 2021. With the enthusiasm and support of the community, the Six Mile Lake Annual Gay Pride Boat Parade is now established, including an extended route this year to include more of the lake shoreline.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Along with the residents’ interest comes far reaching support from local associations and establishments. The <u><a href="https://www.sixmilelake.net">Six Mile Lake Cottage Association</a></u> is pledging their support with the entry of a decorated pontoon boat that will be sailing alongside the rest of the boaters. <u><a href="https://www.muskokabrewery.com">Muskoka Brewery</a></u> will be joining and lending their name to the event. <u><a href="https://www.thep2plife.com/planned-2-perfection/">Planned 2 Perfection Limited</a></u> , <u><a href="https://www.thep2plife.com/paradise-2-perfection/">Paradise 2 Perfection Travel</a></u> and <u><a href="https://www.thep2plife.com">The P2P Life</a></u> are also proud to show their ongoing support of the community and its causes.</p>
<p> </p>

<h1>Parade Route</h1>
<p></p>
<p>All are welcome to show their Pride Spirit and join in the festivities whether it be from the shore or by boat.</p>
<p>The Parade will begin at 1pm starting at the <u><a href="https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/sixmilelake">Six Mile Provincial Park</a></u></p>
<p>&gt; heading towards <span style="text-decoration: underline">South Hungry Bay</span></p>
<p>&gt; around <span style="text-decoration: underline">Hungry Island</span></p>
<p>&gt; parallel to <span style="text-decoration: underline">Long Lake</span></p>
<p>&gt; through the <span style="text-decoration: underline">Northwest Passage</span></p>
<p>&gt; up to <span style="text-decoration: underline">Crooked Bay</span></p>
<p>&gt; down through <span style="text-decoration: underline">Channel Two</span></p>
<p>&gt; ending in <span style="text-decoration: underline">Barefoot Bay</span>!</p>
<p>COVID-19 Safety measures will be adhered to:</p>
<p>&gt; Stay within your household/bubble.</p>
<p>&gt; If joining by boat, be sure to have all of the safety gear required by law and a pleasure craft operators license.</p>
<p>&gt; Maintain a safe speed and distance.</p>

<p>A small idea with a big outcome certainly has given new life to what has otherwise been a very stressful year for all. Allison, her friends and the residents of Six Mile Lake are a true testament to meaning of Community!</p>
<p>For more information on this year's parade please contact Allison Vidug - <u><a href="mailto:allisonvidug@hotmail.com">allisonvidug@hotmail.com</a></u></p>

Pride Parade I the Lake — @undefined's mag on Magma

Fashion

<h1>Bikini Season 👙</h1>
<h2>It’s that time of year when you are scavenging through the internet to find that perfect bikini to pair with that perfect trip. </h2>
<h2>Today, we are changing up our content to highlight some of those missing travel essentials. </h2>
<h2>When you come across an orange shopping icon on the top right of an image, tap it. </h2>
<h2>Hope you find that perfect 👙 by swiping through this Mag!</h2>

It’s that time of year - Bikini Season!  — @undefined's mag on Magma

Weddings

Romance

Chileno Bay Club

<h1>The Calm Before the Storm</h1>
<p>What a special weekend we all had. I’ve been so blessed to have so many amazing friends, most which I’ve known since elementary school and here we are today still together. Fun fact, Nate and Dani met at my wedding in 2017 and that’s when their love story began! </p>
<p>So amazing seeing you both grow into the beautiful husband and wife that you are! </p>
<p>Thank you for also opening our eyes to <a href="https://aubergeresorts.com/chilenobay/?utm_source=google%20my%20business&utm_medium=listing&utm_campaign=visit%20website">Chileno Bay</a> ! What a gorgeous resort in Cabo San Lucas!</p>
<p>And thank you for a magical weekend! </p>

<h1>⬆️<a href="https://aubergeresorts.com/chilenobay/?utm_source=google%20my%20business&utm_medium=listing&utm_campaign=visit%20website">CHILENO BAY</a>⬆️</h1>

<h1>Arriving at Chileno Bay!</h1>
<p>This weeding was heavily anticipated due to Covid effecting the original date. Originally is was supposed to be back in December, but Covid won that battle and had to be pushed…. it was for the better. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect and it was well worth the wait!</p>

<h2>Friday evening we had a incredible Shabbat dinner, everyone dressed in white, long tables lit with candles on the beach with amazing food and drinks. What a dinner party we had!</h2>
<h2>Below is our first night out to <a href="https://acrebaja.com">Acre</a>, a must go restaurant in Cabo!</h2>

<h2>Excellent dinner, must order the cheese biscuits…y’all who were there will get the joke…<a href="magma://users/DRMc6Z07gTSSPR0Hft6fnI49XVj2">@ADVENTURE</a> 😂</h2>
<h2>Thanks J for the order! ￼</h2>

<h2>Nathan, it was an absolute honor standing by your side throughout the day! Our wedding prep was unforgettable :)</h2>
<h2>Something to hold on to and cherish forever. Mikva, Tikun, Teffilin and the spa! What more could you want! You were glowing under that Chuppa and it was another honor being under there with you as your witness ;)</h2>

<h1>Celebrating this beautiful couple! </h1>

<h2>Unfortunately good times do come to an end, but fortunately we get cherish each moment forever. </h2>
<h2>I love you both so much. It’s such an honor to be apart of ￼￼each your lives, can’t wait to keep growing our families side by side, Asher needs another buddy😉</h2>
<h2>It was an absolute beautiful weeding and an amazing time!</h2>
<h2>May hashem continue to bless you both with only !ברכות! שמחות! בריאות until 120🙏🏻 </h2>

Nate & Dani Wedding! Chileno Bay, Cabo San Lucas.  5/23/21 — @undefined's mag on Magma

Motorcycles

Photography

Mountains

Malibu

<h1>The Year is 1970...</h1>
<p>Malibu is quiet, tranquil and raw. The air is 75°, the surf is 3-4ft and the sun is making it’s last impact on a textbook California Day. Perched in the hills above the famous Malibu Pier, I admire the ocean below and the lack of intruding noise that the Santa Monica Mountains provide. </p>
<p>In the distance a rumble appears. Two motorcycles come into frame, getting louder and faster by the second, carving a trail that’s barely visible. It’s brothers <a href="https://instagram.com/reidharper16?igshid=1fd70ykx8tgcu">Reid</a> &amp; <a href="https://instagram.com/lifeof_riley?igshid=6joh43khyhis">Riley</a> Harper making the best of a Thursday afternoon on their Triumph Bonnevilles. They are bar to bar, weaving through drought stricken dirt causing a trailing cloud that can’t seem to catch them. They make it the to top of an overlook, shut their engines off and breathe. The scene is once again quiet with the occasional wind and cricket interference. They look at each other and with a nod and not a word spoken they kick their engines over and ride off again with nothing to do but twist their throttles.</p>
<p>Ok. Maybe the year is 2021, but the vibe and details are dead on. By far one of the most fun shoots I’ve done in a while. </p>

On Any Thursday. A motorcycle moment from then experienced now.

Riders: Reid Harper & Riley Harper

Motorcycles: Triumph Vintage  — @undefined's mag on Magma

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