Where In The World Is Jennifer Santiago

Wildlife Care Center

2010-09-28T19:27:00.003-04:00

A visit to the largest wildlife care center in the Country.

Anamaya Resort - Montezuma, Costa Rica

2010-09-18T10:28:00.004-04:00


Enjoying the view from the infinity pool at Anamaya Resort

Day 1- Miami to Montezuma

Arriving in Montezuma is quite easy- with some advanced planning. In my case, I booked last minute and found no flights on either Sansa or Nature Air from San Jose to Tambor -- the closest airport to Montezuma. So- I was stuck taking the 7- hour public bus ride from the Coca Cola station in downtown San Jose to Montezuma. This was not a ride for the faint of heart-- giant potholes... steep climbs...torrential downpours...barely-there-bridges. So- imagine my relief when I arrived at Anamaya Resort and found out I was staying in their Bali Suite. The one- room, floor-to-ceiling-windowed, wood-floored villa boasts a direct view of the Gulf of Nicoya and an outdoor tub/shower. Absolute heaven. I fell asleep to the sweet sounds of waves crashing on shore and the chirps, howls and mating calls of Costa Rican wildlife. Sweet dreams indeed.

Day 2- Yoga With A View

Anayama regularly holds yoga retreats and teacher trainings. So- every morning I started my day with a nearly two-hour practice facing the Gulf of Nicoya. The deck sits in the shade and the view is breathtaking. Anayama hires highly-experienced teachers who tailor their practice to their students' various levels. In my case- as an experienced Yogini- I was able to work on perfecting Scorpion and back bends. This was a perfect, nurturing environment to take my practice to the next level- or just meditate and stretch after a long day of surfing. Aside from Yoga, Anamaya fosters a healthy-living environment by providing only organic and local food. The fish is caught daily. The fruits and vegetables are pesticide free and they even offer gluten-free dining. Dinner is served around a large, wooden dining table so you can enjoy your meal with guests.

Day 3- Surfs up!

My retreat was a yoga/surfing vacation. I have never surfed before, so Anamaya set me up with a local teacher/guide from Uruguay who has been surfing for 20 years. We had to hike about a 1/2 hour to our location on a nearby beach. Boards are provided, and I was able -after many falls- to finally get my balance and ride the waves. Surfing, like yoga, is highly addictive once you get the hang of it. It is such a meditative experience. And feeling so connected to nature is what keeps surfers constantly searching for that perfect wave. But- beware... the ocean will exhaust you. After my first day of surfing, I was battered, bruised and physically spent.

Day 4- Isla Tortuga

A half-hour boat ride from Montezuma beach took us to Isla Tortuga. On the way- we spotted Humpback whales taking a break before their migration to Hawaii. Isla Tortuga is an isolated island with a beautiful beach. The water was warm. And- our crew consisted of a chef who cooked fresh catch on the island with potatoes and fresh fruit. They even sliced open some coconut for us while we waited for lunch. I spent the 2 hours we had onshore (this was snorkling trip as well) walking the sand, collecting volcanic rock and making friends with a Javelina who lives on the island and is fed quite generously by the constant stream of tourists.

Day 5- Montezuma Town

Montezuma is a sleepy, hippie/surfer Pueblo. There is one bar: Chicos-- which plays Reggae music on Thursday nights. There are several restaurants including Sano Banano which shows movies on Tuesday nights. My favorite place for lunch in town is Organico Cafe - an all-vegan restaurant with the most amazing vegan shakes I have ever tasted and a great falafel platter. Nearby Santa Teresa and Mal Pais have a more active night-life scene. But- since my vacation centered around surfing and yoga, I skipped the evening activities for quiet evenings with the host, staff and guests at Anamaya.

Day 6-Horseback Riding

Anamaya books several private tours for guests using experienced, bi-lingual guides. On my last full-day I went on a 3- hour horseback ride along the beach to a secluded waterfall. My guide gave me a quick refresher on riding, but since I had some experience and my horse was extremely cooperative, this ride was rather easy. We trotted along the beach- picking up the pace where the sand was compact and smooth. We also took our horses further inland at times- navigating some steep hills. This was a beautiful experience and a great way to get to some hard-to-find spots for perfecting swimming/sunbathing.

The Best Pizza in Miami

2010-09-15T18:32:00.002-04:00

Full Moon Drum Circle on Miami Beach

2010-08-31T19:21:00.002-04:00

A Human Canvas

2010-08-18T21:48:00.002-04:00

Here are the photos from my shoot with the AMAZING, award-winning photographer Joao Carlos www.joaocarlosphoto.com. Just a few moments together and he came up with this concept to transform me into this powerful Geisha. Incredible creative process from start to finish. I will post the Plum TV story shortly. I have to admit, I felt really comfortable in this video-game-character-alter-ego. If only every day was Halloween...

