Megan Stout

Seoul is a city of contrasts—ancient temples nestled among sleek skyscrapers and vibrant K-culture thriving alongside deep-rooted tradition. I love the blend of heritage and modernity—the old and new flow seamlessly through the city and shape its unique energy.

Coworth Park—just 20 minutes from Heathrow and less than an hour from London—embodies country refinement. The expansive grounds are perfectly manicured yet still invite guests to wander. The rooms are sumptuous without being stuffy, and the food is consistently on point. But most importantly—and this is truly a rare find—the staff at Coworth Park are always one step ahead. You’re greeted by name the moment you arrive. Your coffee is refilled almost before you realize you need it. A golf cart appears just as you’re thinking a ride might be nice. (I’m fairly certain the sun even lingers a little longer as it sets—just to give you a few extra moments in the golden hour. I don’t think the staff could arrange that, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they did.) And yet, none of it feels staged or forced. Everything flows with a quiet grace that’s hard to find—and even harder to forget. (Should you need more convincing, note that the royals love Coworth Park themselves. It is a destination that is truly fit for a king).

Just an hour and a half from central London by train or two hours by car, The Newt is worlds apart from the bustle of the city and a destination all its own. The resort touts endless activities, but it’s hard to fathom the endless opportunities until you’ve visited the property. Without exception, everything at this property has been done with obvious care, attention to detail, and held to the highest standards—but despite the sophistication, it still manages to offer guests a laidback vibe and freedom to explore. Enjoy an apple off the tree in the orchard, meander with baby sheep through the meadows, stumble upon the crystal encrusted grotto, and then stop by one of the delightfully curated gathering spaces for a complimentary snack or drink. There’s a whimsical, lighthearted spirit here—an invitation to relax, explore, and reconnect. It feels like a home away from home—if home were an impeccably styled Georgian manor wrapped in serenity and surprise.

Southern Maine is a captivating destination offering a mix of natural beauty, luxury and rich experiences. Guests can relax in oceanfront accommodations at the stunning Cliff House Maine, complete with sweeping views of the Atlantic and access to a world-class spa. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the region's picturesque coastline. This includes hiking the Marginal Way or visiting the Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge, while families can enjoy local attractions like the Children's Museum. With a vibrant food scene featuring farm-to-table restaurants and cozy, coastal eateries, Southern Maine is the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

In February 2024, I did a site inspection while staying at the whimsical Wilder Townhouse in Dublin’s city center. This boutique property is nestled just a few blocks south of St. Stephen’s Green making it the perfect base for exploring the vibrant city of Dublin.

in February 2024, I was lucky enough to stay at Dromoland Castle with a friend. While I had high expectations for this 500-acre luxury property, I was amazed at how far above and beyond the team at Dromoland went to make our time memorable. The service highlights might include the nightly turn down service, the elaborate and delicious breakfast (both a buffet and hot dishes were available) and the complimentary shuttle that seemed to appear whenever we might need it.

The quality of the service was matched only by the property itself. The rooms were luxuriously appointed, the common areas were lavish but welcoming and the original grandeur of the castle was beautifully upheld.

It’s easy to dismiss the Keys as just another part of Florida, but they have a colorful, laid-back vibe all their own and a saltwater breeze that helps even the busiest people slow down. On the islands, flip flops are acceptable everywhere, your faded t-shirt is just perfect and clocks are more of an option than a requirement. There’s plenty to explore, but don’t forget to enjoy a hammock under a palm tree, too.