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Robata Jinya Hollywood Grand Opening - My second Media Day Experience
I was invited by the Franki app to attend the grand opening of Robata JINYA in Hollywood, and of course I had to go. This was my second exclusive event — the first being a food tasting at Sanjo — and each one has given me a deeper appreciation for how restaurants showcase their creativity to content creators and tastemakers. The Event Originally, 20 people were confirmed, but only 9 showed up. That made the evening more intimate, and the staff treated us exceptionally well. O

Michael Flake
4 days ago2 min read


Exploring Vintage Treasures: Thrifting Adventures in Dublin and Beyond
Thrifting during layovers has become one of my favorite ways to explore new cities. Instead of just slam clicking on my layovers, I dive into local thrift and vintage shops to uncover unique finds and experience the culture through its secondhand treasures. Recently, I spent some time thrifting in Dublin, a city rich with history and character, and it reminded me of other memorable thrift adventures I’ve had in places like Edinburgh, London, and Zurich. Each city offers a dis

Michael Flake
5 days ago4 min read


Exploring Copenhagen: My Memorable Layover at Buka Bakery and Reffen Food Spot
Copenhagen leaves a lasting impression, no matter how brief the visit. I only had the chance to work the route once during its short run last year, but that single layover in the Danish capital was unforgettable. I discovered local gems like the cozy Buka Bakery and the lively Reffen food market. This post captures that experience, celebrating the beauty and unique flavors of Copenhagen. Discovering Buka Bakery: A Taste of Danish Craftsmanship During my layover, I made it a p

Michael Flake
Dec 33 min read


Unlocking the Sapphire Experience — Why the Chase Sapphire Reserve Belongs in Your Wallet
Owning the Chase Sapphire Reserve® isn’t just about carrying a premium credit card — it’s about unlocking a lifestyle of travel, dining, and curated experiences. From airport lounges to exclusive club events, this card has become part of my toolkit for storytelling, reviews, and rituals. 🌟 Classic Benefits That Built the Legacy $300 annual travel credit — automatically reimbursed when you use the card for travel purchases. Priority Pass Select membership — access to 1,300

Michael Flake
Dec 12 min read


🍴 Manifesting Flavor at Winter FancyFaire San Diego 2026
A Festival of Flavor and Storytelling The Winter FancyFaire in San Diego is more than a showcase of gourmet products — it’s a reimagined stage where food, culture, and creativity collide. As I revamp my blog and expand my TikTok storytelling, I’m setting my sights on this culinary celebration. Whether I’m accepted as press or attending as a passionate foodie, my intention is clear: to bring my community along for every bite, every laugh, and every discovery. Why Winter Fancy

Michael Flake
Nov 302 min read


Paris Layover Ritual: First Tastes, Crew Moments, and Candlelight at Notre Dame
Sometimes a layover becomes a legacy. This one unfolded in three acts — from first bites to final blessings. 🥖 Day 1: First Taste of France “Trying French Cuisine for the First Time” We landed in Paris and headed straight into flavor. My crew suggested a local French restaurant, and I said yes — even though I’d never tried French cuisine before. The textures, the sauces, the ritual of it all… it felt like a culinary initiation. I’ll never forget that first bite. 🛒 Day 2:

Michael Flake
Nov 301 min read


Mid‑Autumn Festival: Cultural Exchange in ActionNote: The following is an official press release provided by the Study in China Alumni Association (SCAA).
Note: The following is an official press release provided by the Study in China Alumni Association (SCAA). I did not write this content — I’m reposting it here for informational purposes. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SCAA Strengthens China–U.S. Cultural Exchange With a Warm and Lively Mid‑Autumn Festival Celebration Los Angeles, CA – The Study in China Alumni Association (SCAA) continues its mission of connecting people who share a genuine passion for Chinese culture through year‑ro

Michael Flake
Nov 292 min read


Dublin’s Magical Lucky Stone: A Wild Ride Through Time!
Ever heard of a magic stone that likes to move around? Well, Dublin has one! Nestled in Old St. Audoen’s Church, this ancient gem has seen some wild times. Here’s the scoop: The church itself is super old, dating back to 1190 CE, and houses Ireland’s oldest bells. But the real star? The Lucky Stone! This 9th-century slab, engraved with a Greek cross, was once worshipped by locals who believed it could cure illnesses and bring good luck. Fast forward to 1309, when Mayor John