Behind The Scenes of Plum Daily

2010-08-02T22:20:00.008-04:00

Modeling for Award Winning Photographer Joao Carlos

Having a laugh with Idris Elba

Shooting at The Betsey Hotel with the Bar Lab Mixologists

Celebrity Make-up Artist Scott Barnes

Modeling at Scoop, The Shore Club

Josh shares a drink with his hero Anthony Bourdain

An interview at the Miami Dolphins Practice Facility

On set at The Raleigh Penthouse

Alonzo Mourning talks about The Summer Groove

A one-on-one with Estelle

Enjoying a quiet moment and a beautiful view

Travel Tuesday- Adwa, Ethiopia

2010-07-20T10:52:00.000-04:00

This is a story I put together after traveling to Adwa, Ethiopia with a doctor from Miami. Dr. Maggioni volunteers his services two weeks out of the year, every year, to take care of orphans and pregnant mothers in the area. I lived at the JNM Children's Village for one week with Dr. Maggione and the founders of the orphanage who have dedicated their lives to taking care of abandoned children in a region with the highest rate of HIV/AIDS related deaths in the world.

A volunteer vacation is an amazing way to visit an exotic location while contributing to the local community. If you have medical experience, and are interested in helping, please visit their website www.ihealthi.org

Travel Tuesday-Haiti

2010-07-13T22:27:00.002-04:00

I have traveled to Haiti three times now. First to report on Christian Haitian Outreach's mission work with Haitian Orphans. Second, to report on a story about a man denied Temporary Protected Status in the U.S. who was deported to Haiti and forced to leave his wife and 3 children behind, despite living in the U.S. for 15 years. And, last, to cover the aftermath of a devastating hurricane that left thousands of people homeless or living on the roofs of their mud-soaked homes.

It shocks me that a country so close to our home can look so utterly foreign- void of sewage, trees, clean water, jobs, hospitals. And yet- even after the pledge to help Haiti after the January earthquake, the country remains in shambles with so little hope for so many.

Haiti is a difficult place to visit as a traveler. And, the State Department recently cautioned Americans regarding a rash of kidnappings to and from the Airport in Port-Au-Prince. And yet, I have found happiness among the despair. A beautiful culture. Vibrant people. Great music and and art work. Here are some photos from my travels to a country that will always have a place in my heart. My thoughts and prayers always for the first Black Republic.

Tracy & Alonzo Mourning Give Back

2010-07-12T08:58:00.006-04:00

As Miami gears up for Zo's Summer Groove --hosted by Alonzo Mourning and Dwayne Wade, I interview Zo's wife, Tracy, about her project "Honey Shine." The money raised for Alonzo Mourning Charities during The Groove benefits the young woman who participate in this empowering summer camp for at-risk girls.

Travel Tuesday- The Point of No Return Ouidah, Benin

2010-07-06T16:02:00.004-04:00

The Point of No Return is a UNESCO heritage site marking the exit point from West Africa to the Americas during the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade. From this beach in Ouidah, Benin, West Africa millions of slaves were captured, shackled, then marched to their enslavement or, in many cases, death. A shadow hangs over this beach. The sadness in the air is palpable. We stood on sands that are marred in blood and despair. And, a tour guide and translator who is, herself, a direct descendant of the most prolific Portuguese slave trader in Africa, explains the Point and her history.
This is a great travel article on the beaches of Ouidah and the history of The Point of No Return.

Wine Tasting 101

2010-07-05T18:48:00.001-04:00

I love wine, but unfortunately knew so little about the varietals and how to distinguish between all the different reds and whites. So- I enlisted a judge to give me, and our Plum TV viewers, tips on how to taste wine like a pro.

Travel Tuesday- Bungy jumping in Lake Taupo, NZ

2010-06-29T09:54:00.000-04:00

New Zealand is one of the most green, natural and wide-open countries I have every visited. On this trip I stayed North-- starting in Waiheke Island with its beautiful beaches, yummy wineries and quaint shops. The Boatshed was our home base-- a small B&B built on a cliff overlooking Onera beach. Breakfast, the view and easy access to the beach make it a great place to stay.

From quiet Waiheke we headed South to Rotorua. Rotorua is home to the Maori, hot springs, natural geysers and sulfur baths. It takes a full day to get acclimated to the smell of sulfur all around you. But, once you're used to it, it actually becomes quite pleasent. We took a day trip to Lake Taupo from Rotorua to hike, see the Huka Falls, bathe in natural hot springs and bungy New Zealand's highest water-touch jump.

Not much in life scares me. And, I like to think I was pretty calm before my leap (watch the video...you be the judge). But, truth be told, your entire nervous system screams NO with every heartbeat and missed breath as you stand at the edge of a cliff staring more than 150 feet below into the beautiful, blue water waiting for your cue. Yes- my heart was in my throat. But- the entire leap and free fall was exhilirating. Feeling the water on your face is a nice touch too.

Can't wait for my next jump!

Plum Daily

2010-06-28T23:14:00.000-04:00

This week Josh tackles the Tazer 2 workout. I interview Shake Shack's Danny Meyer-- the man also behind NYC's famed Gramercy Tavern. And we show you the best places to catch all the World Cup action in Miami.

