Fashion

The Enduring Love Story of Barbra Streisand and James Brolin

The remarkable love story of Barbra Streisand and James Brolin stands as a testament to enduring affection in the often-fleeting world of celebrity relationships. Their bond, which has flourished for nearly three decades, began with a humorous and unforgettable first meeting, proving that true connection can spark in the most unexpected ways. From a candid opening line to becoming beloved grandparents, their journey is a captivating example of lasting partnership, even inspiring creative works along the way.

A Hollywood Love Story: From Witty Banter to Enduring Partnership

In 1996, at a dinner party orchestrated by a mutual friend, the paths of legendary entertainer Barbra Streisand and esteemed actor James Brolin converged. Streisand, anticipating a different appearance based on Brolin's past roles, was met with his clean-shaven, buzz-cut look. Her immediate, New Yorker-esque query "Who messed up your hair?" rather than alienating Brolin, charmed him instantly, setting the stage for an extraordinary romance. That same year, the couple graced their first red carpet together, solidifying their public debut. Two years later, in 1998, they exchanged vows in a private ceremony at their Los Angeles residence. Today, their family has grown to include grandchildren, with Josh Brolin, James's son, affectionately describing Streisand as a "typical Jewish grandmother" whose joy in her grandparent role is palpable. Their profound connection not only inspired Streisand's 1999 album, "A Love Like Ours," but also, remarkably, contributed to the genesis of Aerosmith's iconic hit, "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing." Songwriter Diane Warren recounted how Brolin's sentiment about not wanting to sleep because he'd miss Streisand sparked the song's central theme, immortalizing their unique love in rock history.

The narrative of Streisand and Brolin provides a compelling blueprint for modern relationships, emphasizing authenticity, humor, and mutual admiration. Their ability to maintain a strong, loving bond amidst the pressures of public life offers a hopeful perspective on celebrity marriages. Their story teaches us that genuine connection, built on shared laughter and deep affection, can not only withstand the test of time but also inspire art and touch countless hearts, becoming a true Hollywood legend.

Meet the Minds Behind Vogue's Global Spa Guide

This compilation introduces the distinguished editorial team and contributors responsible for curating Vogue's comprehensive Global Spa Guide. It offers a glimpse into the professional backgrounds and personal wellness preferences of each individual, revealing the diverse perspectives that inform the guide. From senior editors to lifestyle writers, each member brings a unique blend of expertise and enthusiasm for health, beauty, and travel, underscoring the multifaceted nature of contemporary well-being.

Chloe Schama, a senior editor at American Vogue in New York, focuses on cultural topics and integrates wellness into her reporting. Despite her aversion to saunas, she finds solace in swimming and gardening, reflecting a practical yet refined approach to self-care. Similarly, Florence O'Connor, an associate content manager for Vogue.com, manages content creation and budgets while actively writing about lifestyle, wellness, and weddings. Her ideal escape involves a countryside hotel with a hot tub in England, illustrating a desire for serene, restorative environments.

The contributor section further expands on these diverse viewpoints. Tamar Adler, a celebrated author of culinary books and a contributing editor to Vogue, resides in Madrid. Her work often intertwines with broader cultural narratives, bringing a depth of experience to the guide. Margaux Anbouba, American Vogue's senior beauty and wellness editor, displays a profound curiosity for all aspects of skincare and body treatments, from K-spa scrubs to luxurious caviar facials. Her adventurous spirit in exploring new treatments speaks to a dedication to uncovering innovative wellness practices. Arden Fanning Andrews, Vogue’s beauty editor-at-large, seamlessly connects fashion, culture, art, and beauty. Her wellness rituals include "forest bathing" during park walks and indulging in hydrotherapy in her bathtub, showcasing an ability to find tranquility in both urban and personal settings.

Alessandra Codinha, a Los Angeles-based writer and editor, leverages her background in fashion and cultural criticism to explore wellness through travel. She values natural spa experiences and breathwork, maintaining a neutral stance on sound baths despite varied personal encounters. Grace Edquist, Vogue US's copy director, also contributes to arts coverage and maintains her well-being through yoga, drawing on a lifelong affinity for spas since her 16th birthday. Morgan Fargo, British Vogue's beauty and wellness editor, embraces both advanced technology and holistic approaches in her spa preferences, embodying a modern vision of wellness that blends innovation with overall well-being.

Funmi Fetto, British Vogue’s beauty and wellness director, enjoys the professional advantage of reviewing spas, with a particular fondness for saunas, steam rooms, and technologically advanced facials. Her definition of wellness extends beyond traditional spa treatments to include art, shopping, and reading, highlighting a holistic view of personal enrichment. Liam Hess, American Vogue’s living editor, covers topics from homes to travel, often seeking deep tissue massages and cold plunges during his travels. His adventurous spirit leads him to explore remote natural destinations and boundary-pushing spa experiences. Mattie Kahn, a New York-based writer, balances her love for spas with a preference for practical, effective treatments, such as orthopedic massages over more luxurious options, demonstrating a grounded approach to self-care.

