Payton Brown

Seattle left a strong impression on us after a full week of exploring. We spent our days enjoying the food scene, visiting Pike Place, and finding local spots that made the city feel warm and approachable. A ferry ride to Bainbridge Island became one of the highlights. It was like discovering a quieter, charming town tucked just across the water. The mix of city energy and peaceful escapes made the trip feel well-balanced and memorable. It’s the kind of destination that’s easy to recommend to anyone planning a visit.

What I appreciate about Houston is how it reveals itself in small, meaningful ways. It might be the sound of a live band drifting from a tucked-away venue, the unexpected mix of cuisines on a single block, or the calm you feel walking through a museum garden. The city has a way of combining culture, creativity, and comfort that makes you want to linger. For me, Houston is a place that keeps inviting you to explore a little more each time. Houston is one of the few cities where every visit feels like stepping into a different version of the same place.

Austin has been one of my favorite destinations to return to because it offers such a dynamic blend of culture and creativity. Every visit reminds me why the city is known for its world-class music and comedy scene, innovative food concepts, and access to exceptional wine and local experiences. It’s a destination that feels both energizing and welcoming, making it ideal for travelers and groups. Curating this guide allows me to highlight the quality, character, and memorable moments that make Austin a standout choice for so many different types of trips.

Denver is a city that truly has it all — rich history, a thriving cultural scene, proximity to the outdoors and fantastic dining. Whether you’re exploring the urban attractions like Union Station or heading out to natural wonders like Red Rocks, the Mile High City offers an array of experiences to suit any traveler. I highly recommend this destination for anyone seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation and culture.

As someone who loves travel and cruising, sailing with Virgin Voyages was such an exciting and different experience! Starting in Miami, a city bursting with culture, art and beach vibes, this cruise stands out because of its amazing stops in Bimini, Puerto Plata and Grand Turk. Each destination offers access to exclusive (to Virgin Voyage) excursions that offer relaxation, adventure and local charm — ideal for anyone wanting a bit of everything. Before setting sail, Miami’s got its own magic that’s worth exploring. Whether you're strolling the art deco streets of South Beach or grabbing a bite in the trendy Wynwood district, spending a day or two here really sets the mood for your vacation. In this guide, I’ll share some top picks for what to do, where to eat and where to stay so you can enjoy your time in Miami before hopping aboard the cruise ship.

New Orleans is a great place to visit to experience a fun, vibrant, yet charming city. I recently spent my time out on the historic streets enjoying the jazz music, tried the diverse Creole and Cajun food and soaked in the city's unique culture. From the bustling French Quarter to the calm Mississippi River, this trip is a great way to experience the essence of New Orleans. Plus, you have to try the famous beignets at Cafe Du Monde.

Louisville, Kentucky, is a destination that welcomes both diversity and culture and carries a wealth of history. Historic downtown is nestled beside the Ohio River and is famously known for horse racing competitions at Churchill Downs. Louisville has opportunities to immerse yourself in baseball memorabilia, a rich bourbon heritage and arts districts that bustle with art, music and culinary delights. The atmosphere is enriching and locals are welcoming, making travel here a pleasant experience for visitors.

Las Vegas is well known around the globe for its four-mile strip that shines bright with neon lights and houses casinos, shows, concerts and sporting events. Vegas is a catch all-resort town that has an excursion for everyone. It is usually an unforgettable experience. Varying opportunities will allow you to fine dine, explore the nearby Grand Canyon or even zip line down Fremont Street. Whatever you decide, make sure to schedule a show or two during your visit.

Chicago is a large metropolis located in the Mid-West of the United States that hosts a vast opportunity to learn about history or immerse yourself with art. Chicago developed into the expansive city that we know today and is popular for its walkability and convenient transit options to tour is town. You can spend time on the river walks surrounded by aesthetically designed skyscrapers, tour the streets and view wonderfully crafted artistry, or connect with locals over delicious deep-dish pizza.

Asheville is a known gem in the Blue Ridge Mountain area of the Southeast. It has charm, natural beauty, and superb dining. Many visitors, including myself, are drawn towards this city because of the downtown area that offers boutique shopping, electric neighborhoods, and its beer town atmosphere. Nestled within its borders is also the infamous Biltmore Estate that offers a fantastic view of the mountain landscape where you can get away and relax.

Nashville is a bustling and vibrant city full of energy. Its unique blend of music, history and nightlife brings quite the excitement to any trip planned here. You can find yourself browsing the boutiques at the Gulch, enjoying a nice cocktail on a nearby rooftop, to bouncing around Broadway. This destination captures the essence of the south and a modern vibrancy.