Oahu is an island where you can embrace Hawaii’s natural beauty, cultural depth, and fun city life. No matter what you’re looking for on your vacation, Oahu can offer something for every traveler. It’s also a fun place to visit at different times of year; winter visits can provide great whale-watching whereas summer can be a wonderful time for snorkeling and swimming.
If you’re looking for luxury while you’re in Oahu, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach recently completed a multi-phase renovation that included room upgrades, expanded amenities like an infinity pool, and new dining facilities. The five star hotel is also providing curated immersive activities for their guests to enhance their island experience. The hotel offers hotel amenities as well as the conveniences of home and whether you are looking for a single room or a four-bedroom, two-story residence, this hotel can accommodate you.
If you’ve followed the news at all the past week, you’ve probably heard about the Louvre robbery. Last week, thieves struck the Apollo Gallery in a daytime heist making off with millions of dollars worth of jewelry. As of today, two suspects were arrested for the robbery, including one man who was caught while trying to leave the country.
The Louvre Museum in Paris is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and one of the largest art museums. It sees millions of visitors every year from around the world, including yours truly several years ago. And despite the recent activity, the Louvre is a great way to spend a day, looking at the thousands of pieces on display, including the Mona Lisa.
If you’re a fan of architecture, you will probably be captivated by the historic palace rooms (it was once a palace before it became a museum) and the modern glass pyramid, which has become a symbol of Paris. The Louvre is one of those landmarks that you don’t want to leave France without visiting. Make sure you carve out time to really get a chance to take in every sculpture and piece of artwork!
Napa Valley, California is one of the world’s most well-known wine regions, but vineyards aren’t the only thing that Napa has to offer. There are luxury resorts, gourmet cuisine, and outdoor activities. Napa is just over an hour away from San Francisco and is the perfect spot for romance, a foodie vacation, or a friends’ trip. Spring and fall are great times to visit, although winter trips can offer good deals on hotels and wine tastings.
What to do in Napa
While you’re there, go on a wine tasting and tour (don’t forget to reserve your tastings in advance, since some boutique wineries have limited spots available.)
Spa it up at one of the many spas available. A spa day is an ideal break between tastings and other activities.
Napa is a great foodie destination, and a good place to try some of the wonderful farm to table dining spots.
Bring your sneakers or hiking boots for some scenic hiking and biking. Skyline Wilderness Park is one popular location for hiking and mountain biking.
Where to Stay
Meadowood Napa Valley is a hotel located on an estate that offers 36 beautiful suites and rooms as well as regional cuisine, and amenities like spa services. The hotel has 24 hour security, complimentary parking, dining onsite, as well as shopping. If you’re looking for something fun to do onsite during your stay, the hotel offers bicycle rentals, a fitness center, jacuzzi/whirlpool, pool, sauna, and tennis courts. There are babysitting services available, housekeeping, room service, and a concierge desk to answer your questions.
Current deal: Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability, daily full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, $100 USD equivalent resort or hotel credit to be utilized during stay, and early check-in/late check-out subject to availability.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is a luxury cruise line that offers all-inclusive service on intimate, elegant ships. Regent offers spacious all-suite accommodations, many with private balconies and amenities that include gourmet dining, premium wines and spirits, and services like valet laundry. Regent will take you to more than 550 destinations worldwide, including locations in Africa, Alaska, Asia, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Western and Central Europe, and more.
Regent’s current promotion is is their First Class in Every Way deal. With this promotion, travelers get free round-trip first class air plus private chauffeured transfers for select 2025/2026 Alaska, Caribbean, Canada, and New England voyages. This deal is valid for travel between 11/2/2025-10/20/2026. If you book with a travel agent, you may also be eligible for a ship credit and a welcome reception.
If you’re interested in setting sale with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, start here.
Are you looking for a trip that’s a little out of the ordinary? If you’re wanting a spooky Halloween adventure, there are three US cities that can provide the thrills and chills you’re seeking. Whether you’re fascinated by witches, ghosts, or historic horrors, these destinations can give you that eerie energy you’re looking for:
Salem, Massachusetts
You’ve probably heard about Salem, Massachusetts, the location of the 1692 Witch Trials, wherein hundreds of people were accused of witchcraft. There is a lot to do in Salem, especially for history buffs. You can take a trip to several different museums, such as the Salem Witch Museum, and learn more about the city’s past and the fates of those accused of witchcraft. If you’re interested in scares, you can join a walking tour and learn about paranormal activity, ghostly sightings, and unexplained occurrences.
