Erica Hanger

Uruguay feels like a deep exhale: a place where café culture, beach life, and creative neighborhoods all move at an unhurried pace. Montevideo’s rambla invites long walks and sunset mate, while Punta del Este offers easy access to dunes, wetlands, and lesser-known coastal towns. What I love most is how simple it is to travel thoughtfully here: eat seasonal, support small producers, and choose experiences that protect the coastline. Come for the design and beaches, stay for the warmth, live music, and the everyday rituals that make the country feel instantly welcoming.

Edinburgh holds a special place in my heart as a city that perfectly balances ancient history with vibrant modern culture. Visiting in winter allows you to take in the beauty of the city without the crowds. There's something magical about wandering through medieval streets where literary legends once walked, then cozying up in a warm pub as the winter mist rolls in. The Scottish concept of "coorie"—that deep sense of warmth, comfort, and togetherness—feels woven into the very fabric of this city, especially during winter. It's a place that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and create meaningful memories with the people you love.

Experiencing Easter in Athens is witnessing Greece at its most authentic and spiritually profound. The city transforms into a living celebration where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with contemporary life, creating an atmosphere unlike any other time of year. From the solemn candlelit processions through the Plaka to the midnight resurrection services and the joyous feasts that follow, Athens during Holy Week offers travelers a rare glimpse into the heart of Greek culture and Orthodox faith. This is my favorite time to visit Athens because you experience the city not just as a tourist, but also as a welcomed guest in one of humanity's most meaningful celebrations.

Saba is a rare gem in the Caribbean—a 5-square-mile volcanic island that has resisted mass tourism and preserved its authentic character. Known as the “Unspoiled Queen,” this special municipality of the Netherlands offers remarkable diving, hiking through cloud forests, and a pioneering approach to sustainability that includes working toward 100% renewable energy. What makes Saba truly special is its commitment to conservation and community-led initiatives, from marine protection to creative cultural programs, proving that small islands can lead the way in responsible tourism.

Georgia’s wine region isn’t just about tasting exceptional wines—it’s about experiencing an unbroken 8,000-year tradition that lives and breathes in every family-owned vineyard. From watching winemakers tend their buried qvevri vessels to sharing chacha toasts at sunset overlooking the Alazani Valley, this is where wine culture is woven into the fabric of daily life, and what a privilege to join such hospitable people and share stories over delectable food and wine. What makes Georgia’s wine country truly special is the warmth of its people, who welcome you not as tourists but as honored guests in a centuries-old ritual of hospitality and craft.