Places to Go, Reasons to Gather.
Travel isn’t always about booking your next vacation. This month’s roundup covered the many ways travel and special occasions come together—from destination weddings and managing group gatherings to finding the right setting for celebrations and events. Along the way, explore NYC through the seasons, Alaska by land and sea, the art of living in Florence, and Cambodia beyond Angkor Wat.
Photo: The Cloister at Sea Island, Georgia
Alaska By Land & Sea
Whether you’re after outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, or a bit of both, Alaska is one of those rare destinations that leaves a lasting impression. Towering mountains, massive glaciers, and roaming wildlife around every bend make it feel like another world, yet it’s surprisingly easy to explore. Whether by cruise, train, or guided tour, the experiences are unforgettable.
Alaska works for all kinds of travelers. Families can bond over whale watching and wildlife adventures, while thrill-seekers can chase backcountry experiences or helicopter to remote glaciers. Beyond the scenery, Alaska has a rich cultural heart, with Indigenous heritage, historic gold rush towns, and welcoming communities proud to share their stories.
Destination “I Do”
Your first “I Do”, second time around, or a third trip down the aisle? It’s OK, I’m not counting! As for destination of your big day, the possibilities are endless.
A European setting offers centuries-old romance, from vineyard receptions in Tuscany to castle celebrations in the Scottish Highlands. Across the Caribbean, each island offers its own version of paradise, while Mexico adds flair and color, with oceanfront vows in Cabo and coastal romance in Riviera Maya.
In the US, choose from beachside bliss in Hawai’i and California, mountain charm in Montana or Vermont, Southern charm in Georgia and Tennessee, or sophisticated city weddings in New York or Texas.
In Your Wedding Era
This summer brought plenty of celebrity weddings. Behind every seemingly effortless event is a team making it all happen. One of the most common wedding planning mistakes I see? Waiting too long to book the room block.
Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering, a destination wedding, or a grand celebration, your guests’ accommodation should be part of the plan from the start. Popular hotels fill quickly for peak wedding weekends, and getting ahead means more choice, better rates, and greater leverage for perks and concessions.
Ask me about groups
I can manage the entire group travel process—one point of contact, from room block to guest logistics, so you can simply focus on “I do.”
The Best Times to Visit NYC
New York is a year-round city, but spring (April–June) and fall (October–November) are the most consistently enjoyable windows, delivering mild temperatures and full energy. September is the exception to fall—particularly in Midtown East, the UN General Assembly and back-to-back fashion weeks spike hotel rates and block restaurant reservations.
Summer (June–August) is hot and humid, but pairs well with a Hamptons extension; August, however, sees locals clear out, allowing more options but showcasing less character. Winter (December–March) is cold but brings quintessential New York Christmas celebrations.
Florence The Art of Living
Florence is where Renaissance art, beautiful architecture, artisan craftsmanship, and everyday Italian life come together. Explore world-renowned museums, centuries-old workshops, elegant boutiques, and traditional osterias, then wander the lively Mercato Centrale or watch the sunset from San Miniato al Monte.
Beyond the historic center, vineyards, hill towns, and beautiful estates unfold across the Tuscan countryside, making Florence an ideal base for exploring Tuscany.
Self-Service Wellness
Wellness in 2026 is less about booking treatments and more about having access—on your own schedule. Properties offering access to wellness amenities like plunge pools and hot springs, saunas, with these experiences being as easy to pop into—and as expected—as a hotel gym.
Cambodia Beyond Angkor
Cambodia is a country where ancient history, resilient culture, and everyday life come together in remarkable ways. In Siem Reap, explore the extraordinary Angkor Wat complex and jungle-covered temple ruins. Phnom Penh offers a deeper look at the country’s past and present, while the southern coast and islands reveal a slower side, with quiet beaches, fishing villages, and turquoise waters.
Along the way, discover vibrant markets, fragrant Khmer cuisine, and the warm hospitality that makes Cambodia so memorable.
Having lived in Southeast Asia and traveled to Cambodia several times, I’m happy to share my personal insights and help you create an itinerary that brings the very best of the country together.
Keep Sharing Your Travel Dreams
One of my favorite parts of this newsletter is hearing about the places you’re dreaming of visiting. Each month, I’ll be drawing one winner to receive a desk mat featuring your favorite destination. If you haven’t shared your travel wish list yet, click the button below and tell me where you want to go!
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