Alicen Holmes

Whenever I mention that the Cook Islands are the most beautiful island destination I have ever seen, people inevitably ask, "Where are they?"
Located in the South Pacific, the Cook Islands are a stunning destination, with exquisite beaches, lush landscapes, and a vibrant Polynesian culture. Aitutaki, in particular, is renowned for its crystal-clear lagoon, reminiscent of the shades of blue one often imagines.

With the absence of mass tourism, the Cook Islands are the perfect destination for couples looking for a relaxing getaway in an unspoiled tropical paradise. I celebrated a milestone wedding anniversary here and the experience was more than I could have wished for!

My first impression of Seville was that it was a city that lives and breathes joy. The city exudes a vibrant energy that is so contagious I didn’t want to leave. The warm weather and sunny skies bring everyone outdoors, filling the cafés and plazas with locals and tourists alike, soaking up the sun and the culture. The stunning architecture tells the stories of centuries past—from the intricate façade of the Seville Cathedral to the mix of cultural influences of the Royal Alcázar. Wandering through Barrio Santa Cruz felt as though I had stepped into a postcard, with its narrow alleys and cozy hidden spots. Seville quickly stole my heart and became my favorite city in Spain!

I finally checked off an item on my travel bucket list — transiting through the Panama Canal. I selected Silversea for its intimate and luxurious experience. Our Panama Canal itinerary was on the Silver Shadow. It is a 382-passenger ship that is on the smaller side regarding typical cruise ships. But it was large enough to have everything we needed on a luxury cruise.

Nicaragua is not just a destination, it's a whole vibe, offering adventure, relaxation and a taste of authentic Central American life all rolled into one epic travel experience! While Nicaragua’s neighbor, Costa Rica, gets most of the spotlight, Nicaragua is a gem waiting to be discovered! It's the kind of place where you can hike a volcano in the morning and relax on a beach in the afternoon. Plus, the food is amazing - think fresh seafood, flavorful Nicaraguan dishes and rich coffee that will awaken your taste buds.

My recommendation for accommodations is Rancho Santana located on 2,700 acres on Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast. This place has it all! Whether you're into peaceful nature hikes, hitting the waves for surfing, or horseback riding on the beach, Rancho Santana is the place to be.

Jordan is a bucket-list destination for many who dream of seeing the ancient city of Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. But the country is rich in history and dotted with geographical marvels and deserves much more than a cursory day trip to Petra. Jordan is the safest country in the Middle East and the people exude warmth and hospitality. As a traveler, “Welcome to Jordan” is the phrase you’ll most often hear. Jordan is an incredible destination and delivers an extraordinary travel experience. Be prepared to be blown away!

Guatemala is the ideal destination for solo travelers who are looking for a culturally enriching and adventurous travel experience. With its warm and welcoming locals, diverse landscapes and unique cultural encounters, this Central American country checks most of the boxes a solo traveler could ask for.

Safety seems to be the first topic that comes to mind when considering this destination and like most countries, there are indeed pockets of areas that aren’t the safest, but in general, Guatemala is definitely safe for solo travelers. And the word must be getting out because I saw and met quite a few solo travelers during my visit.

Whether you're seeking new friendships or simply have a need for a little self-discovery, Guatemala is perfect for solo travelers ready to embark on a journey of exploration and personal growth.

Buenos Aires, with its vibrant culture, tango music, and delicious cuisine, complements the natural beauty of Iguazu Falls seamlessly. Just like the perfect pairing of Argentine beef and Malbec wine, exploring the bustling city life of Buenos Aires and then immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of Iguazu Falls creates a well-rounded and unforgettable experience.