New Orleans, Louisiana
I went on a great girls’ trip to Louisiana some years ago and enjoyed the cemetery and ghost tours; I can only imagine how fun they’d be during Halloween. Hear stories of vampires, hauntings, and voodoo and afterwards, get a tarot reading from one of the many tarot card readers in the city. And (this isn’t scary) but make sure you grab a beignet while you’re there!
Savannah, Georgia
If you’re looking for haunts, Savannah should be high on your list. Savannah is considered the most haunted city in America. Like the other cities on this list, there are ghost tours available…in this case, there’s a ghost trolley tour to learn more about Savannah’s most haunted areas. There are also other paranormal tours available or you can take a walk through the Bonaventure Cemetery, which was featured in the 90’s movie, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
This Halloween, pack your bags, grab your bravest travel buddy, and get ready for a spooky trip. Whether you choose to visit Salem, New Orleans, or Savannah, each city will offer you a memorable adventure.
Have you ever heard of a DMC? It stands for “Destination Management Company.” A DMC consists of the on-the-ground pros who can serve as an invaluable resource when you travel.
A DMC can serve as an excellent partner to your travel agent, since they work locally and can provide insight on getting around the city and enjoying the best experiences the destination has to offer. They can help you find reliable tour operators, avoid tourist traps, and add authentic, local touches to your trip.
Think of a DMC as your travel agent’s local execution team. Your travel agent can help you book the best flights and hotels (often with perks and upgrades), build itineraries for you, coordinate multiple destinations, transfers, and group needs. They can also advocate for you before, during, and after travel. A DMC can offer insider access and specialized tours, handle ground logistics, and provide authentic, curated activities.For example, I recently booked a client’s trip to China. I handled most of the logistics but then utilized Kensington Tours to provide a tour once they got to China. Kensington provides a local guide, local transfers, and books experiences and excursions.
So what do you think? Will you use a DMC for your next trip?
One of my favorite modes of travel to recommend are cruises. Not only do you get a fun vacation, but it’s an easy way to travel. It’s great for multi-generational travel, group travel, and for those looking to see different destinations without having to pack and unpack several times. And with meals included (and the ability to buy drink packages), entertainment and dining are easy to manage. A cruise package makes a great vacation for you or a great gift for a family member or friend.
Here is the latest cruise deal round-up:
Regent Seven Seas
Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers luxury cruises from the Caribbean to the fjords of Saguenay, while providing amenities like unlimited shore excursions, included specialty dining, and more.
My current travel deals: You can get free round-trip first-class airfare, plus private chauffeured transfers for select voyages. You can also get special benefits like up to a $150 shipboard credit per person.
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean is fun cruise to take with family, because it includes so many awesome things to do. Onboard you’ll find everything from adrenaline-pumping activities to relaxing activities: water slides, surfing simulators (FlowRider), zip lines, rock climbing walls, laser tag, bumper cars, mini golf, fitness centers, multiple pools and hot tubs, and full spa services. They also run full programs for kids and teens.
If you’re interested, my current offering is a specialty dining experience for two and a complimentary spa treatment when you purchase a junior Suite or higher.
Seabourn
I just booked someone on a Seabourn cruise and I’m very excited for their trip! Seabourn is a luxury small-ship cruise line goes to destinations all over the world, from the Mediterranean and Europe to the Caribbean, from Asia to polar and expedition cruises. Each ship is all-suite, with oceanfront views and verandas. Cruise dining is gourmet with premium wines and spirits. On-board enrichment is wrapped into the cruise experience. Because the ships are smaller (typically between 458 and 600 guests) and the staff-to-guest ratios are very high, the service feels personal and intuitive, with your needs often anticipated.
My current deal is a $200 onboard credit for select sailings.
These are just a few cruise deals. If you want to know more or if you have a certain cruise line you’d like to learn more about or check on additional deals, please start here.
If you are looking for a trip to take at the end of fall/beginning of winter, Mexico is a top contender. Known for its beautiful beaches, competitive pricing, and amazing culture and history, Mexico is a great destination for those looking for a quick trip. The period of September- November is less crowded and more affordable than other times of year and coincides with the rainy/stormy season on both coasts. The weather tends to improve at the end of October and in November and there’s a lower risk of encountering storms. You also get the benefit of being able to participate in festivals, such as Dia de Los Muertos which takes place the first few days of November.
