Sara Umali

Sometimes the most transformative journeys are the ones we never planned. Our last-minute Alaska cruise became a profound reminder of what happens when we step away from the relentless pace of daily life and allow ourselves to be dwarfed by something infinitely larger. Alaska doesn’t just offer scenery—it offers perspective, stripping away the noise to reveal the raw magnificence of a world that operates on geological time. This wasn’t just a vacation—it was a necessary recalibration of the soul.

The first sound that welcomed us to Istanbul wasn’t the familiar hum of city traffic, but the call to prayer, drifting through our hotel window like an ancient melody. After twenty hours of travel, that ethereal call felt less like an interruption and more like an invitation and a reminder that we had arrived somewhere extraordinary. There’s a line from another traveler’s journal that has stayed with me: “Istanbul didn’t just break my sense of direction. It broke my binary thinking. This is a city that dares you to hold two truths at once. You can be lost and exactly where you are.” This captures something essential about the Istanbul experience—the way it challenges our need to categorize, to choose sides, to make things fit into neat boxes.

Cascais captured our hearts as the perfect antidote to Portugal’s bustling capital—a coastal retreat where salty air and the rhythm of Atlantic waves create an instantly calming atmosphere just west of Lisbon. This charming beach town offers something truly special: the rare ability to slow down time while still being connected to urban energy, making it feel like a completely different world despite being a stone’s throw away from the city. What makes Cascais particularly meaningful is its seamless blend of old and new—where cobblestone streets lined with art galleries like Galeria5050 showcase local talent, while historic pilgrimage route markers for Santiago de Compostela remind you that centuries of travelers have found solace here, too.

Emilia-Romagna represents Italy at its most authentic—a region where culinary mastery and cultural treasures exist without the need for fanfare. While tourists crowd Florence and Venice, this northern region offers something more precious: the chance to experience Italy as Italians do, where life moves with the seasons, and every meal tells a story of generations-old traditions. Here, you’ll find the birthplace of beloved classics like Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and true Bolognese ragù, crafted by artisans who view their work as both art and heritage. The region’s quiet confidence extends beyond its kitchens to its extraordinary mosaics in Ravenna, its legendary automotive heritage in Modena, and its scholarly atmosphere in Bologna. Emilia-Romagna doesn’t compete for attention—it simply delivers an Italy that feels both timeless and alive, where discovering hidden gems feels effortless because authenticity is woven into the fabric of daily life.

San Sebastián: This coastal gem brings a smile to our faces. Nestled in Spain’s enchanting Basque Country (Euskadi), where mountains meet the Bay of Biscay, San Sebastián (or Donostia in Basque) captivates visitors with its perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and world-class cuisine. Just over the French border in Spain, San Sebastián has preserved its unique Basque identity and spirit while being influenced by both Spanish and French cultures. Walking through its streets, you’ll hear the ancient Euskara language alongside Spanish—a testament to the resilience of Basque traditions through centuries of history.

Looking for a quick dose of sunshine, relaxation, and good vibes? Welcome to Palm Springs, the “Capital of Cool,” where a unique blend of style, sunshine, and modern desert chic creates the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable escape. This desert oasis, nestled in the Coachella Valley, offers a fantastic blend of retro charm and modern delights. We’re talking a California getaway that’s equal parts stylish, adventurous, and blissfully laid-back.

Mexico City—the name evokes a vibrant blend of history and modern buzz. Forget stereotypes—the city offers a captivating energy, a place where Frida Kahlo's spirit dances on colorful walls and the aroma of sizzling street food hangs deliciously in the air. Two days might seem like a blink, but with a little planning, it's just enough to get gloriously lost in its soul and leave you yearning for more.