Lacey Hayes

I stayed at Schloss Elmau’s The Retreat with my partner and child, and it is the most refined alpine property I’ve experienced. Set in a quiet Bavarian valley, it’s high-end in execution, with no shortcuts in design, materials, or service. The property blends luxurious alpine retreat with wellness and family-friendliness, which is a rare and unique combination. Everything, and especially the views, were exceptional, and I cannot wait to return!

It’s the kind of place where a staff member dressed as a scarecrow mascot, Almi, can walk your child from the dining room to the kids club—and you don’t think twice about it. Hotel Almhof in Gerlos, Austria has reset my expectations for family travel in the Alps by removing the usual stress. Outside of a cruise, it’s one of the only places I’ve experienced where kids are completely engaged through real infrastructure and programming, and tired parents can actually switch off. The thoughtful design and exceptional on-the-ground support make family travel in the Austrian Tyrol easy in a way most hotels can’t achieve.

I’ve always loved Germany and Austria, but when traveling with my family, I wanted something beautiful and authentic without the stress. This itinerary reflects that mindset, pairing the Austrian Tyrol and Bavarian Alpine regions that flow naturally together with locally owned, child-centered luxury hotels where kids are genuinely welcomed and tired parents like me can actually relax. The pacing is intentional, which I road-tested with a 7-year-old, with flexible days that let you ski, hike, explore, or slow down depending on how everyone is feeling.

Traveling through the Balkans with my family felt like discovering one of Europe’s last truly authentic regions—where your money goes further and you’re not fighting crowds of selfie-taking tourists. What stood out most was the warmth of the people; everywhere we went, we felt genuinely welcomed, and our child was met with kindness, smiles, and little gestures that made a big difference. It’s a place that feels safe, grounded, and deeply human—despite of and not defined by their often dark history. I left especially connected to Sarajevo, with Mostar close behind, and I already know we’ll be back.

The Waldorf Astoria Washington DC is one of my favorite luxury hotels in the city because it is a historic former post office building that has been nicely refreshed with modern amenities. Conveniently located on Pennsylvania Avenue, it’s walkable to most of DC’s top attractions, from the National Mall to the Smithsonians—which is why I recommend this for families. I’ve toured and experienced the property firsthand, and it’s an easy recommendation for clients who want spacious, stylish accommodations right in the heart of the city.

Dupont Circle is one of my favorite DC neighborhoods because it’s walkable, full of great restaurants and energy. The Dupont Circle Hotel sits right at the center of the circle and delivers a polished, mid century modern property that feels central without ever feeling stuck in a tourist zone. I toured and experienced the property firsthand, and it’s an easy recommendation for clients who want stylish convenience in DC.

I chose Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg for a festive getaway with a friend, because it felt like the perfect destination to escape to from the holiday chaos. We were craving some downtime and knew that during the holiday season, Salamander offers an array of seasonal experiences in addition to their spa and equestrian offerings. I love the upscale country luxury equestrian vibe at Salamander and knew they would make the holiday season special for a quick girlfriends' getaway from the DC area.

I sailed on the Disney Treasure for a friends-and-family cruise during the festive season (November–December 2025), and it was such a relaxing and special trip. It feels similar to the Wish as a sister ship, but the Treasure's adventure-and-journeys theme gives the whole ship a different energy. The food and service were consistently great, and there was plenty for both kids and adults of all ages to enjoy on board. The experience is “Disney light” so it is a wonderful option even if you are not the biggest Disney fan.

I conducted a Fall Site Inspection at the Salamander Resort in Middleburg this month—I have always wanted to visit and was curious to see if their reputation for luxury, warmth, and a family-friendly (5 star!) luxury resort was true. Spoiler alert—it was. I was impressed by the warmth and welcome, and how darn happy the guests were. I saw families with kids of every age, and was impressed with the diversity of activities, from the renowned equestrian program, spa, pool set-up, and family-friendly adventures.

