Relais & Châteaux, the epitome of boutique luxury and gastronomic excellence, took me on an unforgettable journey through Brittany and beyond. From the modern elegance of Les Lumière in Versailles to the coastal charm of Domaine de Rochevilaine, and the forest retreat of Domaine de Locguenole, each property offered a unique blend of heritage, comfort, and world-class hospitality. Along the way, I discovered hidden gems like Les Etangs de Corot, Saint James Paris, and Relais Christine—each steeped in charm and character. Whether you're craving Michelin-starred cuisine, serene spas, or unique accommodations (hello, hen house!), Relais & Châteaux delivers moments of unparalleled beauty and indulgence. Ready to explore?
Tucked away in the North Atlantic, the Faroe Islands are a remote paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike. With more sheep than people, this rugged, green archipelago boasts dramatic cliffs, serene waterfalls, and unspoiled landscapes that feel straight out of a fairy tale. It’s perfect for those seeking solitude and breathtaking hikes, but don’t expect luxury—cozy B&Bs and self-catering cottages are the norm.
Between sampling local brews and savoring fresh salmon or lamb, you can explore the islands by car, boat, or even via impressive subsea tunnels. For a unique cultural experience, share a meal with a Faroese family or explore the capital, Tórshavn, home to Michelin-guide restaurants. If you crave the untouched and undiscovered, the Faroe Islands are calling.
Peru was one of the first places I booked when I started my travel business, relying on trusted Virtuoso partners on the ground. Years later, I set off on my own 8-night adventure through Peru, starting solo in Lima, exploring the Sacred Valley, and ending in Cusco. While Machu Picchu is the headline act, Peru’s real charm lies in its unexpected gems: incredible food, stunning landscapes, and rich Incan culture. Just a heads up—Machu Picchu can be crowded, especially during peak season, and Cusco's altitude hits hard at over 11,000 feet. Hydrate, eat light, and sip coca tea to adjust. Peru isn’t just about the iconic sights; it’s the journey that makes it truly unforgettable.
Nestled along Vietnam’s central coast, Hoi An is a town where history, culture, and craftsmanship intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. Imagine strolling through lantern-lit streets, where ancient wooden houses stand as silent witnesses to centuries of diverse cultural influences. Known as the "tailoring capital of Southeast Asia," Hoi An offers the unique opportunity to have a custom suit crafted in just a few days, blending tradition with modern convenience. As night falls, the town transforms into a vibrant spectacle of lights and colors, with lanterns floating on the Thu Bon River, creating a scene straight out of a fairytale. Hoi An is more than a destination; it’s a place where every moment becomes a cherished memory.
Istanbul, a city where the past seamlessly intertwines with the present, beckons travelers to embark on an enchanting journey through its rich history, culture, and architectural marvels. Join me as I delve into the captivating experiences that await in this mesmerizing city, where every corner, every mosque, every market, and every experience tells a story, inviting you to become a part of its timeless narrative. From the majestic views of the Galata Tower to the spiritual grandeur of the Ayasofya Grand Mosque, and the subterranean wonders of the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul enchants and educates in equal measure. With its recent rejuvenation, the Blue Mosque stands as a testament to Istanbul's enduring beauty, while the Grand Bazaar beckons with its treasures. A Turkish bath experience and a Bosphorus sunset dinner cruise provide unique insights into the city's soul. Rediscovering Istanbul is like turning the pages of a captivating history book, one where the past dances gracefully with the present, inviting you to explore, learn, and savor its cultural richness.
I first went to Morocco In 1993 on a travel agent familiarization trip. I was still single and invited a female friend to join me. It was our first time in Africa and the visual impact it left us still influences our color and design choices. My friend went on to design and produce carpets out of Morocco. I swore to return one day with a loved one in tow.
My photo in Majorelle Gardens from 1990’s in film and 2022 in digital.
Never did I imagine that it would take almost thirty years to return; this time as a travel advisor leading my own group of eight friends and family on an affordable luxury trip starting in the ancient city of Fez, through the Atlas Mountains to reach the Sahara desert, and recover in the Oasis to reach magical Marrakech.
This trip was our gift to our mother for her 80th birthday and was originally planned for April 2020. Well, we all know what happened then. After three postponements, we finally timed it to happen after my sister’s birthday celebration in Mallorca.
