Food & Lifestyle
AGUA CALIENTE CASINO RESORT SPA NAMED RECOMMENDED HOTEL AND SUNSTONE SPA NAMED FOUR-STAR SPA BY FORBES TRAVEL GUIDE IN ITS OFFICIAL 2019 STAR RATING ANNOUNCEMENT

Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa and Sunstone Spa Earn Prestigious Awards; All Ratings Showcased on ForbesTravelGuide.com
Rancho Mirage, Calif. (February 20, 2019) — Forbes Travel Guide today unveiled its annual Star Rating list, naming Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa as a Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Hotel and Sunstone Spa as a Four-Star Spa. Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa and Sunstone Spa will be showcased with all of the Star Rating recipients on ForbesTravelGuide.com.
This is the second consecutive year that the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa, a AAA Four Diamond property, has attained the Forbes Travel Guide Recommended rating, and also the second consecutive year that Sunstone Spa has attained the Forbes Four-Star rating. With the perfect mix of elegance and exhilaration, this luxurious destination resort located in the heart of Southern California’s beautiful Coachella Valley offers 340 spacious guest rooms, 71,000 square feet of the area’s best gaming, an outdoor oasis with sparkling pools and luxury cabanas, award-winning dining, world-class entertainment and more. The luxurious 10,500 square-foot Sunstone Spa features seasonal massage and skin packages, full-service hair and nail salons, fitness center, eucalyptus steam room and dry sauna, whirlpool, private outdoor swimming pool, and luxury spa cabanas.
In addition to the luxurious hotel accommodations and spa, the property features the award-winning fine dining restaurant, The Steakhouse, winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence consecutively since 2007 and a new recipient this year of the AAA Four Diamond Restaurant award, and The Show, the premier concert theater in Southern California that this year celebrates its 10th anniversary of playing host to a legendary lineup of performers.
“Our hotel and spa continue to receive accolades for the guest service our entire staff offers across all amenities at both of our resort properties located in Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage,” says Saverio R. Scheri III, Chief Operating Officer of Agua Caliente Casino Resorts.
Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa continues for the second year with this auspicious inclusion in the luxury travel ratings that have been the gold standard in the hospitality industry since 1958.
“We are delighted to celebrate the 2019 Star Rating winners, an outstanding collection of hotels, restaurants and spas that demonstrates a strong culture of service,” says Filip Boyen, Chief Executive Officer of Forbes Travel Guide.
“In a time of information overload and fake reviews online, Forbes Travel Guide is the ultimate trusted source in luxury travel,” Boyen says. “Our objective, data-driven Star Rating list features properties that achieved an impeccable standard of excellence in hospitality. We congratulate everyone associated with the prestigious properties recognized today.” For a detailed explanation of how Forbes Travel Guide compiles its Star ratings, click here.
Connect with Forbes Travel Guide: Instagram: www.instagram.com/ForbesTravelGuide Twitter: www.twitter.com/ForbesInspector Facebook: www.facebook.com/ForbesTravelGuide
About Forbes Travel Guide:
Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants and spas. Our anonymous professional inspectors evaluate based on up to 900 objective standards, with an emphasis on exceptional service, to help discerning travelers select the world’s best luxury experiences. The only way to get a Five-Star, Four-Star or Recommended rating is by earning it through our independent inspection process. For our full award winners list, daily travel stories and more information about Forbes Travel Guide, visit www.forbestravelguide.com.
About Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa:
Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa, a AAA Four Diamond and Forbes Recommended property in Rancho Mirage, ranked top 10 for “Best Casino Outside of Las Vegas” in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice 2018 travel awards, and Spa Resort Casino in downtown Palm Springs offer the hottest slots, a variety of table games, and high-limit gaming, plus fine dining and shopping, all in a gorgeous resort setting. Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa is also home to the Forbes Four-Star Sunstone Spa and The Show, the premier concert theater in Southern California featuring a legendary lineup of performers. Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa and Spa Resort Casino are owned and operated by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, which also owns the world-renowned Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon hiking trails, and Indian Canyons Golf Resort.
Above: Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa
Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa, a AAA Four Diamond and Forbes Recommended property in Rancho Mirage, ranked top 10 for “Best Casino Outside of Las Vegas” in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice 2018 travel awards, and Spa Resort Casino in downtown Palm Springs offer the hottest slots, a variety of table games, and high-limit gaming, plus fine dining and shopping, all in a gorgeous resort setting. Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa is also home to the Forbes Four-Star Sunstone Spa and The Show, the premier concert
theater in Southern California featuring a legendary lineup of performers. Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa and Spa Resort Casino are owned and operated by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, which also owns the world-renowned Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon hiking trails, and Indian Canyons Golf Resort.
