Emily Martin

Tucked high above the Aegean on the island of Sifnos, Hotel Verina Astra is the kind of hideaway that instantly makes you slow down, breathe deeper, and savor the moment. It’s a boutique retreat that blends Cycladic charm with understated luxury—whitewashed walls, natural textures, and panoramic sea views that shift in color from sunrise to starlight. From lounging by the infinity pool to discovering nearby villages and indulging in fresh, garden-to-table dining, every detail at Verina Astra feels designed to immerse you in the rhythm of island life. This is where comfort meets authenticity, and where a few days can feel like a restorative escape into another world. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a girlfriends’ getaway, or a solo retreat, Hotel Verina Astra delivers the perfect mix of elegance, comfort, and location. I went with a group of 15 for my bestie’s 40th Birthday and we had the most magical time. The hotel is just small enough that we felt like we had it all to ourselves, yet we didn’t do a full buyout. As a Fora Pro travel advisor and luxury travel expert behind The JetSetting Fashionista, I’d be delighted to help you plan your stay in Sifnos, Greece. From personalized hotel bookings to curated tasting itineraries and insider restaurant reservations, I’ll make sure your trip is seamless and unforgettable. Let’s plan your escape to Greece—reach out and I’ll handle all the details.

Looking for a luxury mountain-meets-lake getaway in the Pacific Northwest? The Shore Lodge in McCall, Idaho, is one of the region’s most sought-after destinations for travelers craving both outdoor adventure and elevated relaxation. Situated directly on the pristine shores of Payette Lake in charming McCall, ID, this iconic lakeside resort offers the ultimate in rustic-chic style, natural beauty, and laid-back luxury. Perfect for year-round travel, Shore Lodge is ideal for couples, families, or friend getaways looking to experience the best of Idaho’s high country. From summer boating and kayaking to winter skiing and snowshoeing, McCall offers four seasons of adventure, while the lodge provides a serene retreat to unwind in between.

If you’re searching for a luxury hotel in Melbourne that blends historic grandeur with modern sophistication, look no further than the InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto. Situated in the heart of the Central Business District (CBD), this iconic five-star hotel is housed within a stunning late 19th-century Venetian Gothic-style building, making it one of the most architecturally captivating hotels in all of Australia. I had the pleasure of staying at this exceptional property in January 2025 during the Australian Open—and I truly fell in love. From the moment I walked through its heritage façade, I was struck by the seamless fusion of old-world charm and contemporary elegance. The soaring atrium, dramatic ironwork, and vintage brickwork set the stage for a luxurious escape. The InterContinental Melbourne offers beautifully appointed rooms and suites that feel both cozy and opulent, perfect for both leisure seekers and business travelers alike. Think plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and skyline views that remind you you’re in one of Australia’s most dynamic cities. What truly stood out, though, was the impeccable service—warm, attentive, and authentically Australian. Whether it was enjoying a perfectly crafted cocktail in the Bluestone Bar, indulging in fine local flavors at Alluvial Restaurant, or simply returning to a room that had been refreshed with thoughtful touches, everything felt intentional and elevated. The hotel’s location is another massive highlight. Nestled on Collins Street, you’re within walking distance of Melbourne’s laneway cafés, luxury shopping, the Yarra River, and iconic venues like the Melbourne Arts Centre and Federation Square. And if you’re a tennis fan like me, staying here during the Australian Open put me right in the heart of the action—both on and off the court. As a Fora Pro Advisor, I would be thrilled to help you plan a memorable stay at this world-class hotel in one of Australia’s most vibrant and culturally rich cities. Whether you’re heading to Melbourne for a sporting event, a foodie getaway, or a luxury city break, the InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto is a truly exceptional choice.

Let’s create a customized travel experience tailored just for you—from exclusive perks to insider recommendations.

Park Hyatt Sydney is a luxury waterfront hotel offering elegant rooms with stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Known for its sophisticated design, exceptional service, and world-class dining, it provides an unforgettable stay in the heart of Sydney's Circular Quay. Having personally stayed here, I can attest that this is one of the most impressive hotels I have ever experienced. The location, the room amenities, the service—it has it all and will not disappoint! I loved our room with a private balcony including harbor views and the Sydney Opera House. This is truly one of the most magical hotels, and I would love for any luxury travelers to experience it first-hand. You will love it!

