If you consumed any of my California “content” a couple weeks ago, you might have noticed that I’ve recently become a fan of the house swap. During my trip to Los Angeles, I stayed in my friend Jihan Zencirli’s charming Laurel Canyon bungalow while she inhabited my Flatiron NYC apartment.

I found that this particular arrangement was successful because it was an even trade. Both homes are well-curated and situated in iconic destinations. Though the perks were different—Jihan’s place came with a car to drive around town, while mine offered shelves filled with booze to drink—we both felt like it was a treat to briefly exchange lives.

If you can find a friend with a corresponding schedule and an attractive abode, then I definitely suggest swapping with a pal. I know such circumstances are hard to come by, but that doesn’t mean you can’t pull off a The Holiday-style switch of your own. Behomm is specifically designed to match creatives and design lovers who want to trade places, while the startup Kindred aims to create a trusted swapping community.

For those just looking for a unique getaway, Boutique Homes is my favorite spot for booking chic vacation rentals. In fact, that’s where my friend Julia found the Grecian villa she’s currently renting for her 50th birthday and I was honored to snag an invite. I just landed in Athens yesterday and I’m heading to the dreamy locale (pictured above) as I type. Though it’s not a house swap, this sunny Agean trip is just what I need.

Favorite links this week

LEARNING TO READ

For decades, the “balanced literacy” method was the most respected way to teach children to read. Now, elite educators are reconsidering the technique and reintroducing phonics into daily lesson plans—and it’s causing a stir in the community.

WHERE TO BUY WINE

In my travels, I’ve noticed a phenomenon that PUNCH recently reported on: America’s best new specialty wine shops have so much to offer. Not only do they provide helpful wine education and bottle recommendations, but many double as bars, music venues, bookshops, and more.

DINING WITH CELEBS

If you’re looking to eat alongside the likes of Kim Kardashian and Lizzo, it’s no secret where you should dine, says Eater. Book a table at celebrity hotspots like Nobu Malibu or Sant Ambroeus Soho and you’re bound to enjoy an A-list siting.

WINDMILL X AGNP

New York City already experienced its first heat wave of the season and it’s not even officially summer yet. But I’m not stressed about the high temperatures to come because I recently installed my Windmill, a state-of-the-art air conditioning window unit that checks all my boxes. Sleek, minimalist, and—most importantly—powerful, it’s the AC I’ve always wanted.

I set up my Windmill in my bedroom, which especially needs a cool-off on hot nights. The unit is perfect because even though it’s situated directly above my bed, it blows air upwards into the room instead of blasting it directly onto me. This method is not only supremely comfortable, but also eco-friendly because the air circulates the room efficiently.

My Windmill is also app enabled, so I can get my room crisp and chilled before I get home and control it remotely if I forget to turn it off. Plus, it’s super quiet, so I can always sleep soundly—and cooly—throughout the night. I truly can’t survive a summer without it.

Use the code PJ30 for $30 off your Windmill purchase

THE BEST SPRING BOOKS

From compelling cookbooks written by friends to a beautiful monograph on one of my favorite artists, this May is especially bountiful when it comes to new releases. Here are the seven titles I’m eager to add to my shelves.

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