Why Football is Better Than Futbol

2010-06-26T20:52:00.003-04:00

Now that Team USA is no longer in the running for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, it is time for us to concentrate on the one sport Americans rule... FOOTBALL. So- as much as I love soccer-- having spent a year living in the UK and really having no say in the matter- here is a humorous take on why Americans LOVE the action on the gridiron and will remain lukewarm on anything that happens on a pitch now that Landon Donovan and Co. are exiting South Africa. Thank you Fox Sports and thank you Team USA for a valiant effort.

Much better looking trophy given to the champions.

Overtime is sudden death ... first to score, wins.

Championships not decided by the random guessing game that is a penalty kick.

Football has cheerleaders.

Players only carried off field on stretchers for real, serious injuries.

There's no "magic spray" in football.

There's no pretending to be fouled.

There's no pretending to be hurt.

A blowout isn't 2-0.

Ties rarely ever happen.

Offsides rule in football easier to understand than offsides rule in soccer.

With obvious exception of Philly and Oakland, very few hooligans.

As amazing as this is to admit in light of the 2006 Super Bowl, referees are more competent in our football.

The U.S. would never lose to Ghana in a game of football.

Secrets of Miami- Pelican Harbor

2010-06-21T19:13:00.002-04:00

I know the oil spill is on our minds, as is the need to protect our wildlife. So- I visited a local animal rescue and rehabilitation center in Miami for Plum TV which specializes in treating injured pelicans and other birds.

Help Us Help Kids With Cancer

2010-06-16T19:25:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow from 6pm-10 pm I, along with Megan Harris of Plum TV and Jeff Berardelli of CBS 4 News, will be hosting a fundraiser to help children with cancer currently being treated at The Children's Cancer Caring Center. The center covers the cost of treatment for children at Baptist Hospital in Miami. The goal of the fundraiser is to cover the cost of taking 70 children bowling for the day. I don't need to tell you how important it is to get these kids out of the hospital for a day of fun.

The fundraiser is located at Bar 721 on Lincoln Lane. Free food. Free drinks and plenty of auction items. I am amazed at how many people contributed to make this happen. We will be auctioning off all the items listed below and I must say thank you to all our generous and caring donors. We are all so touched.

-1 year membership to Crunch Gym, Miami

-Signed Dwayne Wade, Miami Heat Jersey

-Joe Flacco (and nearly a dozen others) signed football from The Baltimore Ravens

-Signed Chad Henne, Miami Dolphins Helmet

-Weekend stay at Las Brisas Resort, Ixtapa, Mexico

-2 $150 certificates for dinner at Meat Market, Lincoln Road

-$100 certificate for dinner at The Angler's Boutique Resort

-$100 certificate towards any spa service at Sleek Medspa

-Bowling for 16 at Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge

-3 month unlimited yoga certificate to Prana Yoga

-Manicure/Pedicure at Aveda Spa at Palms Hotel and Spa.

Thank you to all these generous donors and all the Host Committee members.

Travel Tuesday- A Safari in Kenya

2010-06-15T11:31:00.000-04:00

I met this leopard on my first day on Safari in the Samburu National Reserve. I began my trip to Kenya in Nairobi- visiting the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Tsavo East. The trust cares for orphaned baby elephants-- hand feeding them bottled milk and walking them in a herd with keepers who share sleeping accommodations with each elephant...eventually releasing the babies out into the wild when they are ready.

From Nairobi, I flew to Samburu and stayed at the Samburu Serena Lodge- a rugged haven where your trips to the game reserve are handled ahead of time. This leopard walked within inches of our open-top Landcruiser. In the moment, I was completely unaware of the danger. Instead- I was drawn entirely by the beauty of this animal-- watching him stroll by with such grace and power, then climb up this tree and rest.

One of the highlights of my Kenya stay was a second trip to the Game Reserve where I stumbled upon a ceremony for Samburu Warrior adolsecents. They danced in an almost hypnotic state for hours- some collapsing in front of me. It was a "coming out" ceremony of sorts for these boys who were celebrating a graduation into "Senior Warrior" status. The elders celebrated as well, sitting under a nearby tree, eating raw meat and drinking calves' blood -- staples in the diet of these nomadic men who are also herders.

A Kenyan safari is a magical experience and I recommend visiting Tsavo, Samburu and The famous Masai Mara. I was also unexpectedly invited to visit Galdessa Lodge by the Italian owner of Alfajiri Villas-- in Diani Beach (near Mombasa). Alfajiri enjoyed a moment of fame when the international media found out that Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt vacationed there before their affair became public. The owner allowed me to film a story on his property- then whisked me away on a 4- hour drive to Galdessa. It is absolute luxury. The private, semi-tented, thatched-roof bungalows make you feel like you are actually in the middle of the Bush. I woke up one morning to the sound of a Rhino grazing just outside my room and watched a herd of elephants cross the nearby river. This area has the largest elephant population in Kenya and the Masai Warriors on-site can sense when there are animals in the vicinity. The Masai provide security on location--walking guests to and from their suites during the evening.

