Target's "Suitcase In Backpack Form" Bag Is Pure Magic
Or to arrive at the boarding of a budget airline with your 'carry-on' to be confronted with that stingy little box with clearly marked measurements that are sure to fall short of what you planned to bring on the plane.Frequent fliers have therefore become well accustomed to stuffing as much as possible into as few square inches or liters as physics will allow — and when a bag comes along that appears to offer that Mary Poppins-like ability to stash a shocking amount of stuff, it's worth noting.Target's Open Story brand is known for its stylish and genuinely functional travel accessories — we've previously written up fan favorites like this suspiciously Away-like hardshell suitcase and the brand's no-brainer, just-buy-it luggage scale that will save anyone from the aforementioned overweight baggage fees. This generously-sized backpack appears to be the next installment in this march of well-designed essentials, and it has a stunning number of long-winded 5-star reviews testifying to its supreme functionality. Overall, it's earned a 4.7-star rating across 90 reviews (with 73 of them clocking in at 5 stars).The 35-liter capacity bag has a clamshell closure, which opens completely flat, and one exterior zip pocket that opens to reveal a series of slip pockets for small essentials like passports, reading material, and the like. The interior reveals two zipper-protected sides that are equipped with every conceivable shape of compartment for keeping clothing, toiletries, and more organized with scientific precision, and the rear laptop sleeve holds a machine measuring up to 17 inches. One reviewer below described using packing cubes, but given the bag's internal structure, we're not even really sure that's necessary. The whole shebang can be compressed shut with the help of adjustable exterior closures, and in addition to the padded backpack straps, there are side carrying handles and a luggage slip for use with handled rolling luggage.Not every review is stellar, and some of the poorer reviews offer perspective on the bag's size, which, at 19.25 inches tall, 13 inches wide, and 8 inches deep, is perhaps a hair larger than, say, a traditional banker's box. For some reviewers, the heft was too much — but this population pales in comparison to the number of customers who happily embraced the bag's girth and stuffed it full of everything they'd need for trips up to three weeks long (in the instance of the reviewer below who brought it on a solo trip to Italy).Enough from me, though — take a look at what some of the most informative reviews had to say (it was hard to narrow down) or just scroll all the way to get this magical bag in time for your next trip.
Promising reviews:
'Took this as my sole bag for two weeks in Europe and it held up amazingly. Fits neatly under the seat in front of me on my flight and holds a ridiculous amount of stuff. Very sturdy zippers and seams. A little uncomfortably on the shoulders when loaded heavy, but manageable.' —Lg'I used this item as a personal item on a Spirit flight. I was a little nervous it would be too big, but I didn't have any problems! I tried not to overstuff, but of course still did. The straps to condense it smaller definitely helped. I have used it a few times since for weekend trips. All of the different pockets and compartments make it perfect for any small trip.' —Jayme'This worked great for my long flight! I was able to bring some clothes and all the things that I needed for my long flight. The computer pocket and small pocket were great for easy and quick access. I wanted to make a suitcase in a backpack form and this is it.' —RebF'Single Greatest Luggage Purchase. Size is perfect for avoiding carry-on fees for air travel. So many well-designed, convenient, and supported compartments. Wears like a backpack, stores like a suitcase! Chef's kiss!' —LFTravels'I used this for a trip to Europe and it was great! I used compression packing cubes, and it held a ton! I love that it still has a protected spot for my laptop and easy-access pockets. It held up really well!' —skb324'If you fly Spirit or Frontier, then this is definitely a must-buy. I used it for the first time on a Frontier flight last week, and just as I expected, I was stopped during the boarding process (along with like five other people) because I didn't pay the extra fee to bring a carry-on bag. Luckily, I was able to squish it down, tighten the straps on the side, and unclip the shoulder straps to make it fit in the little metal bin. At that moment, I said to myself, 'I have to give this thing a 5-star review,' so here I am. Now I'm buying one for my dad and my brother.' —Mia'I needed a backpack for a 3-week solo trip to Italy, and this was amazing. It was so sturdy and held up with all of the travel. It carried so much, and the different compartments are super convenient. I love how it opens fully. It was very comfortable to wear and walk around with. I've used this bag several times since my trip, and it has not disappointed. The ONLY negative thing I can think of is that the zipper handles didn't have a hole thick enough to use miniature locks (for safety while traveling). So we had to use a little creativity to make sure I could 'lock' the zippers. That's literally my only complaint, though. I recommend this bag all the time.' —kbskate'Purchased for my bf last minute as he was flying to Vegas for a bachelor party. He didn't purchase a carry-on or a checked bag and just planned on using a backpack. After packing all of his things, I realized it would not fit, so I quickly purchased this for pickup! It was awesome! The bag fit everything he needed for 4 days' worth of things. He's also a BIG guy, so his things take up a lot of room. All in all, it was perfect and Spirit Airlines had no issues.' —Kat
Get it from Target for $49 (available in five colors).
