💌 grown alchemist, detour destinations, belgium travel guide

TODAY IS WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8

WHAT TO EXPECT

• stories: detour destinations & noctourism, want a raise?, elevated loungewear
• listen to this: What Now
• in collaboration with: Grown Alchemist
• job seekers: project coordinator, content creator, business development rep
• extra stories
• quote: on self development/eduction
• bon voyage: Antwerp, Belgium

TRAVEL: DETOUR DESTINATIONS & NOCTOURISM
"Detour destinations" are gaining popularity as travelers seek cheaper alternatives to major hotspots, with spots like Reims (near Paris) and Brescia (near Milan) seeing more visitors due to rising travel costs – up 10% since 2019. Another trend is "goods getaways" where people travel specifically to find viral products they can't get at home, and "noctourism" for stargazing at dark sky sites like Arches National Park. Despite higher prices, travel demand remains strong, with air travel up 4% domestically and 3% internationally compared to last year. And for those struggling with travel planning, AI-assisted itineraries are expected to become a popular tool in 2025!

WORK LIFE: WANT A RAISE?
Asking for an increase in your pay rate can definitely be a daunting task. It can cause you to be super nervous and even fearful that your request will be denied, thus leaving you embarrassed. That’s why it’s imperative that you understand the importance of timing. Let’s say you’re at peak performance review season or have been taking on additional responsibilities for at least the past six months, that puts you in good standing for consideration! When making the request, you should prepare concrete evidence of your value, including KPIs, project successes, and additional responsibilities, but be sure you’ve also researched competitive salary data for accuracy. It’s recommended that you ask for slightly more than the ideal raise you’d prefer, simply to allow room for negotiation. It may go without saying, but if you’re not planning on sticking with the company for some time (& have made it pretty evident with colleagues/bosses), maybe don’t ask for that raise.

FASHION: ELEVATED LOUNGEWEAR SEASON
After the rush of December, it's time to embrace cozy comfort without sacrificing style this month. You can look put-together while relaxing at home by pairing luxe basics like cashmere sets or elevated sweatsuits with thoughtful touches – think patterned socks, layered necklaces, or a sleek wool coat for quick errands. For extra warmth, layer with HEATTECH basics under statement pieces like Fair Isle sweaters or teddy jackets. Even pajamas can transition to casual outings when styled with a long-sleeve tee and cool sneakers. Whether you're hosting a movie night or grabbing coffee, these elevated loungewear options let you stay comfortable while looking polished.

Listen to What Now, where Trevor Noah sits with entrepreneurs, coaches, celebrities, athletes, and other entertainers for deeper conversations. They delve into contemporary topics that sit on everyone’s mind, but on another level.
P.S - if you’re a podcast watcher, they’re on youtube!

IN COLLABORATION WITH

Grown Alchemist was born from the belief that skin health + wellness is holistic, impacted by the world around us. From exfoliators to handwash and sunscreen, they make cult favorite products. They deliver clinically proven, plant-based formulas using biotech + biomimetic ingredients to optimize skin function, supercharged with treatments, tech + experiences that go beyond a traditional beauty brand.

Some of our favorites: Gel facial cleanser, Lip balm, Body cleanser

Project coordinator, SIETE FOODS (on-site, TX): You will track and communicate packaging artwork needs within new launches & change management, and coordinate the generation of press files with the creative agency through proof approval with suppliers. You will also work with marketing, regulatory, R&D, quality, and commercialization to collect graphics inputs, and coordinate graphics reviews/approvals according to the timeline due dates.

Business development Rep (Manhattan), POPPI (remote): You will upsell and merchandise, which includes engaging with retailers to upsell Poppi products and expand distribution in both refrigerated (cold) and ambient (warm) placements. You’ll also build and maintain strong relationships with store managers and staff to foster long-term partnerships and brand loyalty.

Content creator, NYC IVF (on-site, NYC): You will film + create content for the company while maintaining a 15-day-ready calendar at all times. You should be able to work independently, especially with setting deadlines for yourself, and ideally will have experience in Meta, tiktok, Linkedin, and Wordpress.

❤️ in search of a side quest?

☕️ using maternity leave to the fullest

👗 the best dressed at the golden globes

ON SELF DEVELOPMENT/EDUCATION: Formal education will make you a living; self-education will make you a fortune — Jim Rohn

While formal education (schools, universities) provides knowledge and skills for traditional employment, self-education is driven by curiosity, initiative, and continuous learning. This can lead to exceptional wealth through entrepreneurship, innovation, and identifying unique opportunities. Remember, the word knowledge has nothing to do with an institution, but rather whats in your brain. Be a student of life forever.

ANTWERP, BELGIUM

EAT: Make a reservation at the Cafe Restaurant Bourla for Belgian comfort food. Visit the Het Archief Wine Bar hidden in a former 1850 library which features a metal spiral staircase like a corkscrew right up the middle. Head to Me & My Monkey for a coffee or fresh orange juice. Shellfish is a Belgian cuisine staple and Fiskebar has some of the best quality fish in town. For a delicious and beautiful 5 course menu, consider the Album.

STAY: For an ultra luxorious experience, stay at the 5-star Botanic Sanctuary where every room feels like a sanctuary itself and some rooms also include a private sauna or whirlpool. Another great modern hotel is Hotel Franq which also has a michelin star restaurant on the property.

DO: For shopping, head to Kloosterstraat, a street with design shops, galleries and vintage clothing stores. You’ll definitely want to visit the stunning central railway station that inaugurated in 1905. There are plenty of bookstores in Antwerp as well such as the Stad Leest, Luddites, and The Other Shop.