Madeira is an island not well-known to Americans and it’s an extraordinary destination. Often compared to some of the Hawaiian islands, the topography is mountainous with dramatic scenery on the coast. It’s rugged, lush and the temperate climate and beautiful blooms lend themselves to an escape any time of year. … Read more
James Dean, the bad boy heartthrob of the 1950s, stayed at Mendocino’s Little River Inn while filming East of Eden. He must have been mesmerized by the Pacific Ocean views while relaxing in the comfort of Room 102. The fellow must have felt too much at home, for he got … Read more
In Arizona’s radiant Sonoran Desert, where mornings begin with pink-tinged skies and end under a canopy of stars, luxury golf getaways are elevated to an art form. While Scottsdale has long claimed its place as one of the world’s premier golf destinations, a new chapter is being written in how … Read more
Whether you’re catching a connecting flight, backpacking through Asia, or enjoying a shore excursion during one of the popular Japan cruises, spending just one day in Tokyo can feel overwhelming yet exhilarating. Japan’s capital city, which welcomed a record 36.9 million international visitors in 2024, has an incredible concentration of … Read more
I arrived at my Tennessee destination well past midnight after traveling across the country through several time zones. I didn’t even know what to expect the next day but had a good feeling. Several days later I found I was stuck on Chattanooga. It’s’ genuine Southern charm just got to … Read more
Luxury travel is more than just flying first-class, visiting the world’s most exclusive destinations, staying in 5-star hotels, and indulging in gourmet food. It’s about experiencing all of these things in comfort, style, and, most importantly, safety. High-end travelers face unique challenges, from safeguarding valuable belongings to avoiding potential scams … Read more
Join me in my travels more than 6,000 miles from home (an 11-hour flight, followed by a two-and-a-half hour drive) to the tiny Austrian town of St. Anton – to work out. The event was the eighth edition of the Mountain Yoga Festival. My travel companion, Ada, was my instructor … Read more
All photos credit: Anne Kazel-Wilcox unless otherwise noted. The sun is setting in Curacao as I sit in Fort Nassau, sipping Blue Curacao liqueur. From this historic restaurant, a former 1700s fort used to defend the Dutch against invading enemies, I have nearly 360-views of the island. The lights of … Read more
Europe stands as a culinary gold mine, renowned for its iconic dishes and deep-rooted traditions connecting food and drink to its diverse cultures. From Tuscany’s rustic landscapes to Bordeaux’s vineyards, each region offers unique insights into local heritage through its gastronomic experiences. For food and wine enthusiasts, embarking on a … Read more
Confession: My wanderlust has taken me around the world and to all seven continents as well as countless capitals … but not to Mexico City. Forget all the warnings. Mexico’s largest city, the Western Hemisphere’s most populous and a metropolis recognized as one of the world’s top 10 in size … Read more
Having lived in the San Diego area for decades, I’ve traveled across Southern California’s Mexican border countless times. And on each occasion, it has been the same. Though less than an hour away, the minute you enter Mexico – you feel it. It’s diverse, exciting and so foreign that I’ve … Read more
Japan is renowned for its hot springs, or onsen, which have been part of Japanese culture for centuries, initially associated with religious purification practices by Buddhist monks. Over time, they became integral to samurai traditions and later evolved into popular communal spaces during the Edo period. Since then, an entire … Read more
North America is a diverse natural playground for thrill-seekers, from towering peaks to rushing rivers and icy frontiers. Adrenaline junkies looking for the next great American adventure should ask what they’re looking for in their next destination – strenuous mountain hiking in the Rocky Mountains? Tranquil iceberg kayaking in Alaska? … Read more
All Photos Credit Cynthia Dial A land of lakes and streams, forests and wildlife, the Continental Divide and the Colorado River – meet Grand County, Colorado. Some back story: I’ve visited several of the Centennial State’s destinations over the years, but I kept missing Grand County. That changed. After landing … Read more
Beach resorts can have a generic quality—wherever you are in the world, there’s an infinity pool surrounded by canopy beds and a swim-up bar serving mai tais. The Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa features those familiar luxuries, but the resort also has a deep sense of place informed by … Read more