Jennifer Singleton

I’ve been to Norway before on a road trip and completely fell in love with it, but we didn’t make it all the way up to the far north. This cruise gave me the chance to finally experience places like Tromsø and reach North Cape, which truly felt like being at the top of the world. Doing the Arctic polar plunge was such a fun bucket-list moment and something I’ll never forget. This itinerary felt like the perfect mix of peaceful, beautiful, and adventurous all at once.

Cape Town is one of those places that feels like nature is showing off in the best way. Seeing the penguins at Boulders Beach was such a fun, once-in-a-lifetime moment, and the Cape of Good Hope coastline is absolutely breathtaking. I loved how every stop felt different—ocean views, wildlife, and that fresh salty air everywhere you go. It’s the kind of trip that makes you feel lucky to be there and leaves you dreaming about going back.

Staying at Radisson Blu Mosi-Oa-Tunya Livingstone Resort in Livingstone, Zambia felt so peaceful and special. The kind of place that instantly makes you slow down and just soak it all in. One of my favorite memories was sitting by the pool, looking out over the Zambezi River, and spotting a hippo hanging out on the other side like it was the most normal thing in the world. Seeing Victoria Falls from both Zambia and Zimbabwe made the experience even more unforgettable, kind of like seeing Niagara Falls from both the United States and Canada. And with the resort’s river boat rides, it’s such a beautiful way to take in the scenery and feel completely present in the moment.

The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami is one of my favorite places to slow down and fully relax. It has that peaceful, tucked-away feel, but you’re still close enough to everything Miami has to offer if you want it. I love how easy it is to spend the day by the water, grab something great to eat, do a little shopping at Bal Harbour Shops, and just unwind. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel refreshed the second you arrive.

Grand Cayman is one of those places where the water is unreal, the island vibe is easy, and everything instantly feels like vacation the moment you land. I love how it can be as relaxing or adventurous as you want. Beach days on Seven Mile Beach, boat days to Stingray City and Rum Point, and incredible diving and snorkeling right off the island. The food scene is also such a standout, from casual beach bites to unforgettable waterfront dinners. No matter how many times I visit, it always feels like the kind of place I can’t wait to come back to.

Grand Cayman, and especially The Ritz-Carlton, has become a tradition for me. A place I return to year after year that somehow feels more magical each time. It’s where the turquoise water meets the softest sand, where the days are filled with gentle adventures and the evenings glow with sunsets that stop you in your tracks. I love that it’s both luxurious and completely relaxed, making it just as perfect for a quiet morning coffee as it is for a barefoot lunch by the beach. It’s more than a vacation spot for me. It’s a place that holds memories, laughter, and a little piece of my heart.

As a local who grew up here, Naples, Florida is all about an easy coastal lifestyle paired with natural beauty. The beaches are known for their powder-soft white sand—some of the softest in the world—and calm Gulf waters that are perfect for swimming and relaxing. Life moves at a laid-back pace with great restaurants, time on the water, and walkable areas woven into everyday living. Having grown up here, I’m always happy to answer any questions and help visitors experience Naples like a local.

The Balmoral in Edinburgh is special to me for both its timeless elegance and its unbeatable location right in the heart of the city on Princes Street. Sitting at the gateway to the Royal Mile with views of Edinburgh Castle, it perfectly blends historic charm with modern luxury. It’s a hotel that truly feels woven into the fabric of the city, making every stay feel distinctly and unmistakably Edinburgh. Walking out the front doors, you’re immediately surrounded by history, shopping, dining, and some of the most iconic sights in Scotland.

Naples will always hold a special place in my heart. I was born and raised here, and I still call it home today. I’ve been visiting this stretch of beach since I was a kid, back when it was the beloved Naples Beach Club. As a Four Seasons Preferred Partner, I absolutely had to check out the transformation into the new Naples Beach Club, A Four Seasons Resort. It’s been incredible to see such a meaningful place reimagined with the Four Seasons touch while still honoring the spirit of the original.

JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa is such a beautiful desert escape. It’s surrounded by mountains, cacti, and those incredible Arizona sunsets. We were upgraded to a room with a stunning view overlooking the pool and mountains, and one morning we even spotted a small group of deer wandering by just outside. It was such a peaceful moment that really set the tone for how calm and restorative this resort feels.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge holds such a special place in my heart especially just after the Christmas holidays, when the snow still blankets the cozy cabins and the festive lights shimmer across the frozen lake. There’s something peaceful and grounding about this spot in Jasper National Park, surrounded by mountains and nature at its quietest. I love skating on the lake, then warming up by the fire afterward, and seeing the resort’s friendly golden retriever who’s there daily to greet guests always makes it feel even more like home. It’s one of those places that makes you slow down and simply enjoy winter.

Fairmont Banff Springs truly feels like stepping into a winter fairytale. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, it’s surrounded by snow-covered peaks, frozen waterfalls, and the cozy charm of Banff town. The grand castle-like architecture, warm fireplaces, and stunning mountain views make it feel both luxurious and comforting. It’s a place where you can unwind, explore, and feel completely swept up in the magic of winter.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is one of those places that feels magical in every season. I’ve been lucky to visit in both summer and winter, and each has its own charm but winter truly transforms it into a wonderland. The trees dusted with snow, the mountains standing tall around the frozen lake, and the sound of sleigh bells as you ride to a frozen waterfall where ice climbers scale the glittering walls all make it unforgettable. Returning to the hotel for hot cocoa while watching skaters and hockey players glide across the ice is the perfect ending to a dreamy winter day.

The Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale feels like an instant escape, even though I live just a few hours away. It’s the perfect weekend getaway. It’s close enough to be easy, but far enough to feel like a true change of pace. I love how it blends sleek, modern luxury with breezy coastal charm, where mornings start with ocean views and evenings end with world-class dining. Every stay leaves me feeling refreshed, pampered, and already planning the next visit.

The Westin Grand Cayman holds a special place in my heart for its unbeatable location right on Seven Mile Beach, where the water is as blue as I remember it every time. It’s a place where my days naturally fall into a happy rhythm of beach walks, ocean swims, and sunset sails. I love that it’s relaxed enough for barefoot lunches yet polished enough for memorable dinners, all with the warm, easy charm of the Cayman Islands. Every visit feels like coming back to a familiar, sun-soaked friend who’s always ready to welcome me home.

Vail has a way of making you feel like you’ve stepped into a European alpine village without ever leaving Colorado. Inspired by the charming ski towns of the Alps, Vail’s Bavarian-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and cozy cafés give it a storybook feel and nod to its German and Austrian heritage. In winter, it transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland, with the sound of après-ski music drifting through the village and the scent of fresh pretzels and schnitzel wafting from warm, welcoming restaurants. Of course, it’s home to some of the best skiing in North America, from the legendary Back Bowls to wide, gentle greens perfect for beginners, but there’s just as much magic off the slopes. Whether you’re here for world-class skiing, strolling through boutiques, or soaking in the après scene, Vail delivers the best of alpine charm right here in the Rockies.

Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island is more than a resort—it’s an experience. Ride a tram or boat to explore the lush oceanfront grounds, snorkel in the lagoon, visit dolphins, or float down the lazy river. The saltwater lagoon is naturally fed by the ocean, allowing sea life like fish and turtles to come and go freely. You can even paddleboard or snorkel under the manmade waterfall, where sea turtles gather to eat. With a luau, multiple restaurants, a spa, golf, and cultural activities, it’s Big Island adventure all in one place.

Grand Hyatt Kauai is one of those places where you show up and immediately start wondering how to extend your stay... forever. The pools go on forever, there’s a saltwater lagoon you can float in like a very relaxed pineapple, and the grounds are so pretty it feels like Mother Nature had a glam team. We wandered through tropical gardens, got lost (in a good way), and somehow ended up at the spa more than once—oops. Honestly, if you’re looking for laid-back luxury with a side of mai tai, this is your spot.

Our Four Seasons Hualālai escape was pure Big Island magic from start to finish. I keep returning to this dreamy corner of Hawaii because, quite simply, it’s my favorite place in the world. We snorkeled in the King’s Pond. It’s actually a lava-carved aquarium. We loved gliding past bright fish in the clearest water imaginable. Afternoons were for lounging by the quiet pool, where ocean breezes, chilled pineapple, and warm aloha seemed to float in the air. And as the sun melted into the Pacific, we’d sit on our lanai with tiki torches flickering and waves rolling in, feeling like the rest of the world had quietly slipped away.

Maui will always have a piece of my heart, and the Four Seasons makes it feel like a dream you never want to leave. I kayaked straight from the beach to swim alongside humpback whales in early March. When floating in the water, hearing their songs echo around me as if they were just a few feet away, was one of the most surreal and beautiful moments of my life. The spa is pure bliss, and their robes are so soft and cozy I had no choice but to buy one to bring the feeling home. Dinner at Spago, especially their legendary Peking duck, is a must, and the breakfast spread is a total highlight. You can’t beat lunch or dinner at Ferraro’s, where I spotted whales leaping in the distance during the day, and again at sunset, jumping across the horizon like it was part of the show.

I’ve done this trip twice and would go again in a heartbeat—it’s that special. I’ve seen everyone from 5-year-olds to 90-year-olds loving every minute, because if you’ve got a sense of adventure, this journey is for you. Each day, you’re off the ship exploring a new island—walking alongside giant tortoises, snorkeling with sea lions, and spotting blue-footed boobies up close. The small-group feel, expert naturalist guides, and amazing food, combined with a ship that’s both comfortable and relaxing, make it one of the best multigenerational trips out there—equal parts exciting, educational, and totally unforgettable.

Hawai'i is really special to me for a lot of reasons. First off, the nature is just unbelievable — whether it's the beaches, waterfalls or all the lush greenery, I’m always in awe of how beautiful it is. Every corner feels like a little piece of paradise. It’s also a place where we’ve made so many great memories as a family. From beach days to exploring hidden spots, it’s just the perfect place to relax and spend time together. And I can’t forget the history — it’s rich with culture and traditions that make it feel so unique. The Hawai'ian vibe is like no other, and I always leave feeling like I've learned something new and connected with the spirit of the islands.