Roundup: Anaïs Nin Inspired Places
Anaïs Nin, the prolific writer known for her introspective diaries and sensual literary style, was deeply influenced by the people and places she encountered. If she were to travel in the modern era, these five cities and towns would likely have appealed to her sense of beauty, creativity, and exploration. Each location, with its own unique charm, provides an opportunity to imagine how Nin might have engaged with its culture, art, and ambiance. Here’s a glimpse into five destinations Anaïs Nin might have adored, along with boutique hotel suggestions and activities that would have inspired her.
Itinerary: Anne Sexton Inspired
Anne Sexton, one of the most confessional poets of the 20th century, wrote about life, death, madness, and the intricacies of the human soul. Her poetry is raw, haunting, and full of complex emotion, often shaped by her struggles with mental illness and personal traumas. Traveling in her footsteps is not just about visiting physical locations but immersing oneself in the themes of her work. This five-day itinerary is designed to reflect Sexton’s poetry—mixing urban introspection, serene nature, and moments of quiet reflection.
Roundup: 5 Romantic Escapes for Cuffing Season
Cuffing season extends from October to Valentine’s Day. It’s the time of year when the temperature drops, sweaters are donned and coziness reigns. By necessity, more time is spent inside. As a result, it’s a popular time to couple up — hence the “cuffing.”
For new and existing couples (or throuples, or friend groups, or relationships with anyone you love), cuffing season is also the perfect time for a cozy domestic getaway. Below, I've listed five of my favorites, from luxury mountain escapes to posh New England estates.
When you’re ready, reach out to plan and book your dream romantic trip.
Roundup: Libra-Inspired Travel—Unique Cities That Embody Balance, Beauty, and Culture
Libra-Inspired Travel: Unique Cities That Embody Balance, Beauty, and Culture
Libras, ruled by Venus, are known for their love of beauty, balance, and harmony. They seek destinations that are rich in culture, art, and social experiences. Whether it’s indulging in fine cuisine, admiring stunning architecture, or engaging in activities that nourish both body and soul, Libras crave a well-rounded travel experience. Here are four unique cities perfect for the sophisticated Libra, complete with food, activities, and boutique hotel suggestions that embody their refined tastes.
Roundup: 5 Lesser-Known Fall Festivals in the U.S.
5 Lesser-Known Fall Festivals in the U.S.
As the temperatures drop and leaves begin to turn golden, fall festivals across the U.S. bring communities together for celebrations of local culture, history, and the season’s bounty. While events like Oktoberfest and state fairs attract large crowds, many lesser-known fall festivals offer unique experiences and a more intimate atmosphere. Here are five hidden gems in South Dakota, Maine, West Virginia, Nebraska, and Oregon that are worth checking out this fall.
Roundup: Five Lesser-Known Towns to Visit in the U.S. in October
Ask anyone and they will probably tell you that October is one of their favorite months. How can it not be? It’s magical. The air turns crisp, and with it, the leaves transform into a kaleidoscopic blaze of color. We’ve curated a list of lesser known towns that offer a unique fall experience without the madness of hotspot crowds. Here are five hidden fall gems to enjoy this October:
Roundup: My Favorite Michelin Key Hotels in Japan
If any country was primed for hotel excellence, it’s Japan. Michelin gets it, and has bestowed its coveted Key on 108 hotels in the country. (The famed tire brand has also brought its esteemed Key ratings to hotels in France, Italy, Spain and the US.)
The beauty of the Michelin Key is that the requirements for earning one — exceptional design, amazing service, distinct personality — are universal. Five-star properties and humble hidden gems alike have a chance, and this breadth of style and vibe is reflected in Japan’s diverse array of Key holders.
Below, I’ve listed a few of our favorite Michelin Key hotels in Japan (and narrowing it down was no easy task). Read on to learn about mu top picks. Then, reach out to plan and book your Michelin Key getaway (or any getaway, for that matter).
Roundup: The Latest Fora Reserve Partners, from Jungle Escapes to City Gems
One of the best parts about Fora Reserve, Fora's in-house preferred partner program, is its variety. The latest inductees are no exception. I'm thrilled to welcome a slate of new hotels into the Reserve family: a Costa Rican jungle escape near a thermal river, a sleek Chicago getaway, a beachfront resort in Crete…There really is something for everyone.
Read on for the latest. Then, reach out to plan and book your VIP vacation at one of Fora's partners.
Roundup: Welcoming Fora’s Latest Preferred Partners, from Seaside Retreats to Chic City Haunts
This month, I'm thrilled to welcome eight new partners into the Fora Reserve family. From Aegean escapes to hip urban hotspots, these are our latest partners.
Read on to learn what makes each so special. Then, reach out to plan and book your VIP stay.
Roundup: My Favorite Residences Around the World
Sometimes a vacation calls for a bit more room. That’s where residences come in. With a residence, you get the best of both worlds: tons of space, plus the service and amenities of a five-star hotel. You’re on vacation, after all, and sometimes you want extra space to unwind. Plus, residences are especially great for families or group trips.
Below, I’ve rounded up 10 of my favorite residences, some of which are part of a traditional hotel, others of which are stand-alone getaways operated by Fora's partners. Regardless, each property is expansive, beautifully designed and equipped with an impressive array of amenities to ensure your stay with a larger group is nothing short of excellent.
Roundup: 8 Unexpected Honeymoon Destinations
You might not instantly think of Japan when considering honeymoon destinations, but that’s where you’re about to be seriously impressed. With thousands of years of deep commitment to hospitality embedded into Japanese culture, you can prepare for an entirely different experience of luxury.