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For Press Inquiries, Contact:
Mary Silverman
Manager of Media and Community Relations
Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa | Spa Resort Casino
(760) 833-8109 office | (760) 464-9355 mobile msilverman@accmail.net
Erik Stein & Debbie Kruger, Scoop Marketing
(818) 761-6100 estein@solters.com & dkruger@solters.com
Food & Lifestyle
Sanctity Hotel, a Tapestry Collection by Hilton, Opens in Rancho Cucamonga With City’s First Rooftop Bar and Durango-Inspired Dining

Elevating Rancho Cucamonga: Sanctity Hotel Introduces Luxurious Retreat and Premier Rooftop Dining Experience
Rancho Cucamonga is stepping into the spotlight as a premier travel and lifestyle destination with the opening of Sanctity Hotel and Durango Cocina & Rooftop Bar on April 3. As the city experiences rapid growth—including the upcoming Brightline West high-speed rail connecting travelers to Las Vegas—Sanctity Hotel marks a new chapter in elevated hospitality with its retreat-style accommodations, advanced wellness therapy offerings and a first-of-its-kind restaurant and rooftop dining experience.
The Five Elements
A Tapestry Collection by Hilton™ hotel, the 68-room property redefines luxury in Rancho Cucamonga with premium amenities, including a gym, sauna, and Thriv Studio —offering advanced wellness therapies. Designed to embody the five elements of life—earth, water, fire, air and space—Sanctity Hotel offers a feeling of balance and tranquility whether you are traveling for business, leisure or in groups.
“Bringing Sanctity Hotel and Durango Cocina to life has been a dream come true. Every detail tells a story, inviting guests to experience something truly unique to the area,” says Sachin Bhakta, Vice President of Development at Globiwest Hospitality. “Rancho Cucamonga is an incredible community, and we wanted to create a space that feels like a true retreat—where guests can unwind, experience exceptional hospitality, and enjoy amazing food and drink at Durango Cocina.”
Design Inspired by the Five Elements and Natural Craftsmanship
Sanctity Hotel’s design is a modern interpretation of the five fundamental elements—earth, water, fire, air, and space—woven into every detail of the property. Inspired by the palaces of India and brought to life with natural materials, the interiors are grounded in earth through the use of hand-carved Parota wood sourced from Mexico. From sculptural headboards and coffee tables to the front desk, each piece is crafted from single cuts of real wood, free of synthetic materials. Air and space are reflected in the open layouts and expansive flow of the property, including Rancho Cucamonga’s first rooftop bar. Fire comes to life through the warmth and energy of Durango Cocina, the hotel’s signature restaurant. Water is symbolized by a cascading waterfall feature in the hotel lobby, welcoming guests with a sense of movement and tranquility. Guest rooms feature 100% recycled organic textiles, while original works by Mexico City-based artist and yogi Enrique de Anda add spiritual depth—merging nature, energy, and design in harmonious balance.
For guests seeking wellness treatments, Thriv Studio offers an advanced, holistic approach to relaxation and rejuvenation with innovative services like Lymphatic Drainage Therapy, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Infrared Ozone Therapy, and BrainTap Therapy—each designed to enhance mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Communal hotel amenities include a gym and sauna, a spacious private meeting room and function space, and indoor and outdoor event space for celebrating any occasion.
Durango-Inspired Cuisine
Led by Chef Alex Carrasco, a Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient, Durango Cocina’s menu pays tribute to the culinary heritage of Durango, Mexico, while integrating locally sourced ingredients and modern cooking techniques. Brought to life by Boulevard Hospitality Group, the dynamic new concept brings a vibrant culinary destination and the city’s first rooftop dining experience.
Set against expansive mountain views, Rancho Cucamonga’s first rooftop bar features serpentine-style seating and cabana sections surrounding cozy fire pits, and offers guests menu options like its Ceviche and an extensive mezcal and tequila selection, handcrafted cocktails, fine wines, and house-made agua frescas.
Food & Lifestyle
Amazon Fresh Opens First San Bernardino County Location in Fontana, Elevating Grocery Shopping in the Inland Empire

Amazon Fresh Brings Cutting-Edge Grocery Experience to Inland Empire with New Fontana Location
Amazon continues to expand its footprint in the grocery sector with the grand opening of its first Amazon Fresh store in San Bernardino County, located in the bustling city of Fontana. The store, which opened its doors on September 12, 2024, brings Amazon’s unique combination of technology-driven convenience and high-quality products to the Inland Empire.
Situated at 16188 S. Highland Ave., the Fontana Amazon Fresh store offers customers a modern grocery shopping experience. With a vast selection of national brands, fresh produce, meats, seafood, and a variety of freshly prepared meals, the store caters to a broad spectrum of consumer needs. Amazon Fresh’s private labels, such as Aplenty, Amazon Fresh, and 365 by Whole Foods Market, are also available at competitive prices.
This new Amazon Fresh location is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to enhancing grocery shopping both online and in-store. It is designed with Amazon’s latest brick-and-mortar layout, previously introduced in select stores across Chicago and Southern California. The design focuses on convenience, value, and a diverse array of grocery items, including more than 500 regional brands such as Caulipower, McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams, and Rockenwagner Bakery.
Amazon Fresh’s arrival in Fontana has a broader impact on the community beyond just groceries. The store is creating dozens of jobs for local residents and is also partnering with Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino to donate surplus food. This initiative aligns with Amazon’s efforts to give back to the communities where they operate.