Winter is a great time to travel to Mexico and the crowds begin to pick up around then, with many people trying to escape the winter chill in their own hometowns. You’ll find comfortable weather in the 70’s and 80’s on the coasts and beaches, perfect for sightseeing or just hanging out in the sunshine.
If you’re interested in visiting Mexico this fall or winter, check out these great hotel deals:
La Valise San Miguel
La Valise San Miguel offers the warm, intimate ambiance of a private home, with six beautifully furnished suites available. Each room includes a fireplace and a spa-inspired bathroom. In the middle of the property is a peaceful courtyard, complete with a plunge pool, a jacuzzi, and a lemon tree.
My 2025 deals include: an upgrade on arrival, subject to availability, daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, $100 USD equivalent resort or hotel credit, early check-in/late check-out when available.
And to make your experience even more memorable: try immersing yourself in the local culture. Visit the hot springs or learn about wine-making along the Guanajuato Wine Circuit.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Nestled along Mexico’s Riviera Maya, Banyan Tree Mayakoba feels like stepping into a private paradise. Every villa here comes with its own private pool and spacious indoor/outdoor living. The resort is surrounded by winding canals, tropical mangroves, and beautiful beaches- you are immersed in nature at every turn.
The Banyan Tree Spa offers over-water therapy villas and treatment that integrates the calm of the jungle. Take advantage of your time at Banyan and try golfing or curated adventures like snorkeling, tours, and cultural excursions. My current deal: get your 4th night free, complimentary breakfast at Restaurant Oriente or Sands, $100 resort credit per stay. You may also be able to get early check-in/late check-out and upgrades, if available.
Presidente InterContinental Cozumel
Located on Cozumel’s largest private beach, Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa offers a tropical escape and refined amenities. You’ll enjoy gorgeous Caribbean views from your balcony or terrace. The resort’s 221 rooms and suites incorporate contemporary Mexican design with natural wood, marble touches, and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to the sea or garden. Some rooms offer direct beach access or plunge pools, and there are also suites available.
Inside the resort, you’ll find plenty to entertain all kinds of travelers. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can explore the world-class coral reefs just steps from shore. You can swim in one of the two outdoor pools, relax at the spa with hydrotherapy and Mayan-inspired treatments, or get active at the fitness center. Restaurants on-site offer Mexican, Italian, Mediterranean, and Asian-influenced dining.
My current deals: Daily breakfast, $100 resort credit per stay and early check-in/late check-out if available, and upgrades if available.
These are just a few ideas for your Mexico vacation. If you want to explore more options, start here.
I’ve been planning a group Mexico trip for a client so I’ve been diving deep into beautiful Mexican resorts. For anyone ready to take the gang on a sun-filled vacation, here are some reasons Mexico can be an ideal group trip.
Easy Accessibility
With major airports in Cancún, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and Los Cabos, getting to Mexico is simple from most U.S. and Canadian cities. Frequent direct flights mean your group can arrive around the same time, minimizing travel stress. (Tip: I can book private ground transportation to take your group to your hotel.)
Something for Every Traveler
Mexico is a diverse country, offering options for every type of traveler in your group: Beach lovers will find paradise in Cancún, Riviera Maya, or Cabo San Lucas. Adventure seekers can explore cenotes, go zip-lining in the jungle, or hike volcanoes. Culture buffs can tour ancient Mayan ruins like Chichén Itzá or enjoy the vibrant art scene in Mexico City. Foodies will love sampling everything from street tacos to gourmet Mexican cuisine.
All-Inclusive Resorts Simplify Planning
For group trips, all-inclusive resorts are a game-changer. Everyone knows what’s covered..lodging, meals, drinks, and entertainment. This makes splitting costs and planning activities much easier. Many resorts even offer group discounts, private event spaces, and activities designed for larger gatherings.
Budget-Friendly Options
Mexico offers great value for group travelers. From luxury beachfront villas to budget-friendly boutique hotels, there’s accommodations to suit every price point. Plus, your dollar goes farther.
Ideal for Special Occasions
Whether it’s a family reunion, a wedding, a milestone birthday, or a corporate retreat, Mexico provides beautiful scenery and the opportunity to make wonderful memories.
Snapshot Vacations 