Letter from the editor

Absolutely. Positively. We've come full circle, and one year later we're right back with the same challenge we have every July at Florida International Magazine - who and what qualifies for The Best? Ask one editor and his or her perspective is entirely different from another. The crossover from the best automobile to the best trip is entirely subjective, and although we think we have the inside scoop on a lot of new up-and-coming products, travel destinations and big bling, you, the readers, are the ultimate decision makers. Heading into our tenth anniversary this December, we're challenged with sorting through lots of material - from the most retro to the most outrageous. I think it seriously had an impact on our editing capabilities, so you get the whole gamut in this issue with tons of content that you can break down by your most elementary senses. Our "Best of Florida" (pages 54-73) is sorted, not by category of products and people, but by how you might physically or sensually react to our picks. GO: is about where, when and what, and you'll have to dig through a dozen or more watches from glamorous to high-tech. SEE: everything from the best view to a horde of specs for image appeal. HEAR: Sting's concert or just deck out those ears with dangling diamonds. CATCH: the big one - a diamond that will floor anyone. PLAY: with the dolphins or simply take your putter to the Blue Monster - either way, it's a win, win. SMELL: a beautiful bouquet of roses or take a whiff of the best cigar. TASTE: the ultimate Millionaire's caviar or act like a millionaire and just delve into the most decadent French fries. SPY: on everyone with an enviable stash of electronic gadgets. FEEL: like a million bucks when you loose the pounds and the years. STAY: in the most original resorts and if you have the time and the budget, don't leave for at least a month. SHOP: 'til you drop yet another million at a host of favorite designer digs.
Our Best of the Best philosophy is one that allows you to engage in the better life without any guilt. Of course, it's not just about the money; it's all about originality and tantalizing experiences that enable you to test the waters in style.
We've taken our "Best of" concept to the nines, but every publication thinks they can outdo The Best. We're here to tell you that unless one is willing to create a catalog of a million pages, the best is yet to come. Our next issue is all about design, interiors, buildings, products and the people who make it all so special. One of my favorite designers, Karim Rashid, believes we have a responsibility to only buy products that are designed well - from a simple toothbrush to a coat hanger. I agree. His trash bins and several other products have put him in front of a slew of major corporations who engage his services to "design" not only their products, but also their entire corporate image. I must confess I've been remiss in bringing you my latest and most uplifting new look. If you haven't yet visited Paraiso de la Bonita on the Mayan Riviera, you don't quite know what image building is really all about. Our next issue celebrates not only Paraiso's new design, but also its fifth anniversary. This five-star resort and spa is definitely one of my personal best places to rejuvenate. It may take a few visits to prepare for the lenses, but for now I'm taking a quick Fourth of July summer respite -- a little sun, relaxation and celebration. I think Silversea is calling. (New photo in the making ... or in Photoshop for yet another try at my "Best" look -- absolutely, positively.) Happy Fourth!

Esther Q. Jackson
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief