Whitney Ellis

Verona is a city that blends history, romance, and culture effortlessly. As a travel advisor, I love recommending it to clients exploring Northern Italy because it offers something truly authentic and less crowded than nearby Venice or Milan. From ancient Roman architecture to world-class wine and beautiful boutique hotels, Verona is ideal for a one- or two-night stay. It’s a destination that feels both timeless and refreshingly local.

Portugal is a place that engages every sense and rewards curiosity at every turn. From Lisbon’s lively markets to Porto’s riverfront cellars and the quiet beauty of the Douro Valley, food and wine are at the heart of daily life. Meals are unhurried, made to be shared, and rooted in a deep respect for local ingredients and tradition. This itinerary captures that spirit, inviting travelers to taste, explore, and experience Portugal through its most authentic flavors.

When I visited Sifnos, it was made clear to me that the island prides itself on being a Greek island that is a foodie destination. There is no airport, so the only way there is by ferry or private boat or helicopter. Because of that, the island remains a bit sleepier than it’s more popular siblings and retains it’s charm. After visiting the more popular islands in Greece, I found Sifnos to be the perfect speed for the end of my trip. Plenty of time to relax and enjoy scenery without bumping into lots of people.

Mendoza, Argentina for its world-renowned wineries, especially for Malbec lovers, offering stunning vineyard tours against the backdrop of the Andes Mountains. Beyond wine, Mendoza is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, biking and white-water rafting. Mendoza is a destination where nature, adventure and wine culture seamlessly come together.

London, England, is a huge city with so much to do. Almost too much to do. Sometimes we need to take a step back and slow down. While London is such an amazing city packed with history, museums, palaces, royalty, shopping and all kinds of tourist attractions, we are going to take a moment to appreciate lazier days. Reconnect with those close to you, or spend some time alone. Those are important days too.

Scotland is a golfer's paradise. The birthplace of golf boasts over 550 courses amid breathtaking landscapes. Scottish courses challenge players with natural elements and unpredictable weather. Think of it as a chance to enhance your skills! Windswept links, stunning coastlines and a ruch golfing culture makes it the perfect place to plan your next golf trip. You may even find that there is equal enthusiasm for the 19th hole! In THE home of golf, we will review four different itinerary options that allow you to maximize your golf time, minimizing travel time.

If you're looking for a touch of luxury in Colombia, we can find it! Bogota and Medellin are the places to be. Bogota is all about history and art, with fancy hotels and delicious food. In Medellin, you'll find a mix of modern vibes and culture, plus some great places to stay with stunning city views. For something a little more authentic and out of the hustle of a big city, a visit to a coffee farm may be the place you never knew you needed to visit.

Consider Greece as your Mediterranean destination for September! My favorite time to travel to Europe, in general, is September. Kids are back in school, making September the best time for couples, solo travelers or groups of friends to vacation. The weather during this time is delightful, with warm temperatures perfect for exploring historical landmarks and dipping in the stunning blue sea.
Visiting Greece in September means avoiding the high peak of the summer tourist season, which is fantastic for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. You'll have a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture without feeling overwhelmed by large crowds.

Croatia is the land of 1000 islands. Over 1100, actually. Being from California, I love a good coastline. Until I arrived in Croatia for the first time, I had no idea how pristine the water was, and there is a beautiful view in any direction you look. Dubrovnik is a great area to explore, but also a great spot to stay for other day trips.

Because Sintra is only about a 30 minute drive from the capital of Portugal, Lisbon, many people make it a day trip. It's a fun place to explore for anyone. Of course, you can pretend you are royalty for the day as there are castles and palaces, but the nature alone is impressive. Slow down and get to know Sintra.

Call it the Eternal City or the city of love. Rome is a place for couples, friends, solo travel. Even in a large city, there is so much history and the people are so friendly. Plus, the wine and food will keep you coming back. Get good sleep, get up and put on some comfortable shoes. There will be a lot of walking involved.