Weekend Away: Nantucket

May 30, 2022

NANTUCKET, Massachusetts - Only 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, the tiny island of Nantucket has long been a favorite destination for travelers seeking a taste of quaint New England charm, beautiful white sand beaches, and excellent seafood restaurants. World-class hotels, celebrated restaurants, high-end boutiques, and galleries have gracefully adapted to the quirky 18th- and 19th-century architecture, creating an eclectic community that gives visitors something new to explore year after year.

Andros, A Unique Greek Island

August 23, 2021

ANDROS, Greece - This summer, I was very fortunate to spend a month in Greece with my children. We explored the mainland, island hopped, and spent a very hot stretch in Athens. The location where we spent the longest period of time was the island of Andros, a peaceful place where everyone speaks Greek, locals outnumber tourists, and menus aren’t translated into a half dozen languages. Andros is my version of Greek heaven. Try not to spread the word too fast!

The Complete Guide to Comporta

July 23, 2021

Two summers ago, I traveled with family and friends to Comporta, a village on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean an hour south of Lisbon. As a traveler, not a tourist, I chose Comporta and the Alentejo region for our summer holiday because I was looking for Portugal’s quiet coast, where the Portuguese spend their weekends away. Turns out I was spot-on.

Punta Lobos Beach in front of Hotel San Cristóbal

The Complete Guide to Todos Santos, 2021

May 18, 2021

TODOS SANTOS, Mexico – If you think you have been to Baja because you’ve partied in Cabo, think again, Cabo is hardly representative of the state of Baja California Sur. Baja, the finger-shaped peninsula that extends south of California and is separated from mainland Mexico by the Sea of Cortez, is a desert paradise that has been attracting surfers, outdoor enthusiasts, artists, and bohemians for decades. Todos Santos, the cultural and commercial hub of the area is home to a number of galleries, restaurants, and boutique hotels. The community of multi-generational families and expats is fiercely protective of Todos Santos, its heritage, and Baja’s natural landscape. As a result, development is limited, streets are peaceful, and beaches are pristine. Come for the relaxation, sunsets, and star gazing, and stay for the dry heat, sunshine, and salty ocean breeze.

PARADERO: Todos Santos' Newest Retreat

May 3, 2021

Paradero Hotels, a new brand based in Mexico City, is the first experienced-based luxury hotel brand in Mexico. Paradero’s mission is to develop hotels in unspoiled locations throughout Mexico and introduce guests to the community and the environment. The brand's first outpost, in Todos Santos, welcomes guests to Baja with hiking, surfing, mountain biking, and tacos (lots of tacos!) and more.

The beach in front of Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort

Azores, Paradise of the North Atlantic

January 16, 2020

The Azores, a volcanic island paradise in the North Atlantic, is Europe’s answer to the Hawaiian Islands. Volcanos, crater lakes, big waves, and black sand beaches are just some of the reasons why this little known archipelago is suddenly on everyone’s radar. Quiet, laid back, with plenty of history and an abundance of beauty, this autonomous region of Portugal is only four hours direct from several North American cities. Go now before everyone realizes what they are missing!

View from the Garden Terrace at Palácio Belmonte

Palacio Belmonte, Lisbon's Intimate Retreat

November 7, 2019

LISBON, Portugal – At the top of Lisbon’s highest hill, tucked within the walls of São Jorge Castle, and hidden behind two sets of giant, red double-doors is the city’s most intimate retreat. Palácio Belmonte is a 10-suite hotel housed in one of Lisbon’s oldest and most exquisitely restored buildings. Offering discrete luxury for discerning travelers, Palácio Belmonte is the only address you need if you are looking for a unique and incredibly special hotel experience in Lisbon.

Rosario Islands, Colombia

August 20, 2019

ROSARIO ISLANDS, Colombia - A trip to Cartagena is not complete without a visit to the nearby Rosario Islands. Coralina Island, a small, family-run boutique hotel is just a quick 60-minute boat ride from Cartagena. A little bit Robinson Crusoe with a touch of Gilligan’s Island mixed in, Coralina Island is a rustic retreat surrounded by the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea. A true getaway from the hustle of the city, a stint at this lovely hotel should be part of every Cartagena travel itinerary.

Facade of the State Hotel (photo courtesy of The State Hotel) — Facade of the State Hotel *(photo courtesy of The State Hotel)*

Weekend Away: Seattle 2019

July 22, 2019

As a self-anointed ambassador of Seattle, I give you the keys to my favorite old haunts, the best new spots to check out, and the truly amazing places that are straight up AWESOME and cannot be missed (even if it’s raining).

