Gabrielle Brechner

India is a country rich in vibrant sights, deep spirituality, welcoming hospitality, stunning nature and amazing food and aromas. The people in India, whether they live in densely populated cities or rural villages, are among the kindest, most welcoming I have ever encountered in travel to over 50 countries. India (happily) reminded me that there are parts of the world that are still so completely different from the West, and that the world truly is beautiful in all of its differences. I am plotting my return… again, and again, and again. Of course, India is massive, and different from city to city, state to state, region to region. So, where should you start planning for your first trip, and what might you add on? Lucky for you, you know a great travel advisor!

Deciding where to base yourself on a trip to Aspen is a task for first-timers and veterans alike. There are so many amazing Aspen boutique hotels to lay your head, depending on your vibe and the kind of vacation you're taking. Where you stay isn't just about where you ski!

From Edinburgh's Medieval architecture to Jacobite battlefields in the Highlands, Scotland's history and beauty is on full display as you move north through the country on this week (ish)-long road trip that's perfect for curious travelers of all ages.

Long overlooked, this bustling port city - repeatedly voted the world's "greenest city," combines classic European charm with swinging 60's architecture, a bevy of second-hand shops, world-class museums, Michelin-worthy dining and (in my opinion), Europe's best amusement park, hands-down. Incredibly easy to navigate, and now with a nonstop SAS flight from Newark, Gothenburg is the perfect entry point to Scandinavia from the US.

If you know me, you know I love Scandinavia. I can't get enough of it. But until recently, I had somehow never been to Stockholm. I can say it out loud now... Stockholm is my new favorite city (move over, Paris)! It combines a classic European feel with innovative, sleek design sensibilities, an amazing food scene, the most resplendent nature right in its backyard, and the friendliest people. You can get a taste of it in three days, but if you give yourself a week, you'll really be able to immerse yourself in all it has to offer.

London is the first place I would choose to live if I ever had to leave NYC. It's always my quick weekend away, and when I'm there I cram in as many shows as possible, hit the Tate and just walk, walk, walk. I could walk London for days on end, popping into shops and eating amazing food along the way. I recently had the chance to introduce my boys (7 and 10 at the time) to this incredible city, and they fell in love with it as fiercely as I did on my first trip back in 1986. This is their "Top 5 for Tweens" list (with a few honorable mentions), but I fully enjoyed every one of these, so I'd say its "Top 5 London for Kids Ages 6-600!"

A major metropolitan city nestled in natural splendor, Oslo is in the midst of a revival. I’ve been going to Oslo regularly for 20 years, and never has it been as vibrant, accessible and FUN as it is now. In summer, the glimmering Munchmuseet and “scandi-cool” Opera House tower over groups gathered on “Opera Beach,” swimming in the fjords and enjoying picnics. And in all seasons, the jewels of Norway’s history are on display. Norway is the land of Ibsen, Munch and Grieg; the former seat of Vikings; a country with a rich and still important folk history. All of these elements are proudly showcased in this city set between stunning mountains and shining fjords.