Gloria Elwood

Zermatt, Switzerland: famous for aprés-ski, immaculate chocolate shops, and the Matterhorn, also known to many as the Toblerone Mountain. It’s the kind of destination that usually requires advance planning, curated dinner reservations, and strategic coordination between train timetables and weather forecasts. A luxury-adventure sort of place. We booked it three days before and arrived with optimism and a rental car. The plan was “hiking, fresh air, nature, touch grass.” What we ended up with was better: a city wrapped in snow, a mountain that looked painted into the sky, and a sequence of events that made the trip feel more like something that happened to us than something we organized.

West Virginia is wild and wonderful—and not just in marketing slogans. With winding roads, pristine forests, the Appalachian Mountains, and towns seemingly frozen in time, this state offers one of the most honest, raw glimpses into the American landscape. There’s a magic to this region that’s best experienced unplugged. No constant notifications, no endless scrolling—just walks in the woods, stories by the fire, and yes, pepperoni rolls from a gas station bakery that will change your life. (You’ll know them when you see them.) This 5-day itinerary is built for families who want nature, charm, history, and a little local insight—using The Greenbrier and Snowshoe Mountain Resort as home bases.

After escaping the gray skies of the Netherlands for the golden warmth of Mallorca, I find myself returning to Holland again and again—not because I want to live there (at least not right now), but because there’s something magnetic about the place. This past trip brought me back to visit family and friends, but also gave me the perfect excuse to test something I’ve always wondered: What’s the best way to experience the Netherlands in just one week—without getting stuck in the tourist loop of Amsterdam? This itinerary is the answer. It’s a journey through five cities that show you the Netherlands beyond the postcards: Amsterdam (yes, still worth a stop), Leiden (historic charm), Delft (ceramic soul), Rotterdam (modern edge), and Utrecht (canal-side calm with a heartbeat). Thanks to the NS train system, hopping between cities is easy, quick, and comfortable. It’s perfect for travelers who want a deeper Dutch experience—one that blends iconic highlights with local favorites, and the occasional plate of fries or Stropewaffle.

Formentera, often overshadowed by its glamorous big sisters Ibiza and Mallorca, remains one of the Balearics’ best-kept secrets. With its pristine, crowd-free beaches and a laid-back, hippie charm that dates back to the ‘70s (when legends like Bob Dylan and Pink Floyd would vanish here to escape the spotlight), the island offers a kind of magic you won’t find anywhere else in the Mediterranean. It’s small, it’s serene, and it’s the perfect destination for a long weekend escape. Here’s how to make the most of three dreamy days on Formentera.

I first came to Albania on a study trip, drawn by the opportunity to explore Tirana’s potential as a growing destination for tourism. Our focus was on how the city's current infrastructure supports its ambitions—but what I discovered went far beyond research. Albania, a country shaped by a complex and often challenging past, is home to some of the most genuinely welcoming people I’ve ever met. There’s an undeniable warmth here—a quiet pride, a generosity of spirit—that makes you feel like more than just a visitor. Its cultural richness is woven into daily life: in the flavors of its cuisine, the distinct charm of its architecture, and the soulfulness of its art. From the dramatic peaks of the Albanian Alps to the untouched, crystal-clear stretches of Mediterranean coastline, the country's natural beauty is nothing short of breathtaking. Albania is still largely unknown to the casual traveler — a hidden gem waiting patiently on the edge of discovery. But it won’t remain a secret for long. With its deep history, stunning landscapes, and heartfelt hospitality, it’s only a matter of time before the world takes notice.

Thailand isn’t just a destination —it’s a layered stage of opulence, mysticism and emotion. As seen in The White Lotus Season 3, it’s the perfect place to get lost and possibly find something, whether it's a new perspective, a secret beach or just a really good Pad Thai. Let’s tailor your own cinematic escape, minus the drama (unless that’s your thing).

Mallorca has so much to offer as a destination — it truly has something for everyone. History and culture enthusiasts can explore charming villages and the stunning old city of Palma, where cultural events take place year-round. For those seeking relaxation, the island boasts pristine beaches and luxury resorts along its breathtaking coastline.

Nature lovers will be captivated by the dramatic landscapes of the Tramuntana mountains and the vibrant marine life of the Mediterranean. And if nightlife is your thing, Palma and Andratx offer upscale bars and clubs, while Magaluf delivers a lively party scene for a younger crowd.

Since moving here a year ago, I’ve discovered that Mallorca always has something special to offer. It makes sure even the most discerning traveler leaves with unforgettable memories.

I was born in Aruba and I am very proud that it has some of the world's cleanest water and is the safest island in the Caribbean. The convenient location puts Aruba out of the way of hurricanes, and the shallow clear water on the western coast is a bit too warm for sharks making it the best place to swim. Aruba is a popular breeding and laying destination for turtles so it is quite common to spot them. The Island is also a popular vacation spot for celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Stephen King and the royal family of the Netherlands.

Leiden is a beautiful city that is easily reachable by train from Amsterdam. Many people actually prefer it because it is very genuine and features way less tourists. This is also the town of windmills, canal houses and of course, tulips. Surrounding Leiden is a large park called Singel Park that is easy to follow and perfect for a day out with your dog.

Famously known for skiing and fondue, Chamonix is a dog-friendly town that offers countless activities for every person. So whether you want to do something adventurous or just go out to the French Alps for a spa weekend with beautiful views, Chamonix has something for everyone. Indulge in sweet mountain life in the capital of the ski world!