A stay at Tanah Merah was a highlight of a visit to Ubud, Bali, several years ago. This secluded boutique hotel in a luxuriant tropical setting is the perfect place to chill out. Like much of Bali, there is something mystical about it so I knew I’d return. I did … Read more
Whether you’re snapping memorable shots on your smartphone or a digital SLR, a visually arresting destination is non-negotiable. New Zealand, India, and Holland provide some of the most picturesque sights for the fervent photographer. Zoom in on an intricate architecture or practice your landscape photography skills in a field of … Read more
Electronic Dance Music lovers worldwide rejoice: the 2015 International Festival Guide is here. From snowcapped mountaintops to desert oases, stunning natural landscapes to intricate man-made stages, in the heat of the summer months these international music festivals are cooler than ever. Boasting hours upon hours of partying, dancing, and good … Read more
If Sunset Boulevard’s Norma Desmond stepped out of the classic 1942 film and into the lobby of the Kensington Park Hotel in downtown San Francisco, she’d be right at home. The intricately detailed space makes quite a statement starting with the architectural details … soaring hand painted beamed ceilings and … Read more
The essence of adventure travel is challenging yourself to find excitement everywhere it lurks. Sand-boarding down dunes, camel trekking through deserts and dog sledding over icy tundra are surely adrenaline-worthy activities. Here’s the Squire’s short list of his favorites. Just don’t forget your backpack and camera— oh, and leave your … Read more
Sitting squat on a forlorn block in the Union Square vicinity, San Francisco’s Hotel Nikko will not surprise you as a striking architectural gem, but no matter. As you step inside the towering concrete mass an instant feeling of Zen alters the senses, the sound of water gurgling, a perfect … Read more
Fortunately my legs got a break after six hours of straight downhill skiing (and a few wipeouts), when I found my sanctuary at Cordillera Lodge & Spa. I was thrilled to recline, give my thighs a break and refuel on a bowl of chili washed down with a warm cup … Read more
After a hectic week, let’s face it; we all need a little downtime. Whether you’re a workaholic or a homebody, you deserve a break from your immediate environment. Isn’t it about time to switch up Chinese takeout and your apartment window’s fire-escape view? Snoop through our list here; as short … Read more
A busy travel writer is always looking for anything that can make her mobile lifestyle a little bit easier, from electronics to clothing and footwear, and more. That goes for her bags, too, which must be sturdy enough to withstand the constant manhandling, changes in temperature, frequent openings and closings … Read more
The last rays of steely blue sunlight are just beginning to fade as I settle into the Nederhütte, an old-world style ski hut nestled in the Austrian Alps toward the bottom of a ski run. Inside, men are in lederhosen and ski boots, countless dancing with hands raised grabbing at … Read more
Does the thought of lugging your carry-ons around an unknown airport, so close yet so far from your destination, sound as exciting as searching for a power socket? Well, kinda’ like that one shekel coin you found at Ben Gurion airport last year, there are two sides to everything—even a … Read more
If you’re anything like me, then you think that a vacation is a chance to spoil yourself with extravagant comforts and amenities. Why shouldn’t you feel like royalty in your home away from home? Our friends at The Luxury Travel Bible have curated a list of the most luxurious new … Read more
If you can find the front door of the Hotel Union Square amid the motley storefronts on the lively block of Powell Street, you’re in for a surprise. Two stunning 10 foot mosaics grace either side of the entrance, a clear indication of the building’s 1913 landmark pedigree. Mind you, … Read more
Home to the international Peace Palace, 118 embassies and King Willem-Alexander, The Hague is one of the Netherlands most extraordinary cities. This “Royal City by the Sea” is also home to a girl whose face you may recognize – Johannes Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring. The Girl recently returned … Read more
Key West is unlike any place you’ve ever been. Sunsets are celebrated, roosters roam the streets, conch fritters are a recognized food group, drinking is an Olympic sport and everyone – and I do mean everyone – has a story. As one Key West resident told me, “This is where … Read more