Melissa Friedman-Levine

Surf Synergy in Jaco, Costa Rica, is one of those rare destinations that meets you exactly where you are and sends you home completely transformed. As someone who had never surfed and genuinely hates cold water, I came back obsessed. The warm Pacific waves, one-on-one coaching, daily yoga, incredible farm-to-table food, and included bodywork create an all-inclusive week that is equally perfect for solo travelers, friend groups, and families. This is not just a vacation—it is a reset for your body, your mind, and, honestly, your whole outlook.

There are destinations you visit for the beauty, the activities, the bucket list moment. And then there are destinations that change you. Bhutan is the latter.

Rwanda is really a country that will just amaze a person on so many levels. To think that less than 30 years ago the country was so torn apart and a place you would never consider visiting because of civil unrest is just astonishing. As a traveler who really loves to learn about the people and culture of a destination, my 24 hours in Kigali were just as special to me from a cultural aspect as my three days up in Volcanoes National Park for our gorilla trekking. This is a bucket-list destination that will leave your heart full.

Utah and its national parks make for an incredible landscape filled with adventure. It is the the perfect escape for a girlfriend getaway, especially when you combine Zion National Park with Amangiri spa and resort. We enjoyed a little glamping at Autocamp Zion with a lot of luxury at Amangiri and threw in some Vegas because why not!

Iceland is an easy flight from the east coast of the US and offers fun whether it’s a couples weekend or a girl trip. Twice I have chased the northern lights in wintertime and would go back again to this extraordinary country filled with magical vistas, incredible food and either over the top relaxation at The Retreat spa or an adventure filled with glacier hikes, cavern exploration and black sand beaches.

Cape Town is an incredible destination for culture, dining and adventure. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Cape Town offers it all. The waterfront area has beautiful views, walkable areas, fun shopping and both fine dining as well as lively cafes. The plethora of hotels allows one to stay right near the waterfront, at a beach resort or tucked away up from the chaos but under a 5-minute drive to the touristy areas. Once you have your fill of the downtown area, you can easily transfer to the wine country for more breathtaking views, culinary delights and artisan shops. If you fancy wildlife and easy adventure, head to Grootbos Private Nature Reserve for whales, sharks, hiking and of course, more culinary masterpieces. I was so fortunate to have the chance to enjoy the area. Here is my recommended Cape Town Travel Itinerary.

Big Sky Montana is both a summer and winter wonderland. Whether you are an avid skier or love fly fishing, the area has something for everyone. And I promise you will leave your heart in Montana for the beautiful landscapes, animals, activities and people. As a home owner in this paradise, I have had the last 15 years to explore my love of the area and can guide you to your perfect holiday here.

I had the privilege to tour Scotland with our on-ground destination team to better create amazing trips for YOU! I will be honest, I have always heard Scotland was amazing but it was never really on my bucket list. IT NEEDS TO BE ON YOUR BUCKET LIST! Scotland is beautiful, fun, the people are kind and the trip will create lasting memories. There is so much to do and see. I can not wait to bring my husband back!