Ko'a Kea Resort on Poipu Beach is an intimate, oceanfront boutique hotel on Kauai's sunny south shore. This incredible resort is known for its romantic ambiance and exceptional service. Just steps away from the sand, this resort provides a serene escape. Guests can indulge in modern Hawaiian cuisine at the award-winning Red Salt restaurant, unwind at the full-service spa featuring treatments with local ingredients and enjoy activities like beachfront yoga, snorkeling and surfing. Recognized as one of Kauai’s top resorts, Ko'a Kea offers a luxurious and tranquil Hawaiian experience you won’t want to miss.

During the Spring of 2025, I had the pleasure of visiting this amazing resort first hand and staying for a few days. It’s truly such a magical destination and the resort is super intimate and a great four-star hotel experience. I would highly recommend the hotel not only for its oceanfront location, but the service was great, the food beyond amazing and the overall experience was wonderful! It also has a super small intimate feel vs. a bigger hotel so you really get to know the staff and other guests (if you choose to). For travelers who like a small boutique hotel vibe the Ko’a Kea is perfect for you!

As a Fora Pro Advisor, I’d be delighted to assist in planning your visit to this incredible Hawai'i destination.

The Grand Hotel in Oslo, Norway, is a historic and luxurious landmark in the heart of the city. Known for its elegant rooms, exceptional service and iconic rooftop bar with stunning views, the hotel seamlessly blends classic charm with modern amenities. Its prime location near popular attractions, making it an ideal choice for exploring Oslo in style.

I stayed here years ago and loved the old-world glamor, the amazing location, the great service and everything about this hotel!

As a FORA Pro Advisor, I’d be delighted to assist in planning your visit to this fabulous Norway destination.

The Meritage Resort and Spa, Napa Valley offers a luxurious retreat in the heart of wine country. With elegant accommodations, a world-class spa, delicious on-site dining and even a live music concert series. The Meritage Resort and Spa provides the perfect blend of relaxation with nice rooms and a convenient location from San Francisco Airport and close to Napa Valley’s Wine Country.

In addition to their great resort amenities, they have various live concerts year round, which makes this a fabulous destination for live music, skating on their ice rink in the winter months and more fun for the family!

As a FORA Pro Advisor, I’d be delighted to assist you in planning your visit to this luxurious Napa Valley destination.

The Fairmont Olympic Hotel in Seattle is a landmark of luxury and elegance, blending historic charm with modern sophistication. Located in the heart of downtown, this iconic hotel offers luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining and world-class service. With its rich history and prime location near Seattle's top attractions, the Fairmont Olympic promises an unforgettable stay.

I have stayed here numerous times, and each time I fall more in love with this historic Seattle gem. Between their incredible lobby bar to their afternoon tea and great dining, this hotel is wonderful. If you visit during the holidays with your children, plan to visit their teddy bear suite, which is always a delight for me and my Seattle-based nieces.

As a FORA Pro Advisor, I’d be delighted to assist you in planning your visit to this luxurious Seattle destination.

Guests at Timber Cove Resort are treated to cozy, rustic-chic accommodations that seamlessly combine mid-century modern design with natural elements. Offering a warm and inviting retreat. The resort boasts breathtaking coastal scenery, exceptional dining that highlights local cuisine. There are also a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking scenic trails to unwinding by the fire pit along the stunning coastline.

Timber Cove promises an unforgettable stay, perfectly capturing the essence of California's coastal beauty.

As a FORA Pro Advisor, I’d be delighted to assist you in planning your visit to this enchanting California coast destination.

Planning on visiting Oslo, Norway this year? Hotel Bristol, established in 1920, is a luxurious and elegant gem in the heart of Oslo. Its central location makes it incredibly convenient for exploring the city. With restaurants, attractions and activities all within walking distance or a short ride away. Oslo is a city best explored on foot or by bike. During my visit, renting bikes or scooters was a popular and enjoyable way to navigate the city without relying on taxis or busses.

As a Fora Pro Advisor, I’d be delighted to assist in planning your visit to this fabulous Norway destination.

Planning a trip to Healdsburg, California and searching for the ideal place to stay? Nestled in the heart of Sonoma wine country, Healdsburg is a picturesque town brimming with charm. As a Luxury Blogger for The JetSetting Fashionista, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring nearly every hotel in the area. I’m excited to share my expertise to help you discover the best accommodations Healdsburg has to offer.

As a Fora Pro Advisor, I’d be delighted to assist in planning your visit to this enchanting wine country destination I’m fortunate to call home.

