Nancy Pappas

La Paz, located along the calm shores of the Sea of Cortez, offers a more relaxed and authentic experience compared to the busy atmosphere of Cabo. The area is home to a large number of marine mammals and birds, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Taking a boat ride to explore nearby islands and quiet southern coves is a must.

I’ve called beautiful Manhattan Beach home for over 30 years, raising my three children in this charming coastal town. It’s not only a wonderful place to live but also an ideal destination for travelers exploring Los Angeles, conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from LAX.

Manhattan Beach is a serene and picturesque beach community. Take a leisurely bike ride along the Strand, the beachfront promenade, where you can pause to watch exciting volleyball tournaments or simply enjoy the sight of dolphins and surfers riding the waves.

Kea Island is just an hour’s ferry from Athens, is a quiet Cycladic gem known for its unspoiled charm and elegant simplicity. Wander through stone-paved paths in Ioulida, swim in crystal-clear waters at Koundouros, and hike ancient trails dotted with oak trees and ruins. The island has a relaxed, authentic vibe—less touristy than its neighbors but rich in history and natural beauty. It’s ideal for travelers seeking serenity, great food, and low-key luxury.

I live in Manhattan Beach, next to Hermosa Beach and love the charming, small beach town that offers a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. Its stunning beach, iconic pier and scenic Strand make it a perfect destination for outdoor activities, from surfing to biking. Hermosa provides a blend of small-town charm and beachside energy. This makes it an ideal spot for both people looking for a staycation or international visitors to unwind and enjoy the coastal lifestyle.

San Francisco is a city of stunning views, layered history, and creative energy. Every neighborhood feels like its own world. Its food scene is unmatched, from Michelin-starred restaurants to beloved pastries and dim sum spots. For those who’ve lived there, returning always feels like reconnecting with a place that’s both familiar and new.

From my visit to Taipei in April 2025, I discovered that the city’s charm lives in its alleyways—those narrow, winding lanes, where hip bars glow behind hidden doors, third-wave coffee shops hum with conversation, and curated boutiques share space with centuries-old Chinese medicine shops steeped in herbal aromas. It’s this eclectic mix of trend and tradition that makes Taipei feel like a vibrant and modern city.

Singapore is a vibrant city where modern skyscrapers meet rich cultural history. With its clean streets, stunning attractions like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay, and a food scene that mixes flavors from all over Asia, it’s a perfect blend of old and new. Whether you’re shopping, exploring neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little India, or relaxing in lush parks, Singapore offers something for everyone. Singapore impressed me with its exceptional public spaces and efficient systems. The beautifully renovated streets, underground air-conditioned walkways, and impressive public housing show the country’s commitment to creating a livable environment. The government runs the country smoothly—there are no traffic jams, and public transportation (trains, buses) is cheap, clean, and on time. Grab rides are affordable. I was amazed by the orderliness of society, with no visible homelessness or poverty.

Indonesia is a country of incredible diversity, where each island offers its own unique magic. A journey through Indonesia might include snorkeling with vibrant marine life in the Gili Islands, trekking through the highland villages of Flores to experience traditional mountain culture, and visiting the awe-inspiring Komodo Islands to see the legendary Komodo dragons and untouched pink-sand beaches. In Bali, days can be spent practicing yoga in serene jungle valleys, exploring sacred temples, or chasing waterfalls tucked into lush rice terraces. What makes Indonesia truly special is the seamless blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and warm, welcoming people across every destination.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s dynamic capital city, offers a striking contrast of old and new, where soaring skyscrapers stand beside historic mosques and traditional architecture. It’s a vibrant, multicultural hub that reflects Malaysia’s diverse identity—blending Malay, Chinese, Indian, and international influences into every aspect of daily life, from cuisine to festivals. For travelers, Kuala Lumpur offers the perfect entry point to Malaysia: cosmopolitan yet rooted in tradition, fast-paced but welcoming, and full of sights, sounds, and flavors waiting to be discovered.

George Town, the capital of Penang in Malaysia, is a city that seamlessly blends rich cultural heritage with modern-day charm. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a captivating glimpse into Malaysia’s colonial past, with well-preserved architecture, vibrant street art, and a multi-ethnic history shaped by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences.

One of the most unique aspects of George Town is its pace—life moves slowly here, especially when you’re driving.

Truckee is a beautiful small town located in the Sierras with countless outdoor recreational activities available to everyone. If you love skiing, hiking, biking, tennis or just enjoying scenic beauty, it might be the place for you. At 6000 feet, this little town nestled within the Sierra Nevada mountain range has been our family's winter home for the past 15 years. Truckee’s own Donner Lake is both beautiful and accessible, while Lake Tahoe is only 15 miles away. The town's small-town charm and its location in the Sierra Nevada make it a perfect year-round destination.

In 2024, Halloween fell on a Thursday, coinciding with the weekly Art Walk. The result? A buzzing, colorful town filled with creativity and celebration. Locals and visitors embraced the festive spirit with elaborate costumes, lively music and art displays, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

But the magic didn’t end with Halloween. Día de los Muertos followed, honoring loved ones with beautiful altars, marigold-strewn streets and heartfelt celebrations. If you ever have the chance to visit during this time, it’s truly something special.

Often misunderstood as just a gritty urban hub, Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) is a vibrant, diverse neighborhood filled with hidden gems. Whether you're a foodie, a shopper or a culture enthusiast, there's something for everyone.

Lake Tahoe holds a special place in my heart because it’s been the backdrop of cherished family memories for over 40 years. Our family of five has spent countless summers and winters in our vacation home on the beautiful West Shore, in the charming community of Homewood, California. From hiking scenic trails, skiing the mountain trail to relaxing on sandy beaches, Tahoe offers a perfect mix of adventure and serenity. It’s more than just a destination — it’s a great place where bonds grow stronger.