Amber Fox

Everyone who knows I am an avid traveler asks me about my favorite trip and now I have an answer for them! I can confidently say that this was the most fulfilling travel experience I have ever had. From the dramatic ocean vistas of Cape Town to the awe-inspiring power of Victoria Falls, from unforgettable wildlife encounters in Botswana to the world-class wineries of Franschhoek, this itinerary truly has it all. What makes this journey so special is the incredible diversity of experiences packed into a single trip and the people who delivered. The service was unparalleled at every stop, and I returned home with memories that will stay with me for a lifetime.

Iceland’s natural beauty is like nowhere else on earth. When you only have a week and want to see the country, but don’t want to spend all your time driving—this is your itinerary. It includes iconic sites and out-of-the-way treasures. It allows time for hiking and water adventures, while still covering most of the island.

When I first discovered the Azores about 10 years ago, I couldn’t understand why they were so overlooked. I was in awe of landscapes that shifted from dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea, to shimmering crater lakes, to serene rolling hills dotted with cattle, sheep, and endless hydrangeas. Historic towns showcased Portugal’s iconic architecture and colorful tilework. How could this paradise be so close to the US, yet free from the tourist crowds that overwhelm other parts of Europe?

When I return now, I find the islands a bit more discovered—but still blissfully crowd-free, with plenty of serene, magical corners to make your own. Tucked away in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are truly unlike anywhere else on Earth: nine volcanic islands celebrated by UNESCO for their natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Scotland is one of those places that you feel you’ve been to before. It’s familiar and exotic all at the same time. The scenery is spectacular and the welcomes are warm. It was the perfect location for a week-long trip with my cousins who all had different interests. It is ideal for a girls’ trip due to the safety, ease of transportation, beauty, and variety of things to do.

I like to balance my travel between hikes in beautiful locations followed by great food and wine. The Basque region fits that perfectly with unique culture, spectacular scenery and plenty of hiking trails. Once we had worked up an appetite, we found some of the best food and wine we had experienced in Europe.