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New York Post
2 hours ago
- New York Post
I've dragged my Away luggage around the world for 7 years — here's why I wouldn't travel without it
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. Years ago, while passing through Munich International Airport, I had a truly mortifying travel moment: my overstuffed, flimsy suitcase burst open on the baggage claim belt, sending my clothes spilling everywhere. I'll never forget the older man who kindly handed me my underwear — his face marked by a look of secondhand embarrassment. After that, I made myself a promise: never again would I travel with a cheap suitcase. When it came time to finally invest in quality luggage, I didn't hesitate. About seven years ago, I bought my first piece from Away Luggage, and I haven't looked back since. I started with the Bigger Carry-On in light pink (later upgraded to the expandable version in black), then added The Large for longer trips, and most recently, The Medium — now my go-to whenever I need to check a bag. It's safe to say I'm an Away loyalist for life. From the cobblestones of Rome to the icy roads of Reykjavík, choppy ferry rides in Bora Bora to the dirt tracks of Patagonia, these bags have handled every kind of terrain — and still look great doing it. Through it all, my Away luggage has never let me down. And on the rare occasion something did go wrong, their customer service made it right instantly — often replacing a part (or even the whole suitcase) with just one quick email or call. The brand was founded in 2015 to create durable, stylish, and functional travel gear. They offer a range of hard-shell suitcases in various sizes, along with packing accessories and travel bags. What makes Away different? For starters, you get incredibly durable and high-quality suitcases for a great price point. The brand's original line of suitcases costs $395 or less. They come in a variety of colors and sizes and now have dozens of accessories such as packing cubes, tote bags and more that fit perfectly with all Away luggage. They also offer a 100-day trial (or return policy) and an incredible lifetime warranty. Away luggage warranty covers: Cracks or breaks in the shell Wheels, handles, or telescoping handles that break off and are no longer usable Zippers that can no longer be opened or closed Fabric tears that render the front pocket fabric non-functional My Review While I've tried a variety of Away models over the years, these days The Bigger Carry-On Flex, The Medium and The Large are on constant rotation depending on my travel needs. For long weekends, I reach for The Bigger Carry-On Flex. When I'm checking a bag but still want to travel light, The Medium gives me the extra space without the bulk. The Large is my go-to for extended getaways, big moves, or trips where I'll be planted in one or two places—like a tropical escape to Hawaii with stops on a couple of islands. But if I'm hopping between cities every few days, especially in Europe with cobblestones galore, I'll stick with The Medium to avoid lugging too much around. Pictured: The Bigger Carry-On Flex & The Large Durability While you can pretty much throw your Away luggage across the room without worrying about real damage, like any hard-shell suitcase, expect a few scuffs and scratches after some use. When I was choosing my first Bigger Carry-On, I debated between classic black and light pink. In the end, I went with the fun choice: pink. Both that carry-on and my black Medium suitcase have their fair share of markings, but nothing that detracts from their overall look or quality. The structure has held up beautifully, and the cosmetic wear is just a sign of well-traveled bags. As previously mentioned in this review, a few years later, I upgraded to The Bigger Carry-On Flex in black, not because of damage, but because adulting meant trading pink for black and finally admitting I always overpack. Size and Space The interior compression systems within each of Away's luggage have been a game-changer when it comes to the number of items I can pack. Just a few months before the pandemic hit, I traveled to Iceland for four nights in January 2020. (It was an unforgettable experience and my last international trip for nearly a year, though I'd recommend going in spring