Alexis Welch

Rome is one of the most magnificent cities in the world. It feels unlike anywhere else because it’s a city where everyday life exists alongside thousands of years of history. You can walk past ancient ruins on your way to dinner, sip espresso in a piazza that has existed for centuries, and turn a corner to find world-famous art or architecture without even trying. It is also home to one of the busiest airports in Europe, and this guide was created for wanderlust travelers who are passing through Rome en route to their next destination, whether that’s home or another fabulous European city.

Ah, Florence: the birthplace of the Renaissance, a city where art, history, and everyday life blend seamlessly. From masterpieces by Michelangelo and Botticelli to its stunning architecture, charming piazzas, and world-renowned cuisine, Florence offers an experience that feels both timeless and vibrant. Whether you're admiring the Duomo, studying art at the Uffizi Gallery, strolling along the Arno River, or savoring a glass of Tuscan wine, every corner of Florence tells a story that has captivated travelers for centuries. It just never gets old!

My sister-in-law, a Mazatlán native, was instrumental in helping me create this comprehensive guide to one of Mexico's most underrated coastal destinations. When she and my brother celebrated their wedding in Mazatlán, our family had the opportunity to experience firsthand the city's vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and warm hospitality. If you're searching for an affordable getaway that combines authentic Mexican cuisine, rich local traditions, and just the right amount of adventure, Mazatlán is a destination well worth considering.

I come from a family of experienced sailors, and I learned how to sail in the BVIs, so these islands are extra special to me. The BVIs have a way of feeling both luxurious and wonderfully untouched at the same time. With deep sapphire waters, secluded beaches, and a relaxed sailing culture, the BVIs offer a slower, more intentional kind of Caribbean escape—one that feels more about experiences than crowds. What makes these islands unique is their geography. More than 60 islands and cays are scattered close together, creating calm, protected waters that are ideal for island hopping by boat.

The Cayman Islands are best known for their powdery beaches and impossibly clear blue waters—shifting from pale turquoise to deep hues of sapphire. The Caymans stand out among other Caribbean destinations because of their laid-back island ease. If you’re looking for the perfect combination of sophistication and true relaxation, The Caymans should definitely be at the top of your list. This is also a great destination for families. There’s no shortage of activities for little ones to teens.

Harbour Island and Spanish Wells sit just north of Eleuthera, one of the largest islands in The Bahamas. Harbour Island is best known for its stunning, world famous 3-mile-long Pink Sand Beach, which gets its unique color from pulverized coral and shells. Known as “Briland” to locals, it is a premier destination famous for its charming, pastel-colored New England-style cottages, upscale resorts, and a relaxed, refined atmosphere. My family has been coming here for years, and if you’ve been thinking about where to book an upscale beach vacation, Harbour Island is most definitely the place.

Sicily has a way of feeling both timeless and alive all at once. It’s a place where layers of history—Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman—are not tucked away in museums but woven into everyday life, from crumbling hilltop ruins to ornate baroque cities. The landscapes shift dramatically within short distances: golden beaches, volcanic slopes, citrus groves, and sun-drenched countryside that seem to slow time itself. What truly sets Sicily apart, though, is its atmosphere. Meals linger for hours, markets buzz with color and conversation, and there’s a deep appreciation for simple sensory pleasures—fresh seafood, handmade pasta, local wine, the warmth of the sun. It’s not just a destination you check off a list. It’s a place you feel, where every moment invites you to savor, explore, and connect.

The Bahamas (especially Eleuthera) is incredibly special to me. As a high school student, I studied abroad at The Island School, and the experience had a lasting impact on me. The Bahamas (which is made up of over 700 islands) is best known for its stunning turquoise waters, world-renowned beaches, and top-tier diving, snorkeling, and sailing. Eleuthera is home to spectacular wildlife, delicious tropical fare, and vibrant Caribbean culture. If you’re traveling to The Bahamas, you can’t miss a visit to Eleuthera!

London has always held a special place in my heart. I studied abroad there during my junior year of college, and it quickly became my soul city. There’s something uniquely energizing about its rich history, vibrant art, and dynamic culture—and there’s never a shortage of things to do or incredible places to eat.