Ashley Kangas

Vegas is my favorite place in the US to visit! You really only need a couple of days to experience the magic of this city, and no two trips are ever the same, adding to the excitement. I even got married there on New Year’s Day at The Little White Chapel. This destination will always be a special one for me, and I love helping people plan their Vegas escapes.

When you think of Positano, it’s impossible not to think of the iconic Le Sirenuse. This hotel is a bucket-list destination for so many travelers. After experiencing this hotel firsthand, I can easily see why. The views are next level, the service is top-notch, and the decor is unlike any other hotel I’ve ever seen. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, it is definitely worth splurging on this hotel.

Pack your bags, we’re going to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico! I’m so excited to share my favorite spots I always recommend to friends traveling here, especially SUR Beach House and Rooftop 360.

I travel to Cabo at least twice a year so I’m always up to date on the new and fun spots. I met my husband on vacation in Cabo, so this place will always be a special destination. I love helping to plan trips here!

Waldorf Astoria Pedregal Los Cabos will always be one of my favorite hotels. You can’t beat a hotel that serves chips, guac, beer, and tequila as part of their turndown service. Plus, a private plunge pool doesn’t hurt either. Anytime I’m in Cabo, I make sure to at least stop by one of their restaurants, even if I’m not staying there.

The hotels along the Amalfi Coast aren’t just places to stay—they’re experiences in themselves. Each one feels like a work of art, with incredible restaurants, stylish bars, rooftop views, beautiful rooms, pools, and so much more. Between the historic architecture and those jaw-dropping Mediterranean views, it’s easy to see why these hotels are considered some of the most stunning in the world. If there’s ever a time to splurge on a hotel, this is it, as you’ll be making memories just by being there. Even if you're not staying at these hotels, you'll definitely want to make a dinner reservation or stop by for a cocktail!

For me, it’s all about location when picking where to stay on vacation, and Covo dei Saraceni offered a prime spot along the Spiaggia Grande. With beachfront access, you are walking distance to all the restaurants, bars, shops, and ferries. The hotel pool offers the most insane views, making you feel like you’re living in a postcard.

The Maldives is at the top of so many people’s bucket lists, and for good reason. This out-of-the-world destination is nowhere like I’ve traveled before. Hotels take over their own islands throughout the Maldives region, and that hotel essentially becomes your playground for your trip. Yes, you have a room, but the entire resort is at your disposal.

Turks and Caicos is such an easy destination to get to from the East Coast and it's perfect for a quick or extended vacation. It’s all suites and villas at the Shore Club, so no matter what room you’re booking, you will be living it up with ample space, gorgeous decor, and beautiful views. Turks and Caicos is more of a hotel destination, so where you stay will really determine the vibe of your trip. There are enough pools, bars, and restaurants at the Shore Club to keep you entertained the whole time. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, you must book dinner at SUI-REN.

We ate, drank, and adventured our way through Puerto Vallarta! This place was perfect for a first anniversary celebration. There is so much to do and it’s all super centrally located so you can get around simply by walking or taking a quick taxi or Uber. Highly recommend for those looking for a couple’s trip.

Welcome to 12-time James Beard Award nominee Sam Fox’s first hotel project, The Global Ambassador Hotel. This ultra-luxurious property hit the Phoenix, AZ scene in December 2023 and it’s been buzzing ever since. From the intimate lobby bar to the lively rooftop, théa, this will be your new favorite hot spot in Phoenix. With over 20 years of hospitality experience, Sam Fox is a household name in Arizona. My personal favorites are Olive & Ivy, The Henry, North Italia, and of course, The Global Ambassador Hotel.

Welcome to Corazón Cabo! With a prime location in downtown Cabo San Lucas, there are endless options for activities, beach bars, shopping, and eateries just outside the hotel doors. They also have an awesome rooftop bar, Rooftop 360, which is where I met my husband. Even if you’re not staying at this hotel, you have to check out the roof during your trip.

You’ll feel like an A-list celeb hanging in your private pool villa and snacking on sushi beachside, sipping margs at 10 am. This place is $$$, but so worth it. Travel in style around the Mayakoba compound via golf cart or in a private cart to eat, drink, and spa at the other three equally impressive hotels: Rosewood Mayakoba, Fairmont Mayakoba, and Andaz Mayakoba. You really never have to leave the resort at all! There is so much to do at your own hotel & having access to the others makes it feel like you’re just staying at one exclusive resort.

Barcelona has been one of my favorite cities since my first visit back in 2011. It is the ideal vacation for friends, students traveling abroad, family, and significant others. There are constantly new restaurants, bars, attractions, and shops to visit in addition to those that have been around for years that never get old.

This was my fourth time sailing with Virgin Voyages, and each trip has been more fun than the previous. I’m already thinking of which voyage I’ll be joining next summer. Cruises are a great way to efficiently see so many cities while having fun, eating, drinking, and watching shows while transporting you to the next destination. You get so much more out of your vacation when the ship handles the heavy transportation. You literally wake up in a new place every day—you’re well rested, no sleeping in economy on the plane—it’s super easy.