Wieteke Maris

I recently did a quick California road trip with a friend, with a tiny bit of work mixed in, which is basically my favorite way to travel. Four days, three completely different worlds: Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, and Santa Monica. Short drives, big scenery shifts, and that rare feeling of time moving fast and slow at once. The whole trip was a perfect mix of low-key and polished: a couple of beautiful stays, great meals, and plenty of room for detours.

Why I finally "get" Turks: A few days in Turks and Caicos was all it took for me to finally understand the obsession. I was recently invited down by Rock House, and honestly, it changed my perspective on the island. Usually, people think of Provo as just one long beach (Grace Bay), but staying on the north coast’s limestone cliffs feels more like the Amalfi Coast than the typical Caribbean. The highlight for me wasn’t just the view—it was the water. We took a boat out to explore the tiny, uninhabited islands that most people never see. I spent the afternoon snorkeling with stingrays that were so chill they felt like paid actors, then grabbed lunch at Noah’s Ark, a floating beach bar you can only get to by boat. (Get the lobster. Trust me.) At Rock House, I stayed in one of the private homes with its own plunge pool. It’s the kind of place where you wake up, see that unreal turquoise water, and realize you haven’t checked your phone in three hours. Even the “wellness” stuff felt different here. I’m not a yoga person, at all, but doing a session on the dock with a local pelican watching from a nearby post? That, I can get behind.

While Santorini and Mykonos have their iconic sunsets and Instagram-perfect spots, Naxos is where you’ll find the true heart of the Cyclades. It is unfiltered, a lot less crowded and full of understated charm. This isn’t just another typical Greek getaway (though I’m all for the clichés — whitewashed villages, fresh feta and ouzo). Naxos is different. It’s a vibrant mix of history, culture and beautiful landscapes that pulls you in without the need for the flashy lights of its more popular neighbors. Here, you can find ancient ruins next to bustling villages, serene beaches and even TikTok-famous cliff-jumping spots that we discovered thanks to my adventurous kids.

Every summer, my sons and I embark on our journey from Brooklyn to Amsterdam to visit family. However, last summer, we decided to spice things up with a stopover in Iceland. What began as a simple detour quickly transformed into an unexpectedly captivating mini road trip through the land of fire and ice. Iceland took my breath away with its distinctive landscapes and overwhelming nature. It is one of the most unique places I have visited, especially nature-wise. Iceland is a fabulous trip all on its own or the perfect prelude to a longer European vacation.

Vibrant cities, serene deserts and timeless charm.

Morocco holds a special place in my heart. From my early days as a backpacker exploring its vibrant streets to luxurious FAM trips and even leading small art-focused group tours, I’ve experienced this enchanting country in all its forms. Whether you’re seeking culture, adventure or pure relaxation, Morocco offers it all. And with United Airlines now offering non-stop flights from New Jersey to Marrakech, getting there has never been easier. For East Coasters, it’s officially within weekend getaway territory — and trust me, you’ll want to go.

Between luxe hotel stays, the sensory overload of the souks and the breathtaking Atlas Mountains, Morocco is calling. Let me help you answer.

The Equinox Hotel is a luxury urban oasis. This was a wintery romantic staycation for us and it was perfect. We loved the serene vibe, the focus on wellness and the unique location in Hudson Yards. We will absolutely return and highly recommend it to romantics, solo travelers, staycationers and business travelers.

My ideal girls trip combines exploration with relaxation, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. We spent two days immersed in the culture of historic Valladolid before escaping to Isla Holbox for four days of pristine beaches and vibrant local culture. Perfection!

Nestled in the heart of the Riviera Maya, Chablé Maroma is a luxurious sanctuary that seamlessly blends natural beauty with unparalleled comfort. My husband and I had the pleasure of spending five days at this breathtaking resort in January, escaping the freezing cold of New York City for a magical experience. Here’s an account of our stay, which I hope will inspire and guide future travelers.

Get ready to join me on a magical, art-inspired journey through the heart of France. This itinerary, born from my adventures guiding fellow art enthusiasts, is a fusion of the sophisticated art scenes of Paris and the artistic soul of Provence. Each day unfolds leisurely and inspires you as you discover unique places, encounter incredible art, and savor mouthwatering dishes.

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a wonderful blend of the Mediterranean world. The strategic location of Sicily has made it a melting pot of civilizations, evident in its diverse cuisine, architecture and traditions. So rather than going straight to Taormina’s touristy "White Lotus" filming spots, why not explore this island’s rugged, beautiful soul? Take in the beauty of its beaches, the mystical presence of ever-looming Etna and excessive amounts of ricotta-filled cannoli. Sicily can be a destination in itself, or combine it with the Amalfi Coast or Puglia.

Heat, adventure and endless horizons. This summer, my family and I spent over two incredible weeks exploring Baja California Sur. It was a land of extremes: scorching heat, rugged roads, pristine beauty and hidden gems. If you’re curious about Cabo San Lucas, you won’t find it in this article (though I’ve got plenty of tips if you’re interested — just shoot me an email). Instead, let me take you off the beaten path.