I recently spent time at the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, and honestly, there’s nothing else quite like it in this part of the city and it’s my top pick for families. Tucked right on Pier 1 in Brooklyn Bridge Park, it is a perfect balance of quiet luxury surrounded by greenery, waterfront paths, and the charm of Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO. It’s the only hotel in Brooklyn that truly feels like a five-star sanctuary, and you might even spot a celebrity (be cool!). If you value modern luxury and grounded, sustainable design convenient to Manhattan, this is the hotel for you.

I recommend the JW Marriott Reston Station in Reston, VA because it brings a true sense of luxury to the Reston–Dulles area—something the Reston area and Dulles corridor has been missing. Opened in September 2025 as part of Reston’s business and residential expansion, it is fresh and welcoming, with high ceilings, cozy nooks, and spaces perfect for a quick call or relaxing break. Perfectly positioned across from the Silver Line Metro, this property is ideal for both business travelers and weekend getaways.

As someone from the Hawaiian islands, I am often skeptical of how major hotel chains will make their hotels feel “Hawaiian,” as it can often be tacky or trying too hard. What struck me about the Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, is how deeply respectful it is of Hawaiian culture—nothing here is kitschy or performative. Every design choice, from the artwork, subtle use of Manoa Valley–inspired green tones, the welcome drink, and hourly snacks (that any island kid would recognize), feels intentional. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, is spacious and quietly luxurious, and it honors Hawai‘i without ever leaning on cliché—a rarity.

As part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection, the Royal Hawaiian is ideal for travelers who want a central Waikiki location but don’t want to sacrifice peace, history, or character. It’s not a big-box resort—it’s for clients who appreciate tradition and want to walk out their door and be steps from shopping and dining on Kalakaua Avenue and in the Royal Hawaiian shopping center, but also retreat to a quiet pink beachfront oasis. I recommend it for couples, honeymooners, and solo travelers looking for a serene stay at the pink Waikiki grand dame.

The Alohilani is ideal for clients who want to be in the heart of Waikiki, with the beach just steps away across Kalakaua Avenue and all the dining and shopping of Waikiki within easy reach. For travelers who are luxury-adjacent and value a clean, modern aesthetic along with an unobstructed view of the Waikiki shoreline, this property hits the sweet spot for unique amenities. Alohilani is chic and so centrally located that if you only have a short time on the island, you barely need to leave your hotel.

As someone who grew up in Honolulu, I can tell you that Kaimana (aka “Sans Souci”) beach is the best beach area on the mild Waikiki south shore, because the wave are gentle, the sand is plentiful, and it is not overrun by foot traffic. The adjacent Kaimana Beach Hotel is a charming older building with a well-maintained beach chic vibe. Kaimana’s price point and location on the “quiet end” of Waikiki means it attracts travelers who want to experience the laid-back Hawai'i, not the hustle and bustle of Waikiki. I recommend Kaimana for clients who wish to be beachfront and literally walk right outside to the sand.

The Kahala Resort is one of my childhood happy places—formerly Conrad Hilton’s first property, “The Kahala Hilton,” it is endlessly special to me. Our family celebrated special events on the beach or Plumeria House for special occasions, and my grandfather bartended at night. The Kahala exudes vintage Hawaiian style charm away from Waikiki’s bustling scene. Ideal for both couples and families, and popular with locals for a staycation, the Kahala neighborhood is a place to unwind without the crowds.

I love the Caribbean for so many reasons—the perpetually sunny weather, the fresh seafood you can find just about anywhere, and the incredibly warm, welcoming locals. It’s also one of the easiest places to reach from North America, with short nonstop flights from most major cities and no jet lag for kids. I especially love how the islands offer something for adults and kids. It is essential to me to select a reputable resort offering full family programming so everyone truly gets a vacation.

The Canada Grand Prix in Montreal is an exciting and accessible way for North American families to experience the thrill of Formula 1. While race weekend can be pricey, spending just two days in the city is the perfect way to enjoy the highlights without breaking the bank. Montreal’s excellent public transit makes getting to the track easy, even with little ones, and staying in the Old Port maximizes your time with walkable access to great food, green spaces, and the race itself. It’s just the right amount of time to take in the action, explore the charm of the city, and head home with unforgettable memories (and your sanity intact).

