When a client says, “We’re thinking Portugal or Spain, which one do you think is better?” I always pause. Because it’s not about being better. It’s about fit. Portugal and Spain both deliver beautiful hotels, incredible food, and unforgettable experiences, but the feeling of each trip is entirely different. Choosing the right one is really […]

If you’re considering a first trip to France, you’re in good company. It’s one of my favorite destinations to design for. France travel for first timers can feel both thrilling and slightly overwhelming. This guide is designed to help you arrive prepared, grounded, and ready to enjoy the best of what this romantic, layered country […]

If you’ve ever felt a little too “American tourist” on a trip to Paris, Rome, or Lisbon — bright sneakers, a camera around your neck, or a loud conversation on the metro — you might wish you knew how to not stand out as an American in Europe. As someone who plans trips for clients […]

Did you know most Americans get two weeks of PTO per year and yet dream of seeing the world in a much bigger way? The good news: with a little planning, you can stretch those days into long, restorative escapes. In this post, I’ll show you how to maximize your holiday travel in 2026 by […]

Planning a trip to Iceland? Here’s exactly what to pack for Iceland: essentials I recommend to everyclient, especially those heading into a climate that shifts dramatically within the same day. Fromglacier hikes to geothermal soaks, packing smart is the difference between fully enjoying youradventure and wishing you’d brought better socks. 1. Base Layers That Breathe […]

If you’re wondering what to expect when you travel to Iceland, you’re not alone. This rugged, surreal destination is on many dream lists, but it’s not your typical European getaway. Whether you’re visiting the volcanoes, the Northern Lights, or the design-forward Reykjavik scene, here’s what to know before you go. Weather in Iceland Even in […]

I used to think Tuscany had the best food in Italy — until I spent a week in Puglia. Here, the air smells like olive oil and sea salt. Every meal is an experience, not a performance. The bread is baked by hand in 16th-century ovens, the burrata is made that morning, and the pasta… […]

Wondering how to pack for Croatia? Here’s the truth– you don’t need to overpack or reinvent your style. Think light, polished, and practical. Whether you’re walking the cobblestone streets of Dubrovnik, enjoying a seaside dinner in Hvar, or sailing the Dalmatian coast, here’s my guide to what to wear (and what not to forget). Light […]

You booked the flights. The hotel’s confirmed. Everything looks perfect—until the unexpected travel costs start creeping in. Most travelers have been there. That “great deal” turns into something far less sparkly once resort fees, tipping expectations, or international transaction charges surface. If you’ve ever arrived home from a trip feeling more financially frazzled than refreshed, […]

It’s easier to imagine summer cocktails on a Mediterranean terrace than it is to actually carve out time to plan them. That’s where most people go wrong—waiting until it’s too late, watching airfare climb, and settling for what’s left. If you’re wondering how to plan your 2026 travel year without the stress, I’ve created a […]