The Sea Ranch Lodge in California is a tranquil coastal retreat, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Northern California coastline. Renowned for its harmonious minimalist design that blends seamlessly with nature, the lodge features luxurious accommodations, farm-to-table dining and a variety of outdoor activities. Ideal for those seeking peace and serenity, the Sea Ranch Lodge provides an unforgettable escape where natural beauty takes center stage. With breathtaking scenery, exceptional service, and memorable guest experiences, this destination will captivate your heart and make you never want to leave.

Perched in the breathtaking landscapes of Todos Santos, Mexico, Paradero Hotel is more than a place to stay. It’s a sanctuary where nature, luxury and culture converge. Thoughtfully designed to immerse guests in the surrounding beauty, Paradero offers serene accommodations with panoramic views of rugged mountains, sweeping deserts and the sparkling Pacific. At its heart, Paradero champions experiential travel. From farming and hiking to yoga and culinary workshops, every activity invites a deeper connection to the region. The farm-to-table restaurant elevates local flavors, delivering a sensory journey that mirrors the hotel’s ethos of harmony with the land. When I visited in September of 2021, I was captivated by the hotel’s understated elegance, the welcoming team and the effortlessly cool vibe. Paradero strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal escape for travelers seeking something extraordinary. If you’re dreaming of a getaway that blends eco-conscious design, cultural immersion and soul-soothing tranquility, I’d love to help you plan your visit to Paradero Hotel.

The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon is a luxurious five-star property located in the heart of Portugal's vibrant capital. Offering a blend of contemporary elegance and classic Portuguese charm, this iconic hotel features spacious rooms and suites with stunning views of the city or the Eduardo VII Park.

Renowned for its exceptional service, the Ritz Lisbon combines a refined atmosphere with modern comforts, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers. I visited this hotel years ago and loved every moment of my stay. It also has one of the most magical luxury hotel brunches I have ever experienced (and I’ve landed in 48 countries so that is saying a lot). Be sure to book The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon's Sunday brunch and see for yourself during your stay.

Why visit the St. Regis Punta Mita? First off, it’s in Mexico, one of the top warm-weather destinations for travelers from the United States and beyond. Plus, it’s a St. Regis. Having visited various St. Regis hotels, I couldn’t have had a more incredible visit. The level of service, the breathtaking property, exquisite dining and overall luxurious experience surpassed my expectations in every way. Read more about my trip below to see why you need to visit The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort.

The Four Seasons Mexico City Hotel is an oasis of luxury and elegance in the heart of the city. This five-star hotel combines contemporary style with Mexican heritage, featuring a stunning courtyard garden, refined rooms and top-tier amenities. Guests can indulge in renowned dining options and enjoy artisanal cocktails. With a luxurious spa, rooftop pool and proximity to major cultural sites, Four Seasons Mexico City offers a tranquil, sophisticated retreat in one of the world's most vibrant cities. Continue reading to see why you should stay at The Historic Four Seasons Mexico City Hotel

Farmhouse Inn is a luxury boutique hotel in Sonoma County with 25 guest rooms, two farm-to-table restaurants and a spa set on a property dating from 1873. It's two miles from Sonoma wineries and 21.7 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Your inspired escape to Wine Country. They value high-quality local goods and embrace all that the beautiful california wine country has to offer. From bathing to adventuring to dining, the farmhouse inn will show you simple luxury in true wine-country form.

I had the pleasure of staying here and fell in love with the authentic, laid-back, yet luxurious vibe, their attention to detail, their incredible service, amazing amenities, on-site pool and spa and Michelin-starred restaurant. Read all about my stay on my blog, The JetSetting Fashionista.

I have stayed at the Solage, an Auberge Resorts Collection a few times and loved it every visit. Solage Calistoga, an Auberge resort, is a luxury hotel and spa in the heart of California’s Napa Valley wine country. With an emphasis on wellness, luxury and relaxation, this resort will have you looking and feeling your very best for your stay in Calistoga. All moments away from all of the natural wonders of northern California and the amazing food and drinks of wine country. The restaurant Solbar is exquisite and recently they added a more casual Mexican restaurant by the pool called Picobar.

Being a wine country Native in Healdsburg, California, it can be easy for me to get used to the beauty of where I live in Sonoma County, and sometimes I need a Montage Healdsburg Weekend Getaway to reset and really enjoy the beautiful landscape around me. The Montage Healdsburg is one of my favorite places to go when I need a mini retreat, some R & R and just pure bliss.