I highly recommend staying at Auberge du Vieux-Port when visiting Montreal, especially during a busy weekend like the Canada Grand Prix. Its prime location in the Old Port puts you within easy walking distance to excellent restaurants, green spaces, and convenient transit options like the river shuttle and metro. The hotel itself is charming, well-run, and versatile—perfect for couples, families, or a special occasion getaway. Plus, the on-site dining options are far better than the website or reviews let on!

Three days in Reykjavík is the perfect amount of time to experience the best of this charming, family-friendly city. Iceland is incredibly safe and welcoming, with a culture that naturally includes children in all aspects of daily life — from restaurants and shops to public spaces. You’ll find thoughtful touches like changing tables, playgrounds and kid-friendly facilities throughout the city, making it easy and enjoyable to explore with little ones. Having visited twice, I can confidently say Reykjavík makes for a stress-free and enriching getaway with kids, especially for families coming from North America.

Reykjavik — and Iceland — is a fantastic destination for family travel. The country is incredibly safe, with a warm and welcoming culture that embraces women and children as an integral part of daily life. You’ll find family-friendly amenities like changing tables and play areas every few blocks. Kids are genuinely welcomed in restaurants, shops and public spaces — not just tolerated. As someone who’s visited twice, I can’t recommend Reykjavik enough as an easy, enriching escape from North America with little ones in tow.

I highly recommend the Disney Wish for anyone young and young at heart, offering a fantastic blend of magic, adventure and top-tier amenities. This beautiful, new ship features the latest Marvel and Avengers experiences, making it perfect for fans of all ages. Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun or relaxing adult spaces, the Wish has it all, from immersive dining options to luxurious lounges. Plus, the food and service are a cut above the usual cruise offerings, providing an exceptional experience for both kids and adults.

San Juan, Puerto Rico, is special to me for its unique mix of history, culture and convenience. As a US territory, it’s an easy, safe getaway with no passport needed, yet it feels like stepping into another world. I love wandering the colorful streets of Old San Juan, soaking in the rich history and indulging in incredible food that blends Spanish, African and Taino flavors.

The Big Island of Hawai‘i is a truly unique destination, with its diverse climate zones ranging from lush rainforests to volcanic deserts. While the Hilo and Waimea (wet) sides hold a special place in my heart for their natural beauty, Kona’s sunny weather, beautiful beaches and well-developed infrastructure make it an ideal spot for families. Four days in Kona is the perfect amount of time to explore the area, offering just enough to see and do without feeling rushed. It’s the bare minimum I would recommend to get a good sense of the island, from stunning beaches to cultural experiences. Here’s my four day guide to make the most of your time in Kona with kids!

The Big Island of Hawai’i is unlike anywhere else, with its diverse climate zones ranging from lush rainforests to volcanic deserts. While the Hilo and Waimea (wet) sides hold a special place in my heart for their natural beauty, Kona’s sunny weather, gorgeous beaches and well-developed visitor infrastructure make it the ideal base for many families. I recently chose Kona for a family vacation, and it was the perfect spot to enjoy warm weather and easy access to everything we wanted to see and do. Here’s my guide to making the most of your time in Kona with kids!

As someone from Honolulu, it’s always special to bring my family back each year to reconnect with the island and experience its authentic charm. Beyond the famous Waikiki Beach, we love exploring places that truly reflect the heart of Oahu. From scenic hikes and hidden beaches to local restaurants that feel like home, I’m excited to share our favorite places with you, so you can create your own unforgettable memories in this sunny paradise.

Disney brings out the inner child in all of us. I am partial to Disney Cruises because it is a stress-free way for my family to relax with appropriate child and adult amenities, and with exceptional child care on board. I’ve previously sailed on the Disney Dream for a nine-night Mediterranean cruise, and booked a seven-night sailing closer to home on the Disney Fantasy for spring break in the Caribbean.