I can't wait for my next safari.

All New Plum Daily

2010-06-14T15:44:00.007-04:00

This is the debut of our brand new show "Plum Daily." We will continue to bring you the same great content you loved on The Juice-- just a different look and a different name. In this episode, I talk to the Mayor of Miami Beach about local preparations if the oil spill were to reach our shores. I also visit a local bird sanctuary that rescues and rehabilitates injured wildlife. And on a lighter note, Josh and I talk about the 2010 FIFA World Cup and all the great places to catch the games all over Miami. Even some Miami Dolphins pipe in about the 'other' football.

Travel Tuesday- Santiago De Atitlan, Guatemala

2010-06-07T23:06:00.005-04:00

I have never hiked with Pitbulls before. But, when you travel alone to one of the kidnapping capitals of the world (so my guides say) protection isn't a bad thing. This is a shot from a two- hour hike I took with two guides packing heat (and Pitbulls) while staying in Santiago De Atitlan. SDA is a colorful little village on the southern bay of breathtaking Lake Atitlan and home of the Tzutujil Mayans- the last people to give in to the Spanish Conquistadores. What does that tell you? These are a proud people who keep their traditions and are willing to share.

I stayed at the Posada de Santiago - a rustic but adorable Bed & Breakfast with cottages etched out of volcanic stone. The hotel put me in touch with local guides (American Expats Jim & Nancy) who took me both on foot and horseback (the Pitbulls loved to motivate the horses to keep moving) along hiking trails where we witnessed magnificent sunsets falling behind the volcanoes. I arrived in Antigua first. Then took a bus to Panajachel and a water taxi to Santiago De Atitlan from there. I recommend visiting all three. When in Antigua you MUST hike the active Pacaya volcano- safety permitting. Here are some more pictures from my travels.

Asana of The Month- King Pigeon

2010-06-06T18:42:00.004-04:00

So I've decided to pick one pose each month to practice daily. This month I'm choosing King Pigeon (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana) which I didn't hold long enough for this picture taken in Bocas Del Toro, Panama, because it requires reaching my foot with both hands.

Pigeon, and all its modifications, is not just a beautiful pose to master, but it has both physical and emotional benefits. My yoga teachers have told me that this extreme hip opener also invites emotional release. We store a lot of built up emotions in our hips. Once we release our hips, long-suppressed feelings tend to come out as well. That is why I have often found myself unexpectedly greeted with a stream of tears when holding this pose for a prolonged period of time. Our daily lives are not good for hip flexibility. Sitting behind a desk and stress tighten our hips. But this pose will allow you to bring much needed relief to an area that tends to cling to tension. This pose also helps maintain flexibility in the lower back. Beware- if you have a knee injury Pigeon will be very challenging. A good yoga teacher will help you with modifications so you can enter the pose slowly.

Book of The Month- Written on The Body

2010-06-01T21:58:00.003-04:00

“No one can legislate love; it cannot be given orders or cajoled into service. Love belongs to itself, deaf to pleading and unmoved by violence. Love is not something you can negotiate. Love is one thing stronger that desire and the only proper reason to resist temptation.”

We do not know if the love- sick narrator in "Written on The Body" is a man or a woman. It is an interesting literary device-- used I suppose to prove that the pain of unrequited love- the torment, the insatiable addiction to flesh and passion, knows no gender. We do know our narrator had his/her difficulties with fidelity past the sixth month until he/she meets Louise- a fiery, red-head seemingly stuck in a love-less marriage to an Orthodox Jewish Oncologist. He/she seems ready to finally commit and Louise agrees to leave her husband. Then, tragedy strikes. I won't reveal what - less I spoil the plot. I don't, however, know that the story matters in "Written on The Body." Rather- it is the writing that drives the narrative forward and keeps the reader mesmerized. Winterson is a master of words. And her poetry makes this book worth the read alone.

"Written on The Body" begs the question, 'why is the measure of love, loss?' And for anyone who has experienced love lost, "Written on the Body" is the book that most masterfully puts words to feeling.

Help Stop The Seal Hunt

2010-05-26T23:31:00.009-04:00

America's Next Top Model Judge, Nigel Barker, has been traveling to the ice floes off the Eastern Coast of Canada for the last eight years to help bring attention to the plight of the seals. Every year, thousands of seals are brutally slaughtered by Canadian Seal Hunters- despite international outrage.

Nigel Barker spoke with me recently about the hunt and his crusade to stop it. He also was in town to photograph some of Miami's top chefs who have joined the boycott of Canadian seafood to help pressure the Canadian government to end the hunt.

You can join the boycott too by not eating seafood from Canada.

Sex And The City 2

2010-05-25T16:53:00.005-04:00

Every city is buzzing with events leading up to the big SATC2 premiere and Miami is NO exception. So- how am I going to channel my inner Miranda/ Samantha/ Carrie/Charlotte? (My personality, by the way, is a Carrie/Charlotte tie according to THIS QUIZ).

