Exploring Hidden Alternatives to Popular Destinations – Part 2

As the chill of winter fades and the vibrancy of spring begins to bloom, there’s no better place to welcome the new season than Greece. With its mild weather, stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine, Greece offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for travelers seeking a rejuvenating spring break. Here are just a few reasons why Greece should be added to your travel wish-list. 1. Perfect Weather Spring in Greece is a breath of fresh air. If you are wanting a hot and sunny, tropical spring break, Greece might not be right for you. However, if you are looking for stunning views—Greece touts a seemingly endless coastline, stretching for nearly 8,500 miles across thousands of dreamy islands and magazine-shoot-ready beaches, fantastic food, and roaming through living history, Greece should be first on your list. If you are looking for that warm beach vacation—try Greece in the summer! Starting in March, the days are usually sunny and the highs get to around 60℉ (15℃). It slowly warms April-June, finding pleasant temps from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (18-22°C), making it ideal for exploring without the intense heat of summer. The gentle Mediterranean breeze and blooming wildflowers create an enchanting atmosphere that’s hard to resist. 2. Fewer Crowds Unlike the bustling summer months, spring in Greece is delightfully peaceful. Popular destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens are far less crowded, allowing you to explore iconic landmarks like the Acropolis or the charming alleys of Oia without jostling for space. This off-peak season also means shorter lines, better photo opportunities, and a more intimate experience of Greece’s beauty.

The Outlander series, blends historical fiction, fantasy, and romance, whisking us away to the Scottish Highlands and beyond, where love defies the boundaries of time, space, and circumstance. That is why it is the inspiration for the next Book Club Journeys. Travel through time and across the sea with us.

Have you ever dined alone? No, not at home, but going out on the town and treating yourself to the best. There seems to be a strange stigma around dining alone—especially in a fine dining establishment. I am here to tell you to get out of your own way—and celebrate you. I traveled to the Loire Valley in France to explore the region and scout for an upcoming book club journey. There’s something incredibly magical about the Loire Valley—the gentle hills, the vineyards stretching to the horizon, and the castles that whisper stories of centuries past.

Recently, I traveled to Los Angeles. Originally, I had planned on writing about the many fun adventures I had on my first LA trip. However, as it sometimes goes with work travel, I mostly saw the inside of the hotel. At least this hotel was the historic and iconic Biltmore . If you aren’t familiar with the Biltmore, opening on October 1, 1923 it has established a long history of elegance and opulence. Its very presence was a statement to the rest of the world that Los Angeles, which was a young city at the time, had arrived to metropolis status. Unsurprisingly, it quickly rose to fame as the hotspot for Hollywood elite, glamorous parties, and the backdrop for many popular movies. The Biltmore still radiates that grandiose, old-school charm, well-suited for the reason I was there, the Fabled Fantasy Events Romantasy Book Convention. Romantasy is the perfect melding of Romance and Fantasy and, as a genre, has been blowing up in popularity (for good reason). Authors, book industry professionals, entertainers, vendors, and fans gathered to celebrate their favorite books.

When people begin talking about a romantic getaway, minds typically drift to the country known for love—France. And I agree! I recently wrote a love letter to France , which highlights a recent stay there. However, here, I want to showcase a lesser-known, but utterly-romantic destination, Finland. In the heart of winter, Finland offers an enchanting backdrop for a romantic getaway. With its pristine snow-covered landscapes, cozy lodges, and unique Arctic experiences, it is a dream destination for couples seeking intimacy and adventure. Whether you long to chase the Northern Lights, relax in a private sauna, or explore winter’s serene beauty, Finland provides the perfect setting for love. Here’s why February is an ideal time to visit and the highlights you can look forward to. Why February is Perfect for Romance in Finland Northern Lights Season: February is one of the best months to witness the ethereal Aurora Borealis. Clear, dark nights offer optimal conditions for this magical display, which is sure to leave you and your partner in awe. Winter Wonderland: Finland’s landscapes transfo rm into a snowy paradise, perfect for romantic activities like sleigh rides, skiing, and snowshoeing. Cozy Retreats: From glass igloos under the stars to rustic log cabins with crackling fireplaces, Finland’s accommodations are designed for warmth and intimacy. Authentic Experiences: Finnish culture emphasizes relaxation and connection, making February an excellent time to enjoy traditions like sauna bathing and ice swimming. Romantic Highlights of Finland in February Lapland: Arctic Magic for Two Aurora Igloos: Spend a night in a glass-roofed igloo in Rovaniemi or Kakslauttanen, where you can gaze at the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. Reindeer Sleigh Rides: Glide through snow-draped forests on a traditional reindeer sleigh ride, an intimate and unforgettable experience. Husky Safaris: Share the thrill of mushing your own team of huskies through breathtaking Arctic landscapes. Helsinki: Urban Romance with Nordic Flair Seaside Walks: Take a hand-in-hand stroll along Helsinki’s picturesque waterfront, dotted with historic architecture and ice-covered harbors. Luxurious Spas: Pamper yourselves at one of Helsinki’s luxurious spas, such as the Allas Sea Pool or Löyly, which combine saunas with stunning sea views. Nordic Cuisine: Indulge in a romantic dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients, such as salmon, reindeer, and lingonberries, paired with Finnish wines. The Finnish Lakeland: Serene Escape Frozen Lakes: Explore the tranquil beauty of frozen lakes, ideal for ice skating or simply enjoying the serene winter scenery. Private Saunas: Finland is the land of saunas, and there’s nothing more romantic than sharing a private sauna followed by a refreshing dip in the snow. Snowshoeing Adventures: Trek through snow-blanketed forests, where the only sound is the crunch of snow underfoot. Santa Claus Village: Whimsical Romance Meet Santa Together: Relive childhood magic by visiting Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, a delightful experience for couples young at heart. Arctic Circle Ceremony: Mark your visit with a special ceremony to cross the Arctic Circle, symbolizing a unique milestone in your relationship.

