This bookstore has been called the "shortest trip to Africa without getting on a plane." Pan African Connection specializes in books that focus on the history, health and progression of African people. The shop's mission is to remind the world that Black history did not start in slavery, but in Africa. Organizing community events throughout the year, this bookstore also acts as an art gallery and resource center. This is the place to be if you're looking to be completely immersed in African culture.

A century from now, when the bards and historians of Dallas commemorate the city's subtle tradition of churning out great writers, they'll recognize The Wild Detectives as a home base for great literature and those who craft it. Luckily for us, we don't have to wait that long to realize the greatness of this local treasure. Whether hosting Ben Fountain or Will Clarke, the distinctive shop consistently shines a light on our local literary luminaries and their masterworks. You can catch these authors reading in person or check out their books at this bookstore-cum-bar.

Self care is the best care, they say, and there are plenty of reasons why Dallasites make a dash to the Ritz when the time comes for a little R&R. A trip to this spa is truly a treat because it's all about you and your lavish experience. Breathe deep and take in the aromas of the eucalyptus room after you explore the effects of the signature "Dean's Margarita Salt Glow" body scrub and massage. Indulge in the highly acclaimed Hydrafacial and don't forget to dine because, after all, The Ritz is at your service. Even with all of these impressive amenities and services, the big buzz about this spa always surrounds its sweet and savory snack bar ... go figure.

Nailuscious is a much-adored beauty haven for the mani-pedi fans looking for nail techs who deliver service with care. Patience is definitely key for this gem as it hugs the bustling traffic of Oak Lawn Avenue and parking is often scarce. It's well worth the trip, though, as owner Tuana Vo makes it her mission to get to know all customers personally and to make their nail experience blissful. Customer service and personalized attention ranks high on the menu, making this Uptown location everything you didn't know you needed right now.

Deep Ellum Distillery, an offshoot of Deep Ellum brewery, has been distilling small-batch vodka in Deep Ellum for a few years now. It was at the beginning of the COVID-19 epidemic, however, that they decided to take a break from helping us cleanse our souls with their spirits and started helping us cleanse our hands with their sanitizer. Since then they've handed out thousands of gallons of hand sanitizer both to local businesses, nonprofits, and to individuals through direct-to-consumer sales. Please don't inject it into your bloodstream, though, no matter who says so.

Le'Nard Meyers is more than good looks, a chiseled physique and an infectious smile. Affectionately known as "Nardi," the former NFL hopeful rocks the runway for many of DFW's top brands in addition to appearing in commercials for Zales. In today's industry, modeling requires more than just a fierce walk. Social media numbers, talents and other marketable skills play into success. Whether it's his "Energy Check" videos or tapping into his blossoming barbering biz, this gifted influencer has the makeup to be Dallas' next star.

For Goo Goo Eyes, it's all in a name. Customers rave about the vast selection of luxury sunglasses and prescription eyewear from names like Tory Burch, Fendi and Prada. "Merchandise is constantly evolving in an effort to keep up-to-the-millisecond with fashion trends," the trendy locale writes. Eyewear fanatics faithfully return to stock up on the latest trends and to experience the state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring that their latest specs will be seen on the scene. For those not totally "Goo Goo" over this space, give it a visit. For many, seeing is believing.

The guilt is real. Your dog is spending another day waiting by the door of your cramped, boring apartment. Even with a dog walker, your pup may only get an hour or less of exercise. But Dallas has many daycare options that offer pups a fun environment with plenty of frocklicking friends. The best for the urban dweller is Urban Paws in Deep Ellum. Urban Paws lets friendly dogs join the daycare fray with indoor and outdoor play options. Going on a getaway weekend? Urban Paws has your pooch covered with raised beds in individual townhome boarding units with a view of downtown. There is a small retail shop in the entrance for on-the-run dog accessories. Urban Paws also offers bathing and grooming and training classes. Best of all, they offer curbside pooch pick-up and drop-off.

Dear Dallas, there will be days where you will wish to express your fashion persona without looking like "everybody else." Or maybe you're feeling a tad bit "New York" or a little bit "L.A." Better yet, maybe name-brand designer labels are so yesteryear for you and monograms are oh-so played out. If this sounds like you, then you're in a pool with many other fashionistas who rave about the Nicole Kwon Concept Store in West Village. Boasting vegan handbags, vegan fashion, ethical apparel, jewelry and more, this eponymous shop racks a cult following that loves Kwon's eye for indie labels, up-and-coming designers and fashion-forward brands that she artfully curates from her travels around the world.

As clippers chomp down and your locks float down to the tile floor at Floyd's Barbershop, you might think for a second that you're in heaven. When you come to and inevitably say to yourself "Oh yeah, I'm just at a barbershop," even that won't be an accurate description of where you are. This is because Floyd's is more than a barber shop. It's one of the chillest places to hang out where you also just happen to be able to get your hair tuned up.