Every year, Dallas marks the start of the festive season with a handful of beloved traditions, but few feel as transportive-or as indulgent-as holiday tea at the French-inspired restaurant inside The Adolphus. It’s the kind of experience that doesn’t just celebrate the season; it wraps you up in it. Think flickering light, soft seasonal music, ornate décor, and an unmistakable sense that you’ve stepped into a world where time slows down and pleasure becomes the priority. This year’s tea service is priced at $85 for adults and $35 for kids, and the value is apparent the moment the first tiered tray arrives. The three-course menu is deliberately paced and beautifully presented, beginning with savory bites that lean more toward refined indulgence than polite finger food. Expect warm, buttery pastry textures against cool, elegant fillings-things like herb-rich chicken or smoked fish salads, delicate tartlets, and tiny sandwiches that reveal more complexity than their size suggests. Every flavor is balanced, every bite intentional. From there, the scones arrive like little gifts. Freshly baked and still warm, they strike that sweet-spot texture between crumbly and tender. They’re served with rich accompaniments-jam, cream, maybe even a seasonal butter-each one bringing its own quiet joy. And then, of course, the pastries. This is where the French influence sings: jewel-like sweets with glossy finishes, gold dust, layers upon layers of technique, and playful holiday notes. It’s the kind of final course where you linger, nibbling slowly so the moment doesn’t end too soon. The tea pairings elevate everything. Guests receive two artisan teas from Zatki, chosen specifically to complement the seasonal menu. One leans warm and nostalgic with spice or floral depth; the other is lighter, aromatic, and refreshing between bites. Alongside the tea comes a complimentary glass of champagne (or a non-alcoholic sparkling option), which somehow makes the whole afternoon feel like a toast to yourself. Even the small details-like discounted valet and the duo of hand-painted Kate Weiser bonbons you take home-add to the sense of thoughtful luxury. But what truly makes this tea iconic is the atmosphere. During the holidays, The Adolphus transforms into a storybook version of itself-glimmering trees, velvet textures, soft gold lighting, and a lively hum of people celebrating traditions old and new. Families dress up, friends laugh over shared pastries, and the air has that unmistakable festive magnetism. It’s elegant, but never stuffy; polished, but warm.
https://cravedfw.com/2025/11/17/adolphus-holiday-tea-feels-festive-reels-in-the-seasons-magic/
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10 Most Exclusive Resorts in the World With Next-level Luxury
Some places are so over-the-top luxurious, they feel like a fantasy. It makes sense that the most exclusive resorts in the world offer more than just stunning views and soft sheets—they provide guests with bragging rights to once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Whether it’s a plunge pool facing the Indian Ocean or a signature Aman spa treatment, these resorts are truly in a league of their own. Here’s where luxury hits its peak.
This eco resort on a tiny island in the Indian Ocean has even hosted British royalty. Each villa boasts its own stretch of white sand beach, a private plunge pool, and outdoor showers, offering an unparalleled level of privacy and comfort.
Located on the coast of Mozambique, this beach resort is part of the renowned &Beyond luxury collection. Guests stay in thatched-roof villas complete with plunge pools and breathtaking views of turquoise waters. On-site experiences include scuba diving, dhow boat rides, and exploring sand dunes, ensuring adventure and relaxation go hand in hand.
Tucked into the hills of Nice, this restored 17th-century convent perfectly blends preserved stained glass accents with a celebrated fine-dining restaurant. Its cold plunge pool and holistic all-inclusive spa packages make it a standout in the luxury travel world, offering guests a unique combination of history, wellness, and gourmet cuisine.
Amanyara, situated in a nature reserve on the Caicos Islands, features villas with private pools, outdoor showers, and stunning ocean views. The Aman spa, open-air Bar lounge, and complimentary daily breakfast add to this resort’s appeal. Consistently ranked among the best beach resorts globally, Amanyara promises an unforgettable luxury escape.