There’s nothing quite like a getaway with your girlfriends to recharge your soul and remind you of the joy of simply having fun. Whether it’s sipping wine by the beach, exploring a vibrant city, or indulging in long, laughter-filled conversations, spending time with your closest friends is the perfect way to step away from the hustle of everyday life. A girls’ trip is more than just a vacation; it’s a chance to reconnect, celebrate your bond, and create memories that will have you smiling long after you’ve unpacked. This Galentine’s Day is a perfect excuse to ping your friends and plan your adventure together. Go ahead and treat yourselves to an adventure that’s all about relaxation, fun, and friendship. The first question to ask the group is—how much time do you have? From a weekend escape to a bucket-list checkmark—you have plenty of choices depending on the availability of your friends. Here we go over some ideas based on three lengths of stay. Remember, these are just some ideas to spark your wanderlust, the world is full of adventure just waiting for you. Weekend Trips It’s hard enough to align everyone’s schedules for a simple dinner together, let alone a whole trip. However, a weekend away is convenient and ideal for reconnecting while keeping travel time minimal. 📌 Sonoma Wine Weekend in California: Sip your way through wine country with private vineyard tastings, wine-paired picnics, and charming boutique inns—cheers to quality time! 📌 Luxury Dude Ranch in Montana: Think cozy cabins, guided horseback rides, scenic hikes, and evenings under a star-filled sky—all with a luxury twist. 📌 Wellness Weekend in Arizona: Rejuvenate with spa treatments, sound baths, and sunrise yoga sessions surrounded by stunning landscapes. If these aren’t nearby—not to worry! No matter where you are located, there is bound to be a location nearby that offers the amenities you and your friends desire for your weekend away.

I recently had the pleasure of staying at the Cliff House in Maine . If you are thinking, “recently,” and then looking at your calendar—yes, in January. Some say that Maine in the winter is a best-kept secret, and I now agree. It’s a reminder that off-season travel can still make for a magical experience and the Cliff House is one of the best places to find that magic for yourself. The Cliff House is open year-round but only open Thursday-Sunday during the off-season (most of December through April, check the website for exact dates). When you step into the lobby, you might immediately notice the floor-to-ceiling windows with magnificent ocean views, all complimented by an immersive maritime aesthetic. The feeling extends to the guest rooms. My group stayed in the newest addition, Ledges (completed in 2018). When you reach your room—you can continue to watch the magnificent winter waves crash against the cliffs because all the rooms are oceanside. Each floor had fresh coffee and water stations stocked with a variety of farm-fresh milk and apples. It was a delightful touch.

No matter how many times you visit, there’s a certain magic to France that never fades. For me, this trip wasn’t just about exploring—it was about savoring: the buttery richness of Chantilly cream, the effervescence of perfectly chilled champagne, and the quiet luxury of a château at sunset. My 5-night educational trip with Relais & Châteaux offered all that and more, blending indulgence with discovery in a way only France can. Here’s a glimpse into my unforgettable journey.

The holidays are just around the corner, which means it’s time to start tackling that shopping list! Don’t stress, we’ve got you covered with our favorite travel-inspired gifts for 2024. If you're shopping for a jet-setting friend or treating yourself to new travel gear, these picks are guaranteed to delight. Let’s dive in!