Cartagena / www.feedmywanderlust.com / (c) Jessica Cantlin

Cartagena, Colombia

June 10, 2019

CARTAGENA, Colombia – If you are of my generation, it is only natural to think of Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner in Romancing the Stone when someone brings up the topic of Cartagena. Having just returned from this jewel of the Caribbean, let’s just say that a lot has changed since 1985. Pablo Escobar is dead. The drug cartels no longer have Colombians running scared. And Cartagena has emerged as a lovely, energetic, and welcoming city. With excellent boutique hotels, lovely beaches, abundant fresh seafood, and predictably beautiful weather, Cartagena has suddenly become a South American destination that everyone wants to visit.

Puglia, Italy

May 16, 2019

Summer is almost here, I can feel it! If you are looking to take the family to Europe this year, and want to avoid the crowds, look no further than Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot. Warm, crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, great food, and fantastic family-run hotels are just a few of the reasons why Puglia should be the destination for your next family retreat. Here is your guide for an excellent two weeks of La Dolce Vita!

Montage Los Cabos

January 10, 2019

A version of this article was previously published by Fathom.

Montage has hit it out of the park with Montage Los Cabos, the boutique hotel company’s first international outpost. Built on the tranquil shores of Santa Maria Bay, Montage brings understated luxury to this quiet cove on the Sea of Cortez. With one of the few swimmable beaches in the area, Montage is the perfect retreat for travelers looking to paddle board, swim, snorkel, and frolic with the fish. With world class food, a state of the art spa, and other luxurious amenities, Montage is destined to be one of the premier hotels in the Los Cabos area. If you are looking for a winter retreat or a spring getaway, be sure to consider a stay at the new Montage Los Cabos.

Weekend Away: San Francisco

January 1, 2019

In mid-December I snuck away to San Francisco for a weekend with friends – good food, a great new hotel, and 48-carefree hours of not having to worry about anyone but myself. I highly recommend booking a weekend city break at some point this winter. If not for the change of scenery and the luxury of pressing the pause button on everything at home, then at least for the extravagance of ordering room service! So, with my first article of 2019, I give you my “Hot List” for a weekend away in San Francisco. Happy New Year!

Napa / Sonoma

November 21, 2018

Whether it is your first time in wine country, or your 25th time, you really can’t beat a weekend in Napa and Sonoma. Here is a long awaited write up of my favorite spots in wine country. A few new places, and several wonderful mainstays that only get better with age.

Rome with Kids

September 4, 2018

Rome is a wonderful city to explore with children. A city of incredible architectural and archeological sites, and beautifully preserved fountains and art, Rome is a city steeped in history and ripe for a child’s imagination and wonder. Oh…and there is also the pizza, pasta, and gelato. Need I say more? Here is my hit list for a few days in Rome with kids.

Marrakech

July 9, 2018

If you have never been to Marrakech, now is the time to go. This enchanting north African city steeped in history and culture is the home to beautiful, luxury hotels, excellent restaurants, and fantastic shopping. With reliable, warm, sunny weather, Marrakech and the surrounding countryside are a great destination for travelers looking to experience something a little more exotic and culturally rich.

One of the ancient oak trees scattered throughout the property at Bruma.

Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico

April 24, 2018

Chances are that you have probably never heard of the Valle de Guadalupe. If you have, then you already know that Mexico's emerging wine region is popping up on everyone's travel radar for many reasons. Amazing restaurants. Good wine. Luxe accommodations. Warm weather. Mexican hospitality. Need I say more? Read up!

The magnificent structure of Fogo Island Inn designed by Architect Todd Saunders.

Fogo Island, Newfoundland

February 5, 2018

If you travel as far east as possible in North America you will find yourself on Fogo Island, Newfoundland. This magical barren island is home to Fogo Island Inn, a new, beautiful, high-design boutique hotel that caters to outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, and those seeking a different kind of travel experience. Visit in spring, and watch the ice bergs float past the hotel, or come in the summer for cod fishing and hiking. With seven distinct seasons, a new experience always awaits on Fogo Island.

Medoc, France

September 27, 2017

Already thinking about summer 2018? Looking for an authentic European beach vacation? Look no further than Médoc, a tiny region in western France that is covered in vineyards, dotted with château, and boasts some of the best beaches I have seen. Easily reached by fast train from Paris to Bordeaux, Médoc should be on your short list of places to go!

Endless white sand at Punta Lobos Beach outside Todos Santos

Todos Santos, Mexico

July 28, 2017

This spring I returned to Todos Santos, just north of Cabo San Lucas, for a quick weekend to check out all that is new along this sleepy part of the Pacific coast. And while I am happy to report that things in these parts are still sleepy, there are new wonderful places to stay, eat, and sun along this stretch of Baja. Take a peak, and I bet you will feel inspired to head south of the border before too long.