The Inn at Little Washington hotel and restaurant needs no introduction for those in the Washington, D.C. area or who follow Michelin Guide awards. The Inn offers a one-of-a-kind retreat that combines exceptional dining, luxurious accommodations and unparalleled hospitality in a beautiful and tranquil setting for celebrating a special occasion or memorable getaway. I have been privileged to dine here several times over the years, and Spring 2024 was my first weekend getaway at the Inn’s Parsonage lodging to celebrate an anniversary.

Las Vegas, Nevada is an iconic destination for fun in the desert sun, and you can dial it up or down as you wish. I planned a celebratory event at Resorts World Las Vegas where the group could relax and enjoy the classiest, best of Vegas — in proximity to the Strip but away from the crowds. The resort is made up of the Conrad, Hilton and Crockfords hotels, and is a very nice, classy resort that is just big enough without being too big or overwhelming. I would say the clientele was a mix of families, couples and some special event groups. It was on the chill side. Also, Resorts World has casinos but has many other amenities as well, so the casinos aren't the entire reason to stay there.

I am partial to Disney Cruises because it is a stress-free way for my family to relax with appropriate child and adult amenities, and with exceptional child care on board. This sailing was a seven-night Caribbean cruise on the Fantasy, with visits to Mexico, Grand Cayman, Jamaica and the private Disney island Castaway Cay — all in the Bahamas. This sailing was crowded given it was peak season — spring break — but delightful and I highly recommend it. Disney Cruise Lines is best suited for multi-generational families or extended families who require activity levels and accommodations for a variety of interests and activity levels onboard and in port.

I am partial to Disney Cruises because it is a stress-free way for my family to relax with appropriate child and adult amenities, and with exceptional child care on board. This sailing was a nine-night Caribbean cruise on the Dream in the Mediterranean from Barcelona, with ports of call in Italy and Greece, all ending in Rome. Disney is the best for multi-generational families and we were all very impressed with the overall experience.

Las Vegas, Nevada is an iconic destination for fun in the desert sun, and you can dial it up or down as you wish! In September of 2024, I stayed at and did a Site
Inspection while staying at the Wynn, Las Vegas. The Wynn and Encore (its hip younger sister) in Las Vegas redefine luxury, making them the ultimate choice for a truly unforgettable special occasion. I’m also obsessed with Delilah - their dinner service and show are glamorous and world-class.

Vieux (Old) Montreal is an utterly charming neighborhood on the water adjacent to the very modern downtown in Quebec, Canada. I've always adored Montreal because it is beautiful, safe, walkable and family-friendly. Montreal is literally just over the border and gives you the delightful feeling of being in France — without the jet lag.

Exploring Paris with kids in winter can be a magical experience, with numerous indoor and outdoor activities to keep the little ones entertained. Paris transforms into an enchanting winter wonderland during the holiday season, with festive decorations, Christmas markets and seasonal events scattered throughout the city. I prefer Paris in winter because there are fewer crowds which makes it easier and more relaxing to navigate the city with kids. Winter is a great time to take advantage of lower rates for hotels, saving money on accommodation expenses.

Milan holds a special place in my heart for its vibrant blend of history, culture and contemporary flair. The city's iconic landmarks, like the Duomo di Milano and La Scala Opera House, evoke a sense of awe and wonder every time I visit. Additionally, Milan's dynamic fashion and design scene, coupled with its delectable cuisine and bustling atmosphere, never fail to captivate me, making each trip a memorable experience at any time of year. This three-day itinerary offers a balance of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, culinary delights and a delightful day trip to Lake Como.

Families with young children should consider visiting Milan, Italy, for its perfect blend of culture, history and family-friendly attractions. From iconic landmarks like the Duomo di Milano and Sforza Castle to interactive museums such as the Museo della Bambini and MUBA, Milan offers a wealth of enriching experiences for children of all ages. My family loved the convenient transportation options, public parks and welcoming atmosphere.

Paris in the fall is truly enchanting, with its picturesque parks aglow in warm, vibrant hues that can uplift any mood. Visiting during this season means avoiding the summer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s wonders. Known as the City of Love, Paris also offers families a wealth of educational and cultural experiences for kiddos, ensuring a memorable and eye-opening trip for all. I am personally a fan of Paris in fall and winter — there are fewer lines to dine at my favorite eateries!