for longer daylight and more predictable weather.) I managed to pack snow boots, sneakers, two thick cable-knit sweaters, and all my other cold-weather essentials into my Bigger Carry-On. Similarly, in 2024, I packed for two climates on a 2.5-week trip to Argentina using my Medium suitcase, which held thick sweaters, denim, rain boots, a puffer jacket, and more — no problem at all. Pictured: The Bigger Carry-On Flex Specific Specs (Bigger Carry-On) Exterior : 22.7″ x 15.4″ x 9.6″ (57.7 x 39.1 x 24.4 cm) : 22.7″ x 15.4″ x 9.6″ (57.7 x 39.1 x 24.4 cm) Interior : 20.9″ x 15″ x 7.9″ (53.1 x 38.1 x 20.1 cm) : 20.9″ x 15″ x 7.9″ (53.1 x 38.1 x 20.1 cm) Weight : 7.9 lbs (3.6 kg) : 7.9 lbs (3.6 kg) Capacity: 47.9 L Note: dimensions include wheels. Other features include a durable polycarbonate shell, 360 degree spinner wheels, a TSA-approved combination lock for enhanced security, an interior compression system to help maximize packing space, water-resistant polyester laundry bag, an additional grab handle (located on the underside for easy lifting) and my favorite spec of all, a nesting capability for efficient storage at home. Pros & Cons Since I've tested several sizes and models over the years, for this section, I'll focus on the Bigger Carry-On for clarity. Pros: Spacious and lightweight Durable hard shell 360° spinner wheels Built-in removable USB charger The Flex version offers extra packing space when needed Interior features a compression system and a removable laundry bag to help keep packing organized Cons: When flying on smaller planes or international flights, the Bigger Carry-On (especially the expandable version) may not fit in all overhead bins Personalizations Away offers a couple of fun ways to make your suitcase feel more personal. For $50, you can add a hand-painted monogram (up to three letters) by New York artist Jen Mussari, with several font and color options to choose from. While this is my favorite customization feature by far, you can also add an engraved luggage tag for $10 if you're looking for something more subtle. How We Tested All three suitcases were put through the wringer over seven years of travel, tested on multiple flights across a range of airlines — including tiny hopper planes in French Polynesia. They endured hotel transfers, baggage claims, car rides, and plenty of overhead bin Tetris. Each was packed to full capacity (not a hard feat!) to assess space and structure. For the carry-on, we also ran it through TSA checkpoints to evaluate ease of laptop removal, liquid access, and bin compatibility. We scored each bag using the following criteria: Durability : Based on visible wear after repeated flights and handling : Based on visible wear after repeated flights and handling Functionality : Interior organization, ease of transport, and built-in features : Interior organization, ease of transport, and built-in features Design & Aesthetic : Style, color options, and social feedback (yes, compliments count) : Style, color options, and social feedback (yes, compliments count) Value: Overall quality compared to price and competitors Away Travel The Final Verdict As a travel enthusiast and commerce journalist of nearly seven years, I've tried my fair share of suitcases over the years. Even when my sister worked at another luxury luggage brand for four years, I didn't take advantage of her (very generous) family discount. My loyalty to Away runs too deep. I love how sleek they look, how easy they glide and most importantly, how long they last! With 40 countries under my belt and plans to check many more off the list in the coming years, I can happily say that I won't be letting go of my Away Luggage anytime soon. If you're considering giving Away Luggage a try, you've got nothing to lose. Their 100-day return policy lets you travel with it, truly put it to the test, and if it's not for you, send it back for a full refund or exchange. But honestly? I doubt you'll want to. Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted. For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America's go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We're not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren't already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we're known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.