First, Wednesday night, The Vibe is hosting a VIP, pink -carpet-entry party at 1111 Lincoln Road where items from SJP's SATC2 wardrobe will be on display.

Then, Thursday night, Rik Rak Salon and Chevy are treating Miami's top female bloggers (me included...honored!) to complete makeovers before whisking us all away in a Chevy SUV to an evening screening at Regal Cinema.

Channeling my inner Carrie/Charlotte in T-Minus 24 hours. But...my gosh! What should I wear??

Alvin Ailey at The Arsht Center

2010-05-20T23:56:00.009-04:00

I just came back from the first of two Alvin Ailey performances at the Adrienne Arsht Center. The picture above is from the piece titled "In/Side" performed by Jamar Roberts (not in photo) and set to the song "Wild is The Wind" by Nina Simone. I was not prepared for the emotions this piece tore from my heart.

The dance is a lover's cry. It appears his pleas have fallen on deaf ears and so he has gone mad with heartbreak. Alvin Ailey dancers are known for their beauty, strength and passion and Roberts is not only no exception, but his physique, agility and grace are exceptional. His moves were often manic-- purposely missing the beat of the music-- exiting his body with the violence of a limber child possessed. In calmer moments the performance was fluid, angelic and soft.

I cannot get this piece out of my head. And, the show had the entire audience on their feet with both applause and awe. Don't miss a chance to see this famed dance company while they are still in Miami. This weekend only.

Pamper Your Pet

2010-05-19T20:25:00.010-04:00

If you love your dog as much as I love Nikkita, then you want to make sure your pet gets the best. That means a healthy diet (I recommend raw, organic food), regular grooming with a gentle touch (4 Paws Only is THE BEST) and plenty of exercise. So watch this segment of Plum Picks with Nikkita as my co-host. It is the cutest Picks yet.

Secrets of Miami- Wat Buddharangsi

2010-05-17T09:57:00.010-04:00

Here is the video of my trip to Wat Buddharangsi in The Redland as it appeared on The Juice on Plum TV. And for more "Secrets," check out Plum TV's website.

Wat Buddharangsi- A 'Secret of Miami'

2010-05-07T14:43:00.006-04:00

Coming soon... my story on a Thai Buddhist monastery (from the Theravada tradition) in The Redlands.

On The Juice-Celebrate Mother's Day in Miami

2010-05-03T17:48:00.004-04:00

Remember how you used to make breakfast for mom on Mother's Day? Well- hopefully you don't live at home with mom anymore. So, here are some suggestions on great places around Miami to take mom to brunch. Also- my former CBS 4 colleague, Dr. Sean Kenniff, and I talk about an alarming health headline this week on "The Juice" --nearly half of all Americans are at risk for heart disease.

Book of The Month- My Miserable, Lonely, Lesbian Pregnancy

2010-04-17T19:40:00.000-04:00

"No one says feeling miserable is a side effect. Everyone talks about pregnancy bliss and the prenatal glow. This is the worst experience of my life. When people ask, How are you? I say, 'I've never felt worse.' I'm antisocial, fat and scared."

I must say off the top, in the interest of full disclosure, I would not have picked this book off the shelf had I not met Andrea Askowitz. She is the co-creator of Lip Service- a literary meet-up in Miami where writers share 8 minute biographical stories with an audience. She is also a friend of Dr. Sean Kenniff, author of Etre The Cow. So, Andrea and I met when I introduced Sean at his book signing. Andrea has this very palpable kind/funny energy. So I had a feeling I would like her immediately and, therefore, enjoy her memoir. And, man...did I!

"Impossibly cranky" is how the publisher describes this memoir and yes, it's true. But, Andrea's hormonally-induced whining (an entitlement to us Jews...no?) is deliciously funny. Andrea explains she has always wanted a baby. And, she had hoped to embark on that journey with her girlfriend. But the relationship ends. And, a gay friend who offered to donate sperm, ends up shooting blanks. So- she decides to have her baby with an anonymous donor. Donor 3342. Once conception begins, all hell breaks loose. And, Andrea takes us on a 4o week and 5 day journey through her life in purgatory --as a pregnant, lonely, lesbian-- suffering through the trials and tribulations of being a single mother-to-be. As her stomach grows, so too does her discontent.

"We are looking at drawings of the fetus inside the womb on crusty posters that look like they've been around since the '70s. This is the most exciting event in my life, and this class is more boring than traffic school."

And yet, despite the misery, the book ends on a very happy note. When "Tashi" is born (all 8 pounds, 14 ounces of her) everything changes. Andrea has purpose. She is in love again. She will never be alone. Andrea's story is an inspiration. Despite her fears, she was brave enough to have a child on her own. I admire her for that. And- felt empowered knowing that, if need be, I could go at it alone too.