Lyon, often referred to as Little Paris, is a captivating city nestled in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. This charming destination blends the old and new in perfect harmony, creating a magical atmosphere. While many consider Paris the foodie capital of France, Lyon truly holds that title with its renowned gastronomy and exquisite cuisine. Beyond its culinary delights, I think Lyon is also fantastic for family travel, offering a plethora of exciting attractions and activities for kids to explore.

As an aficionado of luxury travel and a connoisseur of European charm, these day trips from Paris hold a special place in my heart. Each destination offers a unique blend of history, culture and gastronomy, providing an enriching experience for every traveler. From the regal splendor of Versailles to the quaint charms of Lille, these day trips promise unforgettable memories and captivating adventures.

Las Vegas, Nevada, is an iconic destination for fun in the sun, and you can dial it up or down as you wish! I have eaten, played and partied my way through Las Vegas, and I love that you can find or do anything your heart desires here. This itinerary is specially designed for time-poor gals who want to reconnect with their besties — in a short timeframe — and be relaxed and enjoy the classiest and best of Vegas while doing so.

Honolulu, Hawai'i, is an incredibly safe and special option to spend some quiet, pre-baby time with your partner without having to whip out your passport. I highly recommend it as a babymoon location because it is not too far from the continental U.S., has great infrastructure (if you are concerned about health care options), variety of foods to meet any craving, and perfect weather year-round. Oahu is the perfect place because you can dial up your vacation if you feel like an adventure, or chill out if you just want to bum on the beach.

Honolulu, Hawai'i, is a special destination. There is no doubt that it's a top spot in the United States for beaches and fun in the sun. Honolulu is more than just Waikiki beach. It's a culturally diverse region of the island of Oahu. You will hear many languages such as Japanese, Chinese, Tagalog, Hawaiian and more. Honolulu is incredibly safe and welcoming and has so many non-touristy options for kid-centric activities, dining and hotels. I grew up in Honolulu, so it's always been a special place for me, and I love bringing my young family back to experience the island like a local.

Rome is such a special place, I return here time and again for another dose of its eternal charm. Each time, I feel fortunate to revisit my favorite locations and fountains, discover new — or ancient — treasures and miss it as soon as I leave. Rome is a compact city that is charming and beautiful year-round, and a lovely place to bring kids for a slow-travel long weekend.

Washington is beautiful at any time of the year, but it really shines in July. Seattle summers are gorgeous but it always feels like a magical combination of perfect weather in July — not too hot, not too cold and rarely rainy. I’ve always loved Seattle because it is a welcoming "Emerald City" surrounded by views of water and mountains, which I find soothing. The diverse food and cultural options are also unparalleled, not to mention the greater Seattle region is easy to get around by ferry, bike, car, train or seaplane.

Sicily is a favorite destination of mine because it combines the best of Italy with a more relaxed atmosphere. The island offers all the highlights of the mainland, including stunning ruins, delicious cuisine, breathtaking views and beautiful beaches. What sets Sicily apart is the laid-back vibe and the unique culture of the Sicilian people, making every visit both enriching and rejuvenating. Whether exploring ancient sites or savoring local dishes, Sicily provides an unforgettable experience steeped in history and tradition.

Visiting Midtown Manhattan in the fall with kids is a magical experience. The crisp air and vibrant autumn colors make walking through iconic spots like Central Park or Bryant Park a treat, where kids can enjoy seasonal activities like ice skating as the rink opens in Rockefeller Center. Midtown's famous attractions like the Empire State Building and Times Square are less crowded, allowing families to explore more comfortably.

Visiting Midtown Manhattan for a long fall weekend with kids is a magical experience. The crisp air and vibrant autumn colors make walking through iconic spots like Central Park or Bryant Park a treat, where kids can enjoy seasonal activities like ice skating as the rink opens in Rockefeller Center. Midtown's famous attractions like the Empire State Building and Times Square are less crowded, allowing families to explore more comfortably.