CNN
a day ago
- CNN
15 best packing cubes, per travel experts
Packing cubes quick picks Best packing cubes: Away The Insider Packing Cubes Best budget packing cubes: Amazon Basics Packing Cubes Best compression packing cubes: Peak Design Packing Cubes Overpackers, meet packing cubes. These versatile fabric containers are designed to keep the inside of your luggage neat and organized, and they compress your clothes, so you can ultimately fit more stuff into your bag. They can therefore be a vital piece of travel gear, especially if you're vacationing for a few weeks or want to use only a carry-on suitcase for your trip. With numerous packing cube sets available from well-known brands and lesser-known manufacturers, discerning quality can be challenging. I've been in a situation before where I bought a cheap set from Amazon, only for the zippers to break on me while I'm packing a suitcase or for the material to fall apart after washing. So with the help of a travel expert, I sought to find the best packing cubes to meet every traveler's needs. A post shared by CNN Underscored (@cnnunderscored) Away The Insider Packing Cubes, Set of 4 Away is one of the best travel bag brands on the market, and its high-quality packing cubes are ideal thanks to robust zippers, lightweight materials and a variety of sizes. I particularly appreciate their mesh top and minimalist design. At $45, these are a great middle-of-the-road packing cube option. Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set, Set of 3 This packing cube set from Eagle Creek is a crowd favorite, and that's not just because the cubes are ultra lightweight and durable. Their water-resistance is also a plus, especially for beach vacations. Lonely Planet travel writer Phillip Tang loves his set for "their strong but light frame with chunky, smooth-running zippers." Cotopaxi 5L Del Dia Cubo Travel Cube Made out of Cotopaxi's deadstock nylon and polyester materials, this sustainable cube is also built to last thanks to a high-quality zipper, robust top and bottom panels and beautifully executed stitching. It also comes in 2- and 3-liter sizes. Cotopaxi Cubo Expandable Packing Cube If you want breathable packing cubes that air out your garments, you'll love this new release from Cotopaxi. Expandable and compressible, this packing cube comes in two sizes, boasts a lightweight mesh material and has a top handle that gives it a more unique design. Thule Clean/Dirty Packing Cube "Packing cubes with dual compartments are great for organizing your items and to also separate clean clothes from dirty," said Andrea Zoellner, a travel and packing blogger at The Capsule Suitcase. She loves this one from Thule in particular. Amazon Basics Packing Cubes, Set of 4 If you're looking for a bargain, this set of four packing cubes from Amazon is the way to go, especially since Amazon sells several different sets with a variety of size combinations. Gonex Compression Packing Cubes Gonex's packing cubes have a unique, laptop bag-esque design, which gives them a flatter format. However, they still fit nicely in a carry-on and are expandable. Make no mistake: While the set is under $50, the zipper, material and stitching quality are primed for years of use. Bagsmart Blast Packing Cubes, Set of 6 If you've read any of my other travel bag guides, you already know that I'm a big Bagsmart fan. The aptly named brand has a knack for designing affordable yet highly versatile bags, and this $50 packing cube set is no different. It includes five differently sized expandable pieces and also comes with a shoe bag that can be used as a backpack. REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cubes, Set of 3 While it does flirt with the mid-range level, REI's under-$50 offering is still a great budget option, especially if you're seeking a sturdy, expandable set that'll fill half of your hard-shell carry-on. The mesh panel keeps things breathable, while ripstop water-repellent nylon fabric makes them perfect for adventures. Tripped Compression Packing Cubes, Set of 7 Though this Tripped set start at $50, you're getting seven compressible packing cubes, and four of those are large in size. If you're trying to pack just one big checked suitcase for your couple's vacation or family getaway, this provides a lot of bang for your buck. There's even a laundry sack that's designed to keep odors in with its roll-top design. Calpak Medium Compression Packing Cubes, Set of 2 Calpak is one of my favorite affordable travel bag brands, and its medium compression packing cubes are some of my go-tos. The surprisingly thick and robust material, combined with smooth zippers, makes them among the best packing cubes on the market in the mid-range aisle. I also love the fun designs and colors they come in. Peak Design Packing Cubes, Set of 3 "For backpackers, it's all about getting the weight down, so go for a thin and light rip-stop fabric," Tang said. That's exactly what this Peak Design packing cube set offers. Its lightweight ripstop nylon material features water