Sarah Shafer Hazim

Asheville has a rare feeling of being both energizing and grounding at the same time. Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s incredibly dog-friendly, with trailheads, patios, breweries, and boutique hotels that genuinely welcome pups. I love how easy it is to balance outdoor adventure with great food, art, and a laid-back creative vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can hike in the morning, explore downtown in the afternoon, and end the day with your dog by your side.

Amsterdam is special because it’s a city that’s easy to settle into from the moment you arrive. Everything feels approachable, from the layout of the neighborhoods to the pace of daily life. It’s a great place to explore without a strict plan and still feel like you’re getting a real sense of the city. Each visit feels familiar, comfortable, and fresh at the same time.

Italy has a way of making history feel alive, where every city tells its story through art, architecture, and everyday life. Rome, Florence, and Venice together offer the perfect mix of ancient sights, Renaissance beauty, and romantic charm without feeling overwhelming. What makes this itinerary special to me is how naturally it balances must-see landmarks with relaxed moments like long meals and scenic walks. It’s a trip that feels easy, memorable, and never rushed.

Palm Springs is special because it perfectly balances relaxed desert calm with effortless bachelorette energy. The retro hotels, sun-soaked pools, and mid-century glamour create a playful, stylish setting that feels made for celebrating with your closest friends. It’s the kind of place where daytime lounging turns into golden-hour cocktails and laughter, making every moment feel fun, carefree, and memorable.

Samos feels like the Greece many travelers hope to find but rarely do. It’s an island where pine-covered mountains tumble into the sea, villages still move at a human pace, and the experience feels genuine rather than curated for crowds. I love Samos for its quiet beauty, incredible food, and the way it invites you to slow down and actually live the island, not just visit it. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.

New York City is a destination like no other, where every street corner feels alive with history, culture, and energy. From the iconic skyline and Central Park to the vibrant neighborhoods of SoHo and the Upper East Side, the city offers a unique mix of excitement and charm. Experiencing New Year’s Eve here captures the magic and communal celebration that only NYC can offer. For me, the city represents endless possibilities, unforgettable memories, and a sense of being at the heart of the world.

Porto holds a rare balance of history, beauty, and authenticity that feels increasingly hard to find. From its cobblestone streets and tiled facades to the quiet moments along the Douro River, the city invites you to slow down and truly take it all in. What I love most is how Porto feels effortlessly lived-in rather than curated, with incredible food, wine, and views woven naturally into everyday life. It is a place that stays with you long after you leave, calling you back for just one more sunset by the river.