A Shoot With My Best Buddy

2010-04-15T20:00:00.002-04:00

Normally I am in front of the camera- but I love when I get to shoot my own stories. Today, I finally got to put my shooting skills back to work and got a little dirty for this shoot at Flamingo Park, South Beach, with photographer Steven Moore.
If you are looking for a great place to take your dog on Miami Beach- Flamingo Park is the best. And- if you want a portrait of your pet- check out Steve's site.

On The Juice- Kim Kardashian

2010-04-11T21:01:00.001-04:00

My one-on-one with Kim Kardashian during her last Miami Beach appearance. And the girls of Plum put Kim's website, Shoedazzle.com, to the test.

Secrets of Miami- Inside the Versace Mansion

2010-04-06T17:48:00.002-04:00

The iconic Versace Mansion has a new name and a new owner (well- lease holder). I take a look inside the 10-suite hotel and talk to restaurant impresario, Barton G. Weiss, about his new plans for the famous Ocean Drive home.

Book of The Month-Etre The Cow

2010-03-27T10:25:00.001-04:00

"Etre the Cow is one of the most important books written in a generation. Etre's fight for freedom and dignity is a fight for life itself. Sean Kenniff's Etre The Cow depicts a very human struggle-- and it's a story I won't soon forget.

-Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, Winner of the Nobel Peace Prize.

It is a little book, with a big message, told through the eyes of Etre The Cow. Etre means "to be" in French. And in this imaginary cow pasture, much like in our very real world, some ponder the meaning of existence, while others simply graze.

I was so moved by Sean's book. Yes- it is very much HIS story-- written after finding himself out of a job-- struggling with the pain of being cast aside by an indifferent employer despite years of thankless, hard work. But haven't we all found ourselves in a similar place-- contemplating, in our darkest moments, what seems like life's brutal insignificance? Etre's silent struggle for dignity, self-expression and control is the thinking man's conundrum.

"When night comes My Cow, Bull Calf, and all the other cows sleep, but I cannot. In the dark I wander and listen to the new cows cry out. Each cow has a different hunger, and I've weathered each one the same. They are simple hungers for simple appetites. But none of these cows hunger like I hunger, I think. I am the pasture inside the pasture, and the only cow here truly starving." - Chapter 7

I recently interviewed Sean for "The Juice." His story will premiere next Friday and I'll be sure to post the link here. One of the issues we discussed is how the animal rights community has embraced this book-- after all Etre is more than just meat. Sean says this wasn't his intention-- but is grateful. And, he has reduced his red-meat consumption ten-fold after spending weeks with cows in a Miami pasture. He noticed the varying personalities. The struggles. The fights. The nurturing between mother and calf. It is hard to eat something you now know 'feels." Perhaps even thinks?

"Different cows die in different ways. Sometimes the stunning pipe kills them flat out, and they never see it coming. Those are the lucky cows. But other times the pipe doesn't work proper and the cow is hung upside down still alive and frantic. Those cows have the most horrible deaths because the bloodletter slashes their necks with such panicked ferocity he often doesn't get the cut right on the first try. The cows flail and kick at him but in the end it never really matters much; the bloodletter always gets the job done." -Chapter 8

They say if slaughterhouses had glass walls we would all be vegetarians. Etre The Cow drills a hole into those cold, blood-drenched walls through which the reader must experience the truth.

Yoga is The Way

2010-03-26T23:07:00.000-04:00

"Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape."
-Author Unknown

I took a yoga class today at Miami Yogashala. Our teacher guided us through the Vinyasa Flow class as usual- combining traditional ashtanga poses with a powerful style developed by the Director, Fred Bush. But this time, as we lay in "Shivasana" (or corpse pose) at the end of the hour-and-a-half session, she sang a mantra. Her voice was beautiful-- sweet, haunting. I felt a stir deep inside-- an opening where I could hide for a while surrounded by light and peace. And, I remembered, again, why I am compelled to turn to yoga-- particularly in times of stress or doubt. Yoga is simply The Way.

Highlights from the CBS4 Anchor Desk

2010-03-18T22:23:00.000-04:00

Downward Dog Upside Down

2010-02-27T12:55:00.000-05:00

Check out the latest workouts at Crunch gym, South Beach. A new twist on yoga. Bouncing aerobics in a Boing class and more!

The Science of Dating

2010-02-17T18:01:00.000-05:00

Dr. Sean Kenniff, and health blogger on healthapalooza.com
joins us on "The Juice" to talk about the science of dating and more. And, this week's Plum Picks- pamper yourself (that explains why I'm sitting in a tub with rose petals). Tough assignment.

