Marissa Crawford

Just outside Phoenix, The Wigwam offers a more relaxed and understated take on Arizona luxury. While Scottsdale often gets the spotlight, this historic West Valley resort delivers spacious accommodations, golf, pools, and resort amenities with exceptional value. Having stayed here several times while visiting family in the area, it’s become one of my favorite recommendations for travelers looking for a quieter luxury escape. The blend of classic desert charm and modern comfort makes it an easy choice for both weekend getaways and extended stays.

Curated for travelers seeking both luxury and escape, my stay at the Conrad Orlando delivered an elevated resort experience from start to finish. The property blends sophisticated design with a serene atmosphere, creating a true retreat. From the outstanding service to the abundance of activities and the stunning lagoon setting, every detail felt intentionally crafted for relaxation and connection. What stood out most to me were the peaceful, beautifully appointed rooms—a calm sanctuary after days spent enjoying the resort’s vibrant energy or the Orlando parks. Conrad Orlando is the kind of destination that makes you want to slow down, settle in, and savor every moment.

As I am a native Oklahoman, the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon is deeply personal to me. More than just a race, the weekend is a moving tribute to resilience, community, and remembrance, with emotional moments woven throughout the course. The crowd support is unlike anywhere else—spectators show up in full force with unmatched warmth and energy. It’s a powerful experience that leaves both visitors and locals with a deeper connection to Oklahoma City and its story.

On a recent site visit, I was impressed by the refined five-star atmosphere at the Salamander DC, a luxury urban resort located in Washington, DC. The hotel blends elegance, comfort, and convenience into its beautifully updated interiors, elevated dining, and wellness-focused guest experience, making it an excellent option for both leisure and corporate travelers.

For almost a decade, we’ve made an annual mid-March trip to cheer on the Washington Nationals while enjoying sunny skies and warm breezes. Set along South Florida’s sun-drenched Atlantic coast—from the relaxed elegance of West Palm Beach to the vibrant energy of Fort Lauderdale—this guide is designed to help you turn a few baseball games into a fully curated escape with thoughtfully selected restaurants, stylish places to stay, and local experiences. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or planning a memorable family trip, consider this your invitation to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy spring training in true Florida style.

This curated guide to Santa Fe is designed to immerse you in the experiences that make the city feel creative and deeply rooted in culture. From hands-on moments like a private glass-blowing class to meeting Native American artists, each activity invites you to connect with the region in a meaningful way. You’ll wander world-class galleries along Canyon Road, explore centuries of history through adobe churches and architecture, and venture beyond the city to discover the landscapes and stories of Los Alamos and Bandelier National Monument. Blending art, history, cuisine, and unforgettable scenery, this guide helps you experience Santa Fe with intention, curiosity, and a sense of wonder.

Tucked along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sanibel and Captiva offer a rare blend of natural beauty and understated luxury that makes it easy to slow down. These sister islands have become some of our favorite places to unwind. This guide is a curated collection of experiences, places, and little luxuries that make Sanibel and Captiva the perfect getaway—equal parts coastal elegance, quiet charm, and effortless escape.

Savannah is a city we return to again and again, drawn by its layered history, quiet beauty, and the way life unfolds slowly beneath the Spanish moss. Shaped by our own repeated visits, this guide is a curated invitation to experience Savannah through its historic streets, graceful architecture, and enduring traditions. Designed for travelers who value heritage, culture, and thoughtful exploration, this guide offers a refined and personal way to experience the city’s timeless elegance.

Hilton Head Island is the kind of place that rewards slowing down—an island shaped by deep Lowcountry history, layered cultures, and a long relationship with the sea. What began as Gullah Geechee land and later a quiet coastal retreat has evolved into a destination where preserved nature, thoughtful design, and understated luxury coexist. After spending several months here, my husband and I came to know Hilton Head beyond the highlights. This guide brings together our favorite things to do, places to eat and drink, and pockets of history that give the island its soul—meant for couples who appreciate beautiful settings, meaningful stories, and the pleasure of doing things slowly.

The Galapagos Islands are truly one of the spots in the world that cannot be explained adequately; you must experience them for yourself. Sailing on Celebrity Cruises’ Flora ship is the ultimate way to immerse yourself in the Galapagos. We cruised on Flora in December 2025, and thoroughly enjoyed the archipelago, but what sets the trip apart was the top-notch personalized service provided onboard, a true luxury experience.

Northern Virginia has a rich history of wine production and lends itself easily to a quick weekend getaway. The scenic vineyards are often small, family-run, and personal. Living in Virginia, taking a day—or several—to explore the wineries is one of my favorite things to do.

When our jobs became mandatory telework in 2020, my husband and I decided to live in Key West for a month. We fell in love with the island and one month became two months, which quickly became several months. We still haven’t tired of the island and continue to spend time in Key West. As a part-time conch, here are my recommendations for this piece of heaven.