Our journey was seamless and well organized starting with a Fast Track airport service on arrival and departure. This VIP add-on service allows clients to skip the normal lines and breeze through immigration, customs and security.
Our Mercedes-Benz 14passenger van was very comfortable and well equipped with A/C, wifi , leather seats and water on board. We had a private driver and top expert guide with us throughout the trip.
A highlight of our trip was our own private luxury camp in the Sahara where we rode camels at sunset, dined under the stars and danced around the fire to the beat of African drums.
Bargaining is part of the culture and is customary in the souks. I know I did well when the seller calls me a Berber. We bought jellabas, scarves for turbans, babouches and dressed like locals on our trip making for great photos. For me, “sense of place” also pertains to how one dresses when traveling.
For this trip I chose boutique riads, hotels and lodges which was perfect for our group. I also visited other properties in Fes and Marrakech to see other options for my clients. Riads are converted houses /palaces located in the Medina. Often they are several buildings that have been connected as one. In cosmopolitan Marrakech, we had fun evenings with dinner and live entertainment (drummers, DJ, belly dancing).
Couples, families, friends looking for culture, history and adventure.
Pack your curiosity, open mindedness, and understanding. Moroccans are predominantly Muslim and the call to prayer 5x daily heard throughout the cities are a reminder of this peoples faith and devotion to Allah. I find Moroccans to be kind and gentle people. Best to greet everyone with “Salam Alekum” (May God be with you), and they will reply “Alekum Salam” (and God with you too).
Beware the snake charmers in J’Ma El Fna in Marrakech. DO NOT even think of taking a picture or you will be chased down for payment. Unless this is what you want of course.
Walk behind your guide in the Medina so sellers know you are not alone and they won’t bother you. And if they do, say NO politely and walk away without engaging in conversation.
Drink only bottled water.
Know what you want to pay for items before you start bargaining.
Bargaining is acceptable and part of the culture. A hard bargain to me is 3 offers and counter offers, verbal or written.
Ask permission to photograph or film someone before doing so.
Lamb or chicken Tagine, couscous, Moroccan mint tea (also referred to as Moroccan scotch) is green tea sweetened with sugar and infused with fresh mint leaves. A Moroccan salad are dishes of eggplant, tomatoes, cucumber, zucchini, olives.
Last May 13, I flew on United Airline’s inagural non-stop flight from Newark to Ponta Delgada in the Azores. The Azores are an autonomous region of Portugal. The mid-Atlantic archipelago has nine islands, four of which I’m exploring: Sao Miguel, Pico, Faial and Terceira.
In the short time I’ve been here, Azoreans have asked me how I know about their islands. They follow it up with a whisper, “This used to be a secret.”
Sete Cidades by Michael Girman
In less than six hours, the Azores can be reached on non-stop flights from Boston and New York.
The Azores were formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. There are lava fields, crater lakes, natural pools, hydrangea-lined roads and more cows than locals.
For many islanders, whaling was their tradition and source of income. It all stopped in 1986 and now companies rely on tourists who pay to go out to sea and watch whales and dolphins. In Pico, we spotted two blue whales and schools of common and striped dolphins.
Tuna, octopus salad, limpets, pineapples, volcanic white wine, passion fruit soda, Gorreana green tea, Bolo Levedo bread, grass-fed beef, Sao Jorge cheeses…these are a few of my favorite things.
There are so many well-marked hiking and biking trails in the islands. Surfers love Sao Miguel and divers love Pico. The air is clean and the pace is slow. Perfect for active and nature lovers and still under-developed to feel the authentic Azorean way of life.
Sao Miguel and Terceira have international airports and bigger hotels, mostly 4* The other islands have smaller boutique properties and availability becomes an issue during high season. A car rental is a must with an availability and price issue for last minute bookings. Do not expect mainland services and offerings. Take two steps back and appreciate the Azores for its unique beauty and qualities. It’s a safe destination. Being a small island, everyone knows everyone and Azoreans are kind and friendly people. Let’s plan your trip!
I recently returned from Saudi Arabia on a 10-day trip sponsored by Travel + Leisure, Saudi Tourism Authority and the Royal Commission of AlUla.
Argentina’s Patagonia is the #1 reason to visit. There are lakes to kayak, horses to ride, rivers to raft, mountains to trek, forests to hike, glaciers to trek, and penguins to visit. If you love nature and adventure, this is the country for you. But there’s more to Argentina than its natural wonders.
