FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

The 2020 Chia Pet Invitational

by John Wroblewski

Aug 2, 2020

Several weeks ago, through social media posts, my friend and personal trainer, Tommy Else, documented his success (or lack thereof) with a Chia Pet. Of course, I had to rib him on the woeful growth of his Golden Girls’ Sophia Chia.

After some fun chatter, I challenged him to a Chia Pet contest. Soon other friends joined the conversation, leading to Tommy creating The 2020 Chia Pet Invitational.

Having never attempted to grow a Chia Pet, I sought advice from my sisters and nieces, along with online research. I never realized how many different Chia Pets are available, but I settled on Bob Ross, mostly out of convenience and time.

Three days prior to the start of the contest, I submerged Bob in a bucket of water, trying to have it absorb as much water as possible. I changed the water twice daily to keep it fresh.

On the start day, I added water to the Chia seeds and waited for it to gel. I had to add more seeds to thicken the mixture.

Once the seeds were ready, I removed Bob from the bucket, spread the seeds over his head and placed a plastic bag over Bob to keep in the moisture. After two days, I removed the bag and placed Bob in a window.

The Winner: Chia Bob Ross

Every day, I refilled the water holder twice and turned Bob several times to allow the sunlight to reach all sides. After a couple more days, I saw real growth.

The contest ended eight days later, and voting opened to anyone on social media. I am proud to say I won, although the Chia committee did not release the official tally.

The contest was a lot of fun. It provided daily amusement as pictures were posted on Facebook, along with good-natured jabbing. I also have to admit it was a lot of work. I didn’t know Chia Pets only lasted about 14 days. Of course, the Chia Pet base can be cleaned and new seeds planted, but I think I will wait for the 2021 Chia Pet Invitational.

— John Wroblewski, online writer

Emily Lundvall

Evan Lilek

Gary Lilek

Juli Anne

Tommy Else

The Kuecker Family

Rick Bach

Phil Delin

Peter Jackson

Paige Lilek

Diann Markovic

Charlotte Bach

Angie Lilek

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
May 23, 2025

Up Your RV Game with All-Electric Luxury RV, New Gear

If you’re chomping at the bit to head into the wilderness and set up camp, we’re with you. For a dose of luxury, enjoy an off-grid adventure for up to seven days with the new Pebble Flow. With a sleek, aerodynamic futuristic profile, the Pebble Flow also boasts a dual-motor Active Tow Assist System to allow for pulling with an electric vehicle. Features include lightweight composite and sustainable materials; panoramic windows with a 270-degree view; convertible furnishings; and a modern, minimalist design aesthetic.  The chef-inspired kitchen, silent HVAC system and spa bathroom provide travel comfort, and nature-inspired colors including Sky, Fern, Poppy and Sand add to the overall sense of serenity. Bonus: The Pebble Flow can sight, align and hitch all on its own, while The Pebble App and dual-motor drivetrain let you maneuver, reverse, park and position with ease.

Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive

Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.

May 2025
May 23, 2025

Relax, Rejuvenate and Heal at StolenTime

At the namesake luxury, 5-star all-inclusive resort in Saint Lucia, the concept of “stolen time” used to be reserved for couples escaping to canoodle, reconnect and perhaps rekindle in sumptuous accommodations during a romantic getaway on the lush Caribbean island. But when StolenTime by Rendezvous rebranded in late 2022 to welcome all adult guests and focus more on wellness, the philosophy expanded to encompass self-reflection, personal growth and enrichment. After all, time is our most precious commodity, one that’s finite and too quickly slips through our grasp; we need to find those moments that matter and make them count.

Daily
May 23, 2025

4 High-Altitude Hotels for Summer Travel

Travelers looking for a summer escape with less crowds and cooler temps should consider a visit to these four hotels in high-altitude destinations.

Royal Air Maroc Marks Five Years with oneworld: Strengthening Connectivity Between USA and Africa and Expanding Global Reach

Royal Air Maroc proudly enters its fifth year as a member of the prestigious oneworld alliance. Since joining in April 2020, RAM has demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging as a dynamic airline that enhanced its digital services and expanded its network. The airline plans to grow its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, reinforcing its global presence.

Daily
May 23, 2025

First Zetter Hotel in 10 Years to Open in London’s Bloomsbury Neighborhood

In early 2026, Zetter Hotels opens its first hotel in 10 years in London’s Bloomsbury neighborhood. The Zetter Bloomsbury will bring Georgian charm and elegance to life across its design-forward guestrooms and suites.

eFlyer News
May 21, 2025

Raffles Hotels & Resorts to Debut in Mexico in 2029

Raffles Hotels & Resorts will debut in Mexico with Raffles Estera East Cape Resort & Residences in 2029, marking the hotel brand’s entrance in North America. Set to occupy a stretch of unspoiled beachfront in Los Cabos’ East Cape community, which extends from San José del Cabo to Los Barriles, the resort and residences will feature 60 guestrooms and 46 branded residences in the first development phase.

Sail Unique with Explora Journeys

SAIL UNIQUE: A New Chapter in Luxury Ocean Travel Imagine a place where modern European elegance meets the rhythm of the sea — where time slows down, and every detail is crafted to inspire connection and quiet indulgence. This is Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean brand from MSC Group created to redefine how we explore the world.

eFlyer Deals
May 21, 2025

Celebrity Cruises Launches Limited-Time Sale

Celebrity Cruises’ Spring Sale is a can’t-miss. For travel now until June 2, save up to 75 percent on the second guest and get an additional $400 off per sailing.