The air really is different in the high desert. It’s a place that is equally good alone or shared with others. The thing I love most about Joshua Tree is that you are surrounded by nature and vast space, yet there are so many great spots that are buzzing with people - so few places have both.

Anyone who has spent time in Big Sur lights up when they talk about it. This 90 mile stretch of the California coast accomplishes the nearly impossible: fierce preservation of land and culture with well-oiled hospitality and recreation.

Merida is all the things - historic, posh, hip, local, warm and welcoming.