resistance, double stitching and premium zippers. The non-shoe pouch cubes even come with a second compartment for storing your dirty clothes. Matador Gear Cubes, Set of 3 These packing cubes from Matador are not compressible in the traditional sense. Instead of an expansion panel and a wraparound zipper, they come with a bucket-shaped design and adjustable end straps that you can use to cinch them shut. I love the nice little extras, such as the water-resistant two-way zippers and the lash points. This set is among the best packing cubes for adventure travelers. Monos Compressible Packing Cubes, Set of 4 Zoellner loves these Monos packing cubes as "they come in a variety of sizes, they are high quality, and offer the option for compression." Personally, I also love that their sizes are like pieces of a puzzle that perfectly fit in a carry-on suitcase. Bellroy Lite Packing Cube Zoellner also speaks highly of Bellroy's offerings, which you can buy individually or as a bundle, and come in sizes of 4, 6. and 12 liters. "I'm a fan of lightweight but tough gear that can adapt to short and long trips," she said. "These Bellroy ones can expand to offer more space as needed." Don't just get the cheapest packing cube set you find on Amazon. When you start shopping around for packing cubes, you'll notice that there are hundreds of options that are very similar to each other. To whittle down your list, you have to look for the following. Build quality: Many cheap options on the market aren't very sturdy. I know from experience that it's not a good idea to buy these, and you'll end up buying another set after a few uses. 'Packing cubes are meant to be stuffed over and over again,' Zoellner said, 'so the quality of the fabric, zippers and stitching are really important. You'll want a sturdy nylon fabric that is easy to clean, and seams and a zipper that won't bust open.' To check zipper quality, Tang recommended 'drag[ing] them back and forth quickly to see if they are likely to catch or stick when you are frantically packing before checkout.' Breathability: 'If you don't need waterproofing,' Tang said, 'avoid thick plastic packing cubes — you might end up with smelly clothes. Clothes need to breathe.' When choosing a mesh option, however, make sure that it's durable enough. 'The first thing to fail is the netting, so tug at the mesh to see if it can take it,' he said. Size variety: If you're anything like me and prefer to organize your clothes by type, you'll want a set with different-sized packing cubes. You can use the big ones for your pants and shirts. Meanwhile, the small ones can house your underwear and accessories. There's also another advantage of having size variety: 'Having a few different shapes and dimensions (such as long and rectangular or large and square) will give you more versatility and allow you to use more cubes in your suitcase,' said Zoellner. Compression: Most packing cubes are designed to provide some level of compression, but if you want to pack your suitcase with as many clothes as it can accommodate, it's a good idea to choose compression packing cubes specifically. These cubes can be expanded and then compressed to allow more clothes in without taking up more space. Travel style: Zoellner advises factoring in your travel style when choosing the best packing cube for your needs. 'Avoid making an impulse purchase without thinking about your unique needs and travel style,' she said. 'Someone who only travels with a small clamshell suitcase will likely benefit from different packing cubes, say a traditional zip-top rectangular style, than someone who backpacks, who may want something with more compression and a handle to pull it out from a densely packed sack.' Price: A high price doesn't always mean the best quality and vice versa. Know that even though there are packing cubes that will cost you over $100, you can find top-quality ones that are under $100 and even under $25. I enlisted the help of Lonely Planet travel writer and luggage geek Phillip Tang to answer these frequently asked questions about packing cubes. How do packing cubes work? How do packing cubes work? Packing cubes are zippered fabric compartments that let you neatly organize, pack and even compress your folded clothes in your luggage. Usually available in packs, they're very easy to use: Simply unzip a cube, pack it with as many clothes as you can without overstuffing it, zip and put it in your travel bag. How do you use packing cubes like an expert? How do you use packing cubes like an expert? Tang said that if you are packing a deep, soft-sided suitcase, pack cubes like books on a shelf to see everything at a glance without having to dig. You can even label them. Another pro move is to use varied colors. 