Anna Grace Lee, a lifestyle writer at Vogue, covers an array of topics including travel and food. She prefers steam rooms over saunas and finds joy in water-based activities, reminiscing about a spa-themed birthday party from her youth. Christina Liao, a freelance travel writer, seeks out unique spa experiences, particularly those incorporating local traditions and addressing mental and emotional health, reflecting a desire for authentic and meaningful wellness journeys. Lisa Wong Macabasco, a senior digital line editor at Vogue, embraces massages as part of her routine, alongside running and yoga, showcasing a balanced and active lifestyle. Kylee McGuigan, the associate production manager of Vogue.com, integrates running and online shopping into her wellness practices. Christina Pérez, a freelance writer, explores the intersection of travel, design, and well-being, favoring holistic, mind-body treatments rooted in ancient traditions and local practices. Radhika Seth, British Vogue’s film and culture editor, finds relaxation in saunas, ancient Indian rituals, and long walks, combining cultural exploration with personal well-being. Mahoro Seward, British Vogue’s fashion & style editor, views spas as safe spaces and is willing to travel extensively for treatments that restore balance to mind, body, and soul.

This collective of editors and contributors brings a wealth of expertise and personal insight to Vogue's Global Spa Guide. Their diverse interests, from cultural reporting and culinary arts to beauty and travel, shape a comprehensive and engaging resource for those seeking to enhance their well-being. Each individual's unique perspective on wellness—whether through nature, technology, or ancient traditions—contributes to a rich tapestry of approaches to self-care, making the guide an authoritative and inspiring reference.

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The Newt in Somerset: A Serene Escape in the English Countryside

Nestled in the picturesque English countryside, The Newt in Somerset stands out as a sanctuary for those seeking profound rejuvenation. This distinguished estate, featured in Vogue's global spa guide, epitomizes a harmonious blend of historical charm, natural splendor, and contemporary wellness practices. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in an environment where every detail, from the meticulously designed gardens to the farm-fresh culinary offerings, contributes to an unparalleled sense of tranquility and well-being. The property's commitment to holistic care extends to its spa treatments, which harness the power of local ingredients, creating an experience that truly nourishes the body and calms the mind.

The journey to The Newt begins even before arrival, with the refreshed station offering a glimpse into the serene world awaiting visitors. Situated conveniently near Bruton and Castle Cary, and approximately a two-and-a-half-hour drive from London, this destination transforms the travel experience into an integral part of the escape. Upon reaching the 800-acre estate, guests are gracefully transported via electric golf buggies through idyllic landscapes, past grazing sheep, to their accommodations. The estate boasts 43 rooms and suites, spread across an elegant Grade II-listed farmhouse and the charming Farmyard area, where former agricultural buildings have been tastefully converted. These unique lodgings, coupled with amenities like a dedicated pool, games room, and exquisite dining options that predominantly source ingredients directly from the estate, including a delightful gelateria, ensure a stay of utmost comfort and indulgence.

The visual allure of The Newt is undeniable, with expansive, almost dreamlike formal gardens crafted by the celebrated Italian-French architect Patrice Taravella. These include an apple tree-lined parabola set within a Baroque-style maze, alongside an abundant kitchen garden cultivating over 350 varieties of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. These fresh ingredients are not only central to the estate's farm-to-fork philosophy but also form the basis of its signature spa treatments, embodying the essence of English countryside dreams. The ambiance inside the restored 17th-century limestone manor, Hadspen House, is equally captivating. Its cozy living room, adorned with a wood-burning fireplace, plush velvet seating, and ancestral portraits of the Hobhouse family, exudes warmth and history. The Botanical Rooms restaurant offers an 'estate-to-plate' dining experience, featuring dishes like British White beef and deer park venison served in an orangery-style setting.

A highlight of The Newt experience is its spa, strategically located within easy reach of many accommodations. The thermal circuit is a modern homage to classic Roman bathhouses, featuring a floor-to-ceiling glass sauna overlooking lush fern trees, a rejuvenating steam room, and an indoor-outdoor pool. For the adventurous, an outdoor cold plunge pool provides an invigorating contrast. The spa's 'farm-to-treatment-table' philosophy utilizes ingredients like rosemary, lavender, and sage harvested from its medieval herb garden, offering treatments that engage all senses. The history of the grounds is deeply interwoven with its present. What is now part of the spa, including its underground sections, once served as a cowshed and barn. The meticulous six-year conversion process respected these historical structures, incorporating features like circular pillars designed to prevent cows from dislodging bricks, thereby preserving the unique character of the estate.

Among the array of treatments, the Garden Signature Massage stands out, inviting guests on a barefoot, sensory journey through the gardens to harvest their own herbs for teas or infused steam treatments. The Turkish-style hammam treatments are particularly transformative, involving a gentle polishing in a private marble-lined steam chamber with a captivating blue mosaic ceiling. A recent visit included a sequence of steam, black soap lathering, vigorous scrubbing with a kessa mit, followed by a milk and honey body mask sourced from the estate, and a gentle massage, culminating in a feeling of polished serenity. The Newt's dedication to environmental responsibility is evident in its hyper-local approach, sourcing 80% of its food directly from the estate and implementing a zero single-use plastic policy. Even apple pulp waste from cider production is repurposed as a yeast starter for sourdough, showcasing an exemplary commitment to sustainability. Access to these exceptional spa facilities is exclusively available to hotel guests and members.

The Newt in Somerset emerges as a distinguished destination, offering a profound escape for both body and spirit. Its fusion of historical elegance, breathtaking natural beauty, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability crafts an environment where guests can truly disconnect from the demands of modern life and reconnect with nature and themselves. From the meticulously curated gardens to the innovative spa treatments and the locally sourced culinary delights, every element is thoughtfully designed to foster a sense of peace and well-being. This unique sanctuary not only provides luxurious relaxation but also encourages a deeper appreciation for the rhythms of the natural world, making it an exemplary choice for those seeking a holistic wellness retreat.

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