From the incredible food, unbeatable views, and relaxing spa, all you need to feel renewed is right here. Learn more about my stay on my blog The JetSettingFashionista. Be sure to check out my Spa & Pool Guide to the Montage Healdsburg on the blog as well. Their spa is one of the best in Sonoma, California.

Curious to see the best Luxury Spa's in Sonoma, see my Sonoma Luxury Spa guide on my blog.

The Ritz-Carlton Bali Nusa Dua is an extraordinary destination that offers a harmonious blend of luxury, nature and culture. It is the ultimate retreat for those seeking an unforgettable Balinese experience and I wholeheartedly recommend it to any traveler looking to create lasting memories in one of the most beautiful corners of the world.

I have been to Bali twice over the years and on my second trip I had the privilege of staying at the Ritz-Carlton Bali. This was one of my most memorable stays at any Ritz-Carlton Property. Over the years, I’ve been lucky to stay at quite a few including Bali, Hawaii, California and more. This hotel is fairly new, and was only a few years old during my 2019 visit. Read all about my visit to the Ritz-Carlton Bali on my blog here

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Nicaragua, Rancho Santana stands as a beacon of luxury and tranquility. From its stunning vistas to its delectable cuisine and commendable service — hovering at the cusp of a solid 4-star hotel experience — this resort offers an unparalleled getaway. It's an oasis where every detail is meticulously crafted to ensure an unforgettable stay. Moreover, what truly sets Rancho Santana apart is its exceptional value proposition. With accommodations rivaling those of 4 to 5-star establishments, yet priced at a fraction of what you'd typically find in destinations like Mexico, Hawaii or the Caribbean, this resort provides a lavish experience without the hefty price tag. Rancho Santana is not just a destination; it's an invitation to indulge in luxury without compromise.

I recently had the extraordinary privilege of visiting the magnificent Park Hyatt Hotel as a guest of Hyatt Hotels in Bangkok, and I must say, it was an unparalleled experience. From the moment I stepped inside, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of luxury and sophistication. My incredible stay at Park Hyatt Bangkok was marked by every detail, from the elegant decor to the impeccable service, curated to ensure an unforgettable visit. The hotel's dedication to excellence truly made my stay exceptional and left me eager to return. For those seeking a truly lavish experience, the Park Hyatt Hotel in Bangkok is an absolute must-visit destination.

Embarking on a journey to the Andaz Pattaya Resort at Jomtien Beach in Thailand was an experience that left an indelible mark on my memory. From the moment I stepped foot into this extraordinary resort, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury and hospitality. The impeccable service provided by the staff, coupled with the opulent facilities and culinary delights, exceeded even the loftiest of expectations. From the moment I arrived until the day of my departure, every moment was filled with wonder and delight. It is my pleasure to share the magic of the Andaz Pattaya Resort and showcase why it stands as a beacon of luxury on the shores of Jomtien Beach.

This resort is conveniently located about 1.5 hours from Bangkok. Plan a few days in Bangkok first and stay at the Park Hyatt (which I personally experienced on this trip), then enjoy some beach time at the stunning Andaz Pattaya Resort at Jomtien Beach.

During my recent trip to Asia, I had the pleasure of visiting several fantastic Hyatt hotels in some of the region's most prominent cities. One of the highlights of my journey was my stay in Singapore, where I experienced the exceptional Andaz Singapore.

This June, I had the pleasure of visiting New Orleans (NOLA) for the first time to celebrate my birthday. I was thrilled about this trip and even more excited to stay at the recently opened Four Seasons New Orleans. The hotel was magnificent, offering stunning, modern rooms and enormous bathrooms that felt luxurious and welcoming. With two on-site restaurants, an outdoor pool and the most gorgeous lobby featuring the CHANDELIER BAR, my stay was nothing short of spectacular. Every detail of the hotel exceeded my expectations, making my birthday celebration unforgettable with my dear girlfriend. .

The MacArthur Place combines charm with modern elegance, offering guests an unforgettable experience in wine country. With its beautifully landscaped gardens, world-class spa, stunning recently renovated pool and exquisite dining options, MacArthur Place provides the perfect setting for relaxation and indulgence.

Whether you're exploring local wineries, enjoying gourmet meals or simply unwinding in the serene ambiance, MacArthur Place promises a memorable stay in one of Sonoma's most picturesque downtown locations. Join me on my blog as I share why MacArthur Place is the ideal choice for your next visit.