Kristyne Wada

Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto is a stunning, five-star luxury hotel that exudes a wonderful sense of place and offers guests a unique opportunity to authentically experience Japanese culture and traditions, both on and off property. In September 2023, I stayed at Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto for four nights on a travel advisor familiarization trip. I highly recommend it to my clients and hope that this review will inspire you to visit Japan and experience the magic of Kyoto for yourself.

Six Senses Douro Valley is the ultimate luxury stay in Portugal’s stunning Douro Valley. In November 2023, I stayed at Six Senses Douro Valley for three nights, and it blew my mind. The unique on-property experiences, comprehensive spa and wellness program, spectacular surrounding region, and exceptionally friendly service made it a remarkable stay. I highly recommend it to my clients and hope that this review will inspire you to visit the Douro Valley and experience the beauty of this region and its people.

For an off-the-beaten-path, adventurous and foodie destination in Japan, add Hokkaido to your itinerary. Getting from Tokyo to Hokkaido is easy with a flight time under two hours and multiple daily flights. This guide unlocks the secrets of Hokkaido and shares the best luxury stays and things to do in Tokyo and Hokkaido from my trip in November 2023.

Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) is a leading provider of luxury expedition cruises, with intriguing itineraries, a variety of shore excursions led by local guides that pique different interests (all included in the trip cost) and a highly experienced, logistically sophisticated expedition team. I sailed on A&K’s most popular expedition cruise, Cruising the Greek Isles, in June 2024, and I’m sharing everything you need to know, especially as a first-time cruiser. If you have questions or are looking for reassurance before booking any expedition cruise with A&K, please reach out to me!

Hawai’i is a vacation destination that I’ll never say no to, no matter how many times I’ve been. Having been to Waikiki and O’ahu dozens of times, I know it can be difficult to decide where to stay with so many options, but I’ve narrowed down the best hotels near Waikiki Beach for you to have the best Waikiki experience.

The Island of Hawai’i, or Big Island, is home to some of my favorite Hawaiian food like poke, shave ice and huli huli chicken. Combine that with stunning luxury resorts along the Kohala Coast and the gorgeous Hāpuna Beach (recently rated the best beach in the U.S.!) and you'll see why the Big Island is my favorite Hawaiian island. It’s a great vacation destination for couples or families looking to indulge, eat well and enjoy the unique natural beauty of the islands!

Italy is the ultimate honeymoon destination, and there is no place more romantic than Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast. For newlyweds looking for a luxurious, relaxing and wine-indulging Italian honeymoon, this itinerary will be the cherry on top of an already amazing wedding celebration and unforgettable time in your life.

Punta Mita is a gem in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, a quiet, exclusive resort community in Punta de Mita about an hour away from the bustling Puerto Vallarta area. Whether you want to completely rest and recharge or venture out to neighboring Sayulita or Las Marietas islands, Punta Mita is the ultimate barefoot luxury destination for couples, families, friends and solo travelers.

When some think of California wine country, Napa is often the first bucket-list destination that comes to mind, and rightfully so, with its renowned wineries, luxurious accommodations and stellar restaurant scene. However, Sonoma has its own unique charm with under-the-radar wineries, charming boutique hotels and hidden gem restaurants, making it the perfect year-round weekend getaway for a girls’ trip or a relaxing couples’ vacation. And while there’s plenty to do right in Sonoma Plaza, make sure to make a visit to neighboring Glen Ellen for a Japanese zen-inspired stay at Gaige House and a spectacular meal at Glen Ellen Star.