'It's tempting to go for a matching set of packing cubes,' said Tang, 'but varied colours and styles make it easier to spot what you're looking for without unzipping. I choose blue for cold-weather clothes, red for short-sleeved T-shirts and a neon green for valuables so I won't leave them behind. Other colors match what's inside.' Do packing cubes wrinkle clothing? Do packing cubes wrinkle clothing? They can. Unlike garment bags, which are specifically designed to avoid wrinkles, packing cubes are not designed for that purpose. However, there are things you can do to minimize wrinkles, such as not overstuffing a cube, folding your clothes neatly before packing them, and ensuring that there's not a lot of room for movement in the cube and in your luggage. Can you use a packing cube in a carry-on? Can you use a packing cube in a carry-on? Absolutely! In fact, some packing cube sets are designed to fit one side of a carry-on compartment perfectly. However, you can also use packing cubes in a weekender bag, a travel backpack or a checked luggage. For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Andrea Zoellner, co-founder of Keiko Furoshiki, and a travel and packing blogger at The Capsule Suitcase. Phillip Tang, luggage geek and Lonely Planet travel writer, passionate about his two loves: Latin America and Asia. CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors with many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products who ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we test each product accurately and only recommend the best products while considering the pros and cons of each item. Testing writer Michelle Rae Uy has years of experience covering travel and travel product reviews as a former travel writer. She wrote some of our best-tested travel guides, including the best weekender bags, the best personal items bags and the best travel pillows. She also wrote about accessible travel gear and solo travel essentials.
Forbes
3 days ago
- Forbes
Miraval At 30: The Iconic Wellness Brand Expands To The Red Sea
Scheduled to open this winter, Miraval The Red Sea is set on three million square feet of coastline on the southern edge of Shura Island. Miraval Resorts Thirty years is a long time to stay relevant in the wellness business, especially when you helped invent it. Before TikTok therapists, matcha influencers and corporate breathwork retreats, there was Miraval. When the flagship property opened in the Sonoran Desert in 1995, the idea of a luxury resort dedicated to mind-body-spirit healing was basically fringe. Today, 'wellness' is a booming $6.3 trillion global industry, with rivals like Canyon Ranch, Sensei, SHA and the Goop industrial complex staking claims. Next year, a splashy new resort and longevity center called the Estate, developed by Sam Nazarian and Tony Robbins, opens in Los Angeles as part of a feel-better venture that will launch 15 wellness hotels and residences by 2030. And yet, Miraval remains a Zen-like leader, doubling down on what it does best (and without showing much sweat on its brow). Part of Hyatt's luxury portfolio since 2017, Miraval is marking its 30th anniversary with a bold expansion this winter called Miraval The Red Sea. It's the brand's first international location and the only wellness-focused hotel on Shura Island, a pristine stretch of Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast being developed into a major 'sustainable tourism' destination, with properties under construction by Four Seasons, Fairmont, Raffles, Rosewood and others. Set across more than three million square feet of beach and desert landscape, the new Miraval resort will feature 180 rooms and villas, extensive spa and fitness offerings, a Life in Balance Culinary Kitchen, and immersive new experiences, including Hammam Journeys and a Middle Eastern take on Miraval's signature floating meditation therapy. Miraval The Berkshires is part of an expanding group of Miraval properties that also includes resorts in Arizona, Austin and on the Red Sea (opening this winter) Miraval Resorts The move underscores the staying power of a brand that takes the long view on wellness. While the landscape has exploded (and sometimes imploded) with gimmicks and guru hype, Miraval's approach has always stayed true to the basics of its original 1995 mission: helping people unplug, reflect and just chill out a little. Miraval opens its first global property this winter There are now locations in Arizona, Austin and the Berkshires and each one reflects a slightly different flavor of the core idea that launched Miraval 30 years ago. That mindfulness doesn't require mysticism, mumbo-jumbo or an ego trip to help you know yourself better. To mark the 30-year milestone and learn more about what's next (including that ambitious Red Sea opening) I spoke with Heather David, Director of Digital & Brand Marketing at Miraval Resorts & Spas. We talked about how the brand has evolved, what makes a Miraval experience feel different from the competition and why a horse might be the best therapist you never knew you needed. David Hochman: Looking back over 30 years, how has the Miraval philosophy of wellness evolved and what's stayed the same? Heather David: When Miraval opened in the Sonoran Desert back in 1995, the idea of a destination