Michael Flake
Nov 201 min read


From Foodie Indulgence to Healthy Transformation
For years, this blog has been a space where I’ve shared my love of eating out (Sorry! I have Moon in Taurus) — the indulgent bites, the travel meals, and the joy of discovery. But lately, my journey has shifted. I’ve been eating healthier, losing weight, and finding clarity in outdoor life, supplements, and mindful rituals. This isn’t just about food anymore. It’s about transformation. It’s about choosing energy over exhaustion, clarity over cravings, and balance over indulg

Michael Flake
Nov 191 min read


My Ultimate Night Out: Foster the People at Emo's Austin, A Hidden Gem Hotel, and Unforgettable Vibes!
When I found out that Foster the People would be gracing the stage at Emo's Austin for a special night on Oct. 3rd, 2024, I knew I had to be there. Having previously caught their electrifying performances in LA and Phoenix, I was ecstatic to witness their energy live once again. Where I stayed: Colton House - A Hilton Boutique Hotel For the ultimate convenience and luxury, I chose to stay at the Colton House, a Hilton Boutique hotel just a short 8-minute drive away from Emo's

Michael Flake
Oct 9, 20242 min read


A Perfect 24 Hours in Naples, Italy: Food and Underground Adventures
Naples, the vibrant heart of Italy’s Campania region, is a city rich in culture, history, and mouthwatering cuisine. If you find yourself with just 24 hours to explore this fascinating city, you can indulge in authentic Italian dishes and discover the hidden wonders beneath its bustling streets. Here’s a guide to make the most of your day, focusing on two key experiences: your journey through Underground Naples and a delightful dining experience in the Chiaia district. Arriva

Michael Flake
Oct 2, 20243 min read


“Tram-tastic Trek to Uetliberg
Hello, fellow travelers! 🌍✈️ Got a short layover and don’t want to travel too far to go to a hiking destination? Uetliberg is just a short train ride away from Zurich. Let’s make your trip unforgettable! Here’s your fun and cool guide to getting there. Step 1: Get App-Savvy First things first, make sure you’ve got the SBB Mobile app on your phone. Open it up and get ready to plan your journey. If you’re not into apps, the website works just as well. But come on, it’s 2024 –

Michael Flake
Aug 31, 20242 min read


From Lisbon to Fatima: A Day Trip to Portugal's Holiest Site.
Picture this: Two jet-lagged flight attendants—Cleison and myself —fresh off a transatlantic flight from Philly to Lisbon. Our hairdos...

Michael Flake
May 11, 20241 min read


"Slaying the Layover Game: Making Paris B*tch in One Day"
Did you get a hot Paris layover but not a clue how to tackle the city? Fear not, I've got your back babe! Paris is basically the Lady...

Michael Flake
May 5, 20242 min read


Zurich’s Melody: Tina Turner's Memorial, Nighttime Revelry, and Swiss Eats.
A few days after Tina Turner’s passing in 2023, I found myself working a flight to Zurich. My crew and I decided to pay our respects to...

Michael Flake
Apr 11, 20243 min read


“Layover Chronicles: Dublin’s Triptych Adventure"
Ah, dear wanderer, let me weave for you a tale of Dublin’s mystical embrace—a place where time dances to its own fiddle tune, and...

Michael Flake
Apr 9, 20244 min read


Espresso Yourself: 3 things you can do on a 24 hour layover in Rome. Part 1
Ciao, fellow travelers! Imagine this: You’re a flight attendant, and you’ve landed a long layover in Rome. Your senior crew members want...

Michael Flake
Apr 8, 20242 min read


ExpoWest: A Journey into Wellness
In the heart of sunny California, amidst the buzz of industry insiders, I found myself immersed in the vibrant world of Expo west. For three exhilarating days, I explored the latest in healthy products, sampled nourishing foods, and delved into the secrets behind natural supplements. Allow me to share the highlights of this exclusive trade show. Behind the Scenes Access ExpoWest isn’t your run-of-the-mill public event. It’s a gathering reserved for those who shape the wellnes

Michael Flake
Apr 1, 20242 min read


Reimagining the Blogosphere: My Second Shot at Unveiling the Untold
Join me as I wander the globe, exploring places, cultures, visiting sacred sites, savoring culinary delights, and embarking on product...

Michael Flake
Mar 28, 20241 min read


Hidden Gems: Uncovering Off-the-Grid Culinary Delights
Are you a food lover who craves unique and unforgettable culinary experiences? Do you yearn to explore off-the-grid places and uncover...

Michael Flake
Mar 28, 20242 min read
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