Ashly Petropulos

O‘ahu has always held a special place in my heart. I first lived in Waikiki in my early twenties, soaking in the vibrant energy and stunning ocean views. Returning years later with my husband, kids, in-laws, and my mom to celebrate my oldest child’s 10th birthday made the island even more meaningful. O’ahu is where cherished memories span generations, blending the excitement of youth with the warmth of family togetherness.

In June of 2023, I spent an incredible two nights at THE US GRANT with my Husband and three children. The grandeur of this historic hotel matched the comfort level of our Signature Studio Suite. Located in the heart of Downtown San Diego, just steps from the Gaslamp Quarter, you will never run out of things to do or restaurants to dine at. My kids were fascinated by the historic traditions that carry on at The US Grant, particularly the lighting of the candles in the Grand Lobby. The notable decor, architecture and ceremonies preformed by the hotel staff sparked many educational conversations throughout our stay and beyond. I would stay here again and would recommend it to my clients.

While living in Dubai, I had the pleasure of staying at some of the finest hotels in Downtown Dubai. My two favorites are The Address and the infamous Armani Hotel at the Burj Khalifa. The restaurants, clubs, location, accommodations, staff and amenities are all the best this iconic city has to offer.

My first experience at The Lafayette was many years ago when my bridal party hosted my bachelorette weekend at this hip North Park Hotel. More recently this property has undergone a 31 million dollar transformation. We occupied two very different rooms at The Lafayette. A pool side two queen and a two bedroom bungalow. I would recommend this hotel to any client looking to for a unique boutique hotel experience.

Porto's blend of historic charm and vibrant culture provided the perfect backdrop for our romantic getaway. We loved wandering through the Ribeira district's narrow streets, discovering hidden gems around every corner and enjoying intimate dinners at cozy, family-run restaurants. The breathtaking views from the Dom Luís I Bridge, the captivating beauty of Livraria Lello and the serene moments in the Crystal Palace Gardens made our trip unforgettable. The highlight was our private Douro Valley wine tour, where we shared delicious wines and stunning scenery, creating lasting memories together. Porto’s welcoming atmosphere and rich experiences truly made our visit special.

LEGOLAND Resort California holds a special place in our hearts, as we were passholders for two memorable years. The resort became our family's go-to destination for fun and adventure, creating countless cherished memories together. From the imaginative rides to the intricate LEGO displays, every visit was a new discovery, fostering a bond and sense of wonder that we will treasure forever.

Lagos is a perfect destination on Portugal's southern coast to unwind after a jam-packed European vacation. Lagos is a coastal town that offers both giant cliff rock formations with excellent views and lovely beaches to throw your towel down and soak up the Portuguese sunshine. This town truly has something for everyone. Feed your adventurous soul with a sea cave kayaking tour, surf lesson or take a quad bike tour through the National Park. If you're ready for a must needed break from the hustle and bustle, spend the day lying about on one of the many beaches and take a stroll through the cobble stone streets of Old Town.

Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, stands as a uniquely special destination due to the harmonious convergence of its cultural diversity, unparalleled biodiversity and laid-back coastal lifestyle. The town's distinct charm emanates from the rich tapestry of indigenous Bribri and Cabécar traditions blending seamlessly with Afro-Caribbean influences, creating a cultural mosaic that is both vibrant and resilient. Nestled along the lush Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo's pristine beaches and renowned surf breaks beckon, offering a sanctuary for those seeking sun-soaked serenity. The region's exceptional biodiversity, spanning dense rainforests to coral-rich waters, further enhances its allure, providing a haven for an array of flora and fauna. Above all, it is the warmth of the community, their shared stories and a profound connection to the land and sea that make Puerto Viejo an extraordinary and soulful haven, inviting visitors to not just witness its beauty but also to become a part of its captivating narrative.