Audra Thomas

Cape Town is one of those rare places where stunning natural beauty meets rich culture around every corner. We spent six days there in May to celebrate our daughter’s college graduation before a weeklong safari. From lush botanical gardens and historic wine farms to colorful neighborhoods and dramatic coastal drives, every day brings something different and enjoyable.

Iceland is a stunning country known for its dramatic landscapes with magnificent, waterfalls, black sand beaches, lava fields, glaciers and thermal vents. My husband and I explored the South Coast, the Highlands and the Blue Lagoon for a beat-the-Arkansas-heat trip in August 2023. We hiked on glaciers and through stark landscapes with thermal vents and enjoyed a few days of relaxation and bliss at the steamy waters of the Blue Lagoon.

Safaris in Africa are an incomparable experience. Our May trip to celebrate our daughter’s college graduation took us through the stunning landscapes of Zimbabwe and South Africa. From the serene Zambezi River to the untamed wilderness of Greater Kruger and Sabi Sands, this was the adventure of a lifetime.

My husband and I have been to Sedona, Arizona, many times hiking and relaxing in summer and fall. It is a stunning destination with its red rock formations and beautiful landscapes. But a January visit this year with snow cover was truly stunning! With fewer visitors in winter, we had hiking trails to ourselves, no trouble getting last minute dinner reservations or spa appointments.

Nizuc Resort and Spa is one of my husband's and my favorite Cancun resorts. Our first visit was at a corporate retreat, and we have made time to return many times, twice in 2023! In the heart of Cancun's splendor, Nizuc Resort and Spa exceeds expectations with their offering of luxury, adventure, and relaxation. Luxury Lifestyle Awards named Nizuc as their "2023 Best Beachfront Resort in Mexico".

Nestled on 12,000 acres in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Primland is a luxurious escape for travelers seeking tranquility, adventure and impeccable hospitality. My husband and I spent an enjoyable four nights there in March 2024.

My family of four spent an idyllic week on Kauai in May of 2023. When planning this trip, I asked fellow travelers, “Which Hawaiian Islands should we visit?”. Each time the answer was, “Kauai”. So, Kauai it was! Known as the "Garden Isle," it has a diverse microclimate. The North Shore is lusher and more tropical, with more rain showers and rainbows. It has the beautiful Na Pali coast. The South Shore has amazing beaches, is drier and closer to the airport. It is also an easy drive to Waimea Canyon, “the Grand Canyon” of Kauai.

Lake Louise, framed by mountains and glaciers, is one of the most famous mountain vistas in the world, located within Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. It has everything you need for an amazing trip. From gorgeous glacier lakes, hikes to tea houses, wildlife watching, scenic drives and high tea or fine dining by a cozy fire. There are relaxing spa services and one of North America's best wine cellars. My husband and I have visited numerous times over the past three decades. Most recently, we went for our "2022 Beat the Arkansas Heat & Escape the Empty Nest" trip after dropping off our last child at college.

New Zealand is nothing short of breathtaking! My husband and I spent nearly three incredible weeks driving the North and South Islands in early 2024, exploring this diverse and stunning country. With its ever-changing landscapes—from seas to mountains, glaciers to rainforests and subtropical canopies to volcanic terrains—New Zealand offers a wealth of natural beauty.