Traveling to Miami? Check out these Cuban flavors

2010-02-12T14:39:00.000-05:00

This Week on The Juice- Superbowl Madness Hits Miami

2010-01-29T16:26:00.000-05:00

Help for Haiti

2010-01-15T20:55:00.000-05:00

My heart goes out to the tens of thousands of people who have suffered so much after natural disaster struck, yet again, in Haiti. And though I applaud the Obama administration's efforts to help -- pledging $100,000 million in aid and sending our military to secure the aiport and help with recovery efforts , I am saddend that previous administrations, and the entire international community, failed to do more. For years, Haitian advocates in South Florida and beyond have begged for Temporary Protected Status for Haitians living in the United States. TPS grants immigrants who now live in this country -- men and women who work, pay taxes and have children who are American citizens, amnesty to stay in the U.S. It appears the Obama administration will at least grant TPS for the next 6 months or so and will also halt deportations. Good. But Haitian advocates have always wondered, aloud, why they were not afforded the same leeway as -for example- Guatemalans or Cubans who are both guaranteed amensty in the U.S. with TPS for Guatemalans and a wet-foot-dry-foot policy for Cubans--meaning any Cuban migrant who ends up on our shore and literally lands on dry land (as opposed to being interdicted at sea) is granted a stay in the U.S. and will not be deported.
I have traveled to Haiti three times in my career-covering a story about an orphanage, TPS and the aftermath of a hurricane. I have also traveled to many other third-world countries. I know I can state with authority that I have NEVER seen the devastation, poverty and filth that I witnessed in Haiti. Haitians needed our help a LONG time ago...way before an earthquake struck.
I know our aid will be received with grace and gratitude. And, I am proud that Americans are repsonding to this tragedy with such generosity and care. We proved after Katrina and the Tsunami that we, as private citizens, respond better than anyone in the face of tragedy. I sincerely hope the people of Haiti recover and those who lost love ones find a way to heal and move on. I also hope we, as a country and with the help of the international community, find a way to help our neighbor recover-- building roads, planting trees to prevent mudlsides from hurricanes and investing in Haiti's people by creating much needed jobs. Haiti deserves better.

Hosting "The Juice" on Plum TV.

2010-01-09T12:32:00.000-05:00

I am now hosting and producing a new show on Plum TV called "The Juice." This is the first episode that aired on Channel 5 Miami Beach (or you can check out the website www.plumtv.com/miami). I am so proud of this show. We have such a small crew producing, shooting and editing. But- I am working with some of the hardest working, most dedicated and creative people I have worked with in a long time. A new show debuts every Friday on Plum at 5 pm and airs all week. We focus on anything exciting happening on Miami Beach- art, restaurants, breaking news, etc... It feels great to be back home and reporting/hosting on all the exciting events happening around me. Stay tuned!

Woods WAGS and Ghandi

2009-12-08T18:31:00.000-05:00

"Tiger will do more than any other man in history to change the course of humanity. … He is the Chosen One. He'll have the power to impact nations. Not people. Nations."—Earl Woods, Tiger's father

I stumbled upon this article from Slate.com while searching the blogs for public opinion on the Tiger scandal. Tiger's now deceased father, Earl Woods, (died of cancer in May 2006) gave an interview to Sports Illustrated, three years prior, comparing his son's potential influence to Ghandi. The writer, Robert Wright, citing Tiger's dominance in his sport, even submits that he too believes Tiger "warrants consideration not just as an athlete but as someone of potentially political, even spiritual, significance. " Perhaps he was right. I too admired Tiger. I admired his strength, focus, dominance and squeaky-clean family-man-image. He played on an international stage-- commanded reverence on, and off, the golf-course. If Tiger talked, people listened. His influence was immeasurable and he certainly could have continued to use his wealth and exposure for some good. When I first heard about the scandal, my first reaction was disbelief. I too wanted to believe that Tiger was different. I understand many men (and women) struggle with marriage and monogamy. But, I naively supposed Tiger's incredible focus and discipline on the golf-course translated into a comparable focus and discipline in his personal life. We now know that is not true. "Spiritual significance?" Unlikely.

The public is fickle. We can forgive affairs. But- this scandal is too much to stomach. Kobe Bryant rehabilitated his image with a very public apology. His wife sat by his side-- forgiving his one "indiscretion." In comparison, Tiger's concubine of cocktail waitresses grows by the day. I don't see how any self-respecting woman can forgive that. Money? She will receive more than enough to live lavishly with a guilt-payout and child support. Plus, Tiger did not help his own cause by avoiding talking to the police and pointing a finger at the media (see Woods' statement #2) demanding his privacy and painting himself the victim. The only victims here are his wife and children. And while they deserve their privacy, Tiger does not. A public figure doesn't get to choose when he/she is watched. If you reap the rewards that flow from celebrity, then you must deal with the consequence of intense scrutiny. Tiger should have known better.

I have spent a lot of time in the U.K. over the past year and the exploits of athletes (primarily Premier League soccer players ie - David Beckham, Ashley Cole and Jermain Defoe) are daily tabloid fodder. There is no shortage of magazines and papers willing to publish the salacious details (and I mean DETAILS) of an alleged affair. There is also no shortage of women willing to bed a celebrity for a check, exposure and a reality-show. In the U.S., the options are far more scarce (The Inquirer, US, TMZ). In the UK, Athletes' wives and girlfriends (WAGS as they are called) and anyone claiming an affair are celebrities in their own right. A recent survey of 20-something British women revealed that six out of ten 21-25 year old women want to be a WAG. In the U.S., we tend not to pay much attention to athletes and their personal lives unless someone is murdered or cries rape. But, you can thank Tiger and TMZ boys...because that's all about to change. Seems like our appetite for scandal is just as ravenous as that of our brethren across the pond. But, please- spare us the details.