Prime members shopping at this location can enjoy exclusive savings, including a 10% discount on hundreds of products each week, and discounts of up to 50% on select grocery favorites. In addition to a wide selection of products, customers will find grab-and-go meals, sandwiches, and ready-to-cook options, offering convenience for busy families.
“We’re thrilled to open our newest Amazon Fresh grocery store right here in the heart of the Inland Empire,” said Kevin Johnson, Amazon Fresh Regional Manager. “This opening invites customers in Fontana to experience grocery shopping with Amazon Fresh, both in-store and online.
The store is open seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., providing ample time for customers to shop at their convenience. As with other Amazon Fresh locations, the Fontana store also integrates seamlessly with Amazon’s online grocery services, allowing customers to shop online for home delivery or in-store pickup, further streamlining the grocery shopping experience.
Amazon’s commitment to innovation, community, and customer satisfaction continues to reshape how Inland Empire residents experience grocery shopping. This latest opening in Fontana is expected to serve as a cornerstone for future expansions in the region.
For more information about Amazon Fresh and the products available, visit the store in Fontana or check out Amazon’s grocery services online.
Food & Lifestyle
Savor the Seasons: The Whys and Hows of Embracing Seasonal Eating

Exploring the Rich Benefits of Aligning Our Diets with Nature’s Cycles
Wellness Tips By Sarah Goudie, Nutrition Expert & Guest Writer for IEBJ
In my discussions about nourishment, I often share four crucial elements: what we eat, when we eat, how we eat, and why we eat.
During this time of year, one aspect of “what we eat” stands out to me because I cannot miss the abundance of vibrant berries, melons, and citrus available at local stores and farmers’ markets.
Beyond just the nutrients in our food, it’s worth considering why “what we eat” matters. Seasonal eating plays a pivotal role here. The availability of produce is shaped by climate and geography, which were fundamental to early agricultural societies. Additionally, cultural traditions and holistic practices like Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and Indigenous wisdom emphasize the importance of seasonal nourishment.
Here are some how’s and why’s to embrace seasonal eating, on the regular…even in urban or semi-urban settings:
1. Enjoyment: Seasonal fruits and vegetables are a full sensory experience. Fresh, ripe, and bursting with flavor, they offer a taste experience that’s undeniable. This freshness enhances the overall enjoyment of food through taste, visual beauty, and aroma.
Try creating a seasonal meal: Once you know what’s in season, plan your meals accordingly. Look for recipes that highlight seasonal ingredients and incorporate them into your cooking. Experiment with new dishes to fully enjoy the flavors and nutritional benefits of seasonal produce. This may sound like a huge undertaking…but start small. Pick one meal, 1x a week a try it out!
2. Nutritional Benefits: Harvested at peak ripeness, seasonal produce retains higher nutritional content compared to out-of-season counterparts that are often harvested prematurely and ripened during transport. Trying new and seasonally inspired foods introduces a higher variety of vitamins and nutrients into your diet naturally.
Dive into some research: Learning new things isn’t just good for your recipe making journey, but it is also great for your cognitive health! Do a quick internet search about seasonal eating, grab a book or read an article to learn more about recipes, cultural perspectives and specific facts about this form of nourishment!
3. Support Local: By choosing seasonal foods, we support local farmers and the regional economy. This provides financial support for local farmers and reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation.
Dine local. Look for restaurants in your area that prioritize seasonal ingredients in their menus. Dining out can be an opportunity to enjoy professionally prepared dishes featuring local and seasonal foods.
4. Environmental Impact: Seasonal eating promotes environmental sustainability. It encourages biodiversity and reduces reliance on artificial inputs like pesticides and excessive irrigation. This practice fosters a deeper connection to the Earth’s natural cycles and raises awareness about food availability throughout the year.
Visit and support farmers’ markets: I get super geeky and excited about Farmers’ markets! I absolutely love meeting the farmers and family members who grow and harvest food that I can enjoy. They are often very happy to share stories about the crops, fun facts about the food they have harvested or even give amazing recipe recommendations. One of my favorite vendors at my neighborhood farmers market has everything from honey to fresh veggies and they collaborate with a team of foragers who also contribute to the market.
5. Financial Savings: Seasonal produce is typically more affordable. Its abundance during peak seasons often translates to lower prices, especially when sourced locally rather than imported or grown in controlled environments.
Grow your own: Balconies, rooftops and windowsills can be prime areas to grow your own herbs, small veggies or fruits. I’ve found that mint is the easiest to grow and I love having it available to add to drinks or summer salads.
By embracing seasonal eating, we enhance our culinary experiences and contribute positively to our health, local communities, and the planet. It’s a simple yet impactful way to align our diet with the rhythms of nature and support sustainable living practices.
THIS MONTH: Before visiting your favorite grocery store, quickly scan this resource to gain a little extra knowledge on what current produce is fresh and appropriate for this season. Try a seasonal item and share some (and your new knowledge) with a friend.
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