resort entirely devoted to holistic well-being was virtually unheard of. Nobody was leading with mindfulness or talking about things like sound baths or equine therapy or floating meditation. We also didn't yet understand the overwhelming impact of social media and digital overload. Today the idea of mind, body, spirit is pretty much part of the mainstream and we're all trying to figure out how to find space away from digital distractions and stress. What hasn't changed is that people still come for the reason they always came, which is to find the space to reconnect with themselves , including the messy, beautiful, complicated parts of themselves. So while you can come for a massage or to play golf, Miraval gives space for deeper emotional work, for clarity, and for healing. Not just pampering. From left to right, Miraval Austin, Arizona and The Berkshires Miraval Resorts We've grown by listening to our guests, our practitioners and the world around us. That's why we've expanded into places like Austin and the Berkshires. It's why we're moving deeper into digital mindfulness, into expressive healing, and into new life stages like postpartum and menopause support. And this year, we're going global with our first international resort. That's a huge step forward as far as meeting people wherever they are, quite literally. Hochman: What can you say about Miraval The Red Sea? David: That Red Sea project is incredibly close to my heart. Creating our first global destination has taught us how universal this work really is. People everywhere are craving presence, meaning and space to reconnect. And the Red Sea property is just such a beautiful place to do that. It's on Shura Island on three million square feet of beaches on the southern end of the island. We doing some innovative takes on classic Miraval Resort experiences, like our Vasudhara warm-water floating meditation. Plus, we're introducing Hammam Journeys, which is a new offering within the Miraval Resorts & Spas portfolio. The project really brings the work we're doing to a new level. I'm really excited about it. How to stand out in a travel world where 'wellness' is everywhere Hochman: 'Wellness' is now everywhere, from corporate retreats and meditation apps to airport yoga rooms. In general, how does Miraval stand out? David: Well, partly because we were among the first to put healing, transformation and mindfulness at the center, we've have time to develop and adjust the programs. That means bringing in the best practitioners and figuring out what guests want and what maybe doesn't work as well. I like to say we're about practice, not performance. And we're also accessible. Conversations by the pool often go past the surface. Guests return year after year because they know they can come exactly as they are, whether they're seeking clarity, connection or just a place to exhale. We love when our guests feel safe and comfortable enough to dine in their spa robes, show their vulnerable sides in a workshop, and then want to share their stories and aha moments with our colleagues and other guests. We also created some first-of-their-kind experiences like equine therapy and aerial yoga. We created Vasudhara, our water-based meditation experience, that's a signature at our Arizona resort. And we're constantly adding new programming to meet people where they are, whether that's midlife, menopause support, new parenthood, burnout or just seeking clarity. The idea, as always, is to continue to meet our guests at whatever stage they are at in their life's journey and invite them to explore where they want to go. Classic treatments and what's next at Miraval Hochman: The equine therapy program has always been a standout. David: That's been a signature since it was created by Wyatt Webb in the early days. People sign up thinking it's going to be a lighthearted thing with horses. But it's often a catalyst. The surprise is that it's not about riding so much as it's about reflection. The horse becomes a mirror. You're understanding yourself better, in relation to the horses, with a lot of non-verbal cues and non-verbal communication. You're tapping into presence, body language, listening, confidence. It's really quite profound and at this point, the program is really part of the Miraval DNA. Hochman: Now that Miraval has celebrated the big 3-0, what's next for the brand? David: We're constantly evolving. In 2025, in addition to Miraval The Red Sea, we've introduced new workshops focused on creative expression, sexuality and relationships, and life transitions pre-natal, post-partum, and peri-menopause. We have some new fitness experiences that encourage active play and we're continuing to expand our outdoor adventure offerings to help guests connect more deeply with nature and with themselves. I always say that whether it's a first visit or a tenth, there's always something new to discover, because our approach to well-being is so responsive and always rooted in meaning. The interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