One resort is famous for its dramatic arrival experience—guests can paraglide in. Nestled between rugged cliffs and the sea, the villas offer private sandy garden areas with direct beach access and plunge pools. With on-site restaurants and VIP treatment favored by A-list celebrities, this resort ensures a lavish and exclusive stay.
Finally, an ultra-private island paradise beckons with villas perched over crystal-clear waters, some featuring their own slides into the sea. Guests can indulge in water sports, rejuvenating spa treatments, and gourmet meals at three exceptional restaurants. This private island seamlessly combines complete privacy, lavish pampering, and a serene, palm-fringed setting for the ultimate luxury retreat.
https://lifestyle.howstuffworks.com/event-planning/most-exclusive-resorts-in-the-world.htm
Ben Johnson Gets Honest About His Role Leading Bears Defense So Far
**Bears Head Coach Ben Johnson Discusses Defensive Struggles and Partnership with Dennis Allen**
Chicago Bears first-year head coach Ben Johnson entered the role with little experience on the defensive side of the ball, which is a key reason he brought in defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. Now responsible for every phase of the football team as head coach, Johnson has leaned on Allen to lead the defense this season.
A longtime offensive assistant, Johnson hired Allen—who is in his 15th season as a coordinator or head coach—to manage the defense. Despite this partnership, the Bears’ defense has faced significant challenges this year.
### Defensive Struggles Despite Takeaways
Interestingly, the Bears lead the NFL in takeaways this season, but several other defensive metrics paint a less optimistic picture:
– The defense has allowed 5.3 yards per carry, ranking 30th in the NFL.
– Opposing quarterbacks have posted a passer rating of 98.6, which ranks 21st league-wide.
– Despite the presence of Montez Sweat, the pass rush has generated only 14 sacks, placing them 25th overall.
– In the red zone, opponents have scored touchdowns on 64% of their trips, also ranking 25th in the NFL.
These struggles were particularly evident in the most recent game, when backup quarterback Tyler “Snoop” Huntley and the Baltimore Ravens scored 30 points against the Bears.
### Ben Johnson on Working with Dennis Allen and the Defense
Speaking at Friday’s press availability, Johnson addressed his role overseeing the defense and his collaboration with Allen.
“Dennis and I spend a lot of time together,” Johnson said. “I’m not necessarily in their install meetings because I’m a little more involved with the offense in their install meetings. Where we are now in the season, it’s a little more focus on the offense and making sure that side of the ball is good.”
He expressed confidence in Allen’s capabilities, noting, “Dennis has a great grasp on his system, so I’m not gonna micromanage that. He’s done it at a high level for a long time and that’s part of the reason he came here.”
Johnson also shared that he sometimes contributes ideas to the defense. “I’ve got ideas that I’ll spit ball,” he said. “Sometimes Dennis will implement the idea or not. It’s good for my education as well; it helps me grow as a coach.”
He emphasized his supportive role and a willingness to challenge ideas at times. “I’m there to help support and I do like to challenge occasionally and learn. I do think the longer I’m in this role, the more in tune I am with bringing all three phases together so that we can play complementary football.”
### Bears Aim to Make a Statement Against the Bengals
Looking ahead to Sunday’s matchup, the Bears (4-3) face the Cincinnati Bengals (3-5). While Chicago ranks second in the NFL on third down, allowing conversions on just 31.9% of attempts, they cannot rely solely on takeaways for defensive success—turnovers often come down to luck.
With Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow on injured reserve, veteran Joe Flacco has taken over and impressively has not thrown an interception or lost a fumble in three starts. If Flacco is unable to play due to a sprained AC joint, the Bears’ chances of generating takeaways could improve against Jake Browning, who has thrown eight interceptions this season. However, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor is expected to tailor the game plan to minimize turnover risks.
Ultimately, the Bears’ best path to defensive success lies in shutting down the run and forcing Cincinnati’s quarterback into third-and-long situations. This straightforward strategy plays to Chicago’s strengths and could be the key to controlling the game.
https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/chicago-bears/ben-johnson-defense-dennis-allen-relationship/