Problem Of Child Slavery

2009-12-04T18:52:00.001-05:00

My CBS Evening News story on Child Slavery in Benin West Africa.

I'm experimenting with my blog and trying to figure out how to upload video. Looks like I got it (finally).

The rest of my video is on my website jennifersantiago.com.

Hosting Art Basel 2009 for Plum TV

2009-12-02T16:01:00.001-05:00

I'm back in Miami Beach hosting Plum TV's exclusive coverage of Art Basel-2009. This is a shot on set at the Mandarin Oriental's Presidential Suite (breathtaking views by the way) with Mark Ellwood who writes for The New York Times. Every night from December 2-December 5 Plum TV will broadcast the special and it will get replay throughout the evening. The video will appear on Plum TV's website as well. Now I'm heading to the Miami Beach convention center to take a look at all the art work for tomorrow's show. I **must** give a shout-out to Emilio Uribe who did my hair and make-up for this shoot. My hair has never been this straight! He styles Shakira, so I knew my otherwise- out-of-control-mane was in good hands.

I Love New York

2009-12-01T21:33:00.000-05:00

Normally when I come home for the Holidays, I'll crash on a friend's couch or stay at my little brother's bachelor pad in Queens. But- this time, with a new husband in tow who has never been to NYC, I really wanted a place in the City. NYC, however, can be so expensive during the holidays. A friend told me she planned to rent an apartment for her stay. So- I scoured the net and found a website that allows you to browse apartments, private rooms and vacation rentals by calendar date. It is called Airbnb.com. The site boasts a collection of thousands of apartments in 101 countries. Each host posts a profile and pictures. And, some hosts will allow you to haggle on the price. I stayed near the U.N. (around E.41st and 1st ave) at an apartment owned by a woman who calls her home "Paris in New York." True to its description the one-bedroom, cozy apartment is cluttered with art, books and music from Paris. I signed in to Airbnb and was able to exchange emails with my host who even offered me a discount from the advertised price. All money is exchange on-line and once a reservation is confirmed, the site forwards an email address and phone number (you cannot get this information ahead of time). Airbbnb.com charged a $20 fee for all transactions.
This is Bernadette's home as it appears on Airbnb. I was really pleased with my experience and am so impressed with how much you can save using someone's apartment as opposed to staying in a hotel. Plus- there is something unique about stepping into someone else's life for a little while. The experience is far more interesting than a hotel stay.

House Swapping in Paris

2009-11-23T23:07:00.000-05:00

I have always dreamed of living in another country. But- 4 years of college, 3 years of law school, loans/bills and a job behind the anchor desk got in the way. Once I left news full-time and entered the frightening, yet liberating, world of freelancing...I decided to give it a shot. My number one choice was Paris. It is the most beautiful city in the world (in my humble opinion) and I have always been a bit French-obsessed. So- I decided to take off a month, live like a Parisian (yes- red wine, cheese and long walks) and enroll in a French language institute. But- of course, I was on a budget. So- I decided to house-swap and found it an incredibly rewarding experience. So here is how I did it and here are some tips.
1-There are several sites you can pay for, but I chose to go the cheap route- Craigslist.org. I posted my home under the house-swap option and waited for the replies. In the meantime, I also searched for folks who were willing to swap. If, like me, you live in a sought-after-city (Miami, New York, London...) it should be relatively easy to attract would-be-swappers.
2-If you are looking for a European vacation, chose to take your time-off during the summer months. Parisians (Londoners as well) seem to prefer to take off for weeks-at-a-time during the summer. I chose August.
3-Once you find a would-be-swapper exchange pictures and phone numbers and talk about your homes, expectations, number of guests, neighborhood etc... I swapped my 2-bedroom Miami Beach home for a small 1 bedroom apt. in the Bastille area owned by a lovely, young couple who were a bit nervous about our house-swapping experience but were willing to take the plunge.
4-Leave extra keys with a neighbor or friend. I actually got locked out of my borrowed-condo and it cost me 200 euros to break the lock!
5-Leave a note with instructions about appliances. Figuring out how to use a washing machine in Paris IS rocket science.

6-Be aware that your home will look very lived in when you return. If you can't bare the thought of someone touching your stuff...house-swapping isn't for you.

Here is a great article about house swapping from How Stuff Works.com

If you can't coordinate your dates with a fellow-swapper another great alternative is finding an apt. I'm using Airbnb.com for my Thanksgiving trip to NYC. Moderately priced hotels in Manhattan cost an average of $300/day during the holidays, but I am paying just $100/night. Recession-friendly travel! I'll keep you posted on my experiences.