To start, consider staying in a ryokan, or a traditional Japanese inn, like Kayotei, located in the small hot springs village of Yamanaka in the Ishikawa prefecture. The entire property is meant to feel like the home of a friend, with traditional tatami mats and the property’s 10 suite rooms arranged in the traditional sukiya style of a tea ceremony pavilion.
If you’re looking for more of an ocean vibe, check out Sankara Resort on Yakushima Island, which focuses on true relaxation, simplicity and serenity between ocean and rainforest. Its in-house restaurants feature locally caught seafood, and every stay at Sankara begins with a consultation with a butler about your stay to make sure you’re getting the very best of what your visit has to offer. It’s perfect for newlyweds.
Looking to get even more out of your travel to Japan? Also check out our guide to where to stay in Tokyo.
Roundup: My Favorite Michelin Key Hotels in Spain
The Michelin Key was born in France, and has made its way to Spain. From countryside eco-retreats to urban palaces and boutique gems, the Michelin team has done it again, applying their discerning, expertly honed taste to the country’s best places to stay.
Read on for a few of my favorite Michelin Key hotels in Spain. At the end of each section — three Keys, two Keys and one Key — you’ll also find the remaining Key hotels, all of which merit a visit. When you're ready to jet off, reach out to plan and book your trip.
Roundup: My Favorite Michelin Key Hotels in France
Michelin, that French tire company and global master of culinary taste, announced its eponymous Key, the Michelin Star of hotels, in April 2024. Like the Michelin Star, the Michelin Key began in France, and has since been applied to properties in the US, Spain and Italy.
There are 189 Michelin Key hotels in France: an elite 24 with three Keys, 38 with two Keys and 127 with one Key. Of these, Fora gets perks at over three quarters (although I can still book your stay at most Key hotels, even if they’re not part of a specific perks program).
Many of Fora’s favorite and top-booked properties made the cut, and I certainly have my eye on a few swoon-worthy newcomers. That’s the beauty of Michelin: they cover it all. Tiny, under-the-radar gems and regal grande-dames alike are eligible. The company does its due diligence.
Below, a few of my favorite Michelin Key hotels in France, separated by number of Keys.
Roundup: 5 Stunning Croatia Hotels
Croatia’s reputation precedes it. With historic city centers, stunning cliff sides and rolling olive groves and vineyards — not to mention the cerulean waters of the Adriatic Sea — it’s clear why Croatia is one of Europe’s most exciting destinations.
There’s no shortage of exquisite places to stay across the country’s dynamic landscape, where guests can take in Croatia’s captivating natural beauty. Luxury hotels in Dubrovnik mix historic charm with modern amenities, putting guests steps from the Old Town’s sixth-century marvels like the Dubrovnik Palace. The bustling city of Zagreb boasts modern accommodations a short walk from the city’s main attractions, while the island of Hvar has hotels combining the feel of a beach resort with the elegance of a luxury hotel. Whether booking a stay at a historic café-turned-hotel in Split or canoodling with your partner in a private cove at the Villa Dubrovnik — these are the five best hotels to stay in when traveling to Croatia.
Roundup: 10 of the Best Hotels in Costa Rica
It’s no surprise that a vacation to Costa Rica, a paradise in Central America straddled by the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, promises one of the dreamiest tropical getaways imaginable. A dedication to a slower, more intentional and joy-filled way of life is ever-present. Pura vida, after all, is the country’s national motto. And Costa Rica's world-class resorts make any vacation to this lush paradise even more special.
Below, I’ve rounded up my favorite Costa Rican hotels and resorts, all of which exert a deep respect and appreciation for their natural locales. These magical properties help immerse you even more deeply into Costa Rica’s unique way of life, where the pace slows, and pressing obligations fade away.
Roundup: 11 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels
I love my pets; my fur babies are such an intrinsic part of our lives that, chances are, you fall asleep with a snuggle bug tucked by your feet, and wake up with them stealing your pillow. For many, the idea of traveling without their pets is too gut-wrenching to bare. Thankfully, there are a slew of pet-friendly hotels that welcome dogs, cats and even feathery friends.
Roundup: 8 Best Hotel Swimming Pools
Whether you’re checking into a boutique hotel in Santorini or indulging in a luxury stay in New York City, sometimes the best part of a hotel is its swimming pool. Today’s hotel pools run the gamut from indoor pools to outdoor pools, infinity pools to private plunge pools. Some hotel pools mirror their surroundings, designed as an extension of the natural landscape. Other hotel pools are all about those panoramic vistas and sunset views. Some hotels offer guest rooms with whirlpools, outdoor swimming pools or hot tubs, while other hotel pools are so over-the-top, they bring everything you could want (a swim-up bar, cabanas, daybeds, cocktails and television screens) to you poolside. Be it an adult-only pool in Las Vegas or a romantic pool carved into a cliffside in Greece, these are the best hotel pools in the world.
Roundup: 10 Best Hotels in Argentina
Maybe you’re an adventurer bound for Patagonia, or are simply *passing through* Ushuaia on your way to Antarctica. Perhaps you’re a wine-lover staying in the famed Mendoza region or soaking in the culture in the capital city of Buenos Aires. Whatever the case, Argentina has something for everyone. As an added bonus, Argentina is home to some of the most beautiful hotels in South America (and the world, for that matter).
There are boutique hotels in Buenos Aires that will find you roaming the high-end neighborhood of Recoleta or sipping Malbec in trendy Palermo. There are 5-star wine resorts where you can both drink vino and enjoy wine-inspired spa treatments with views of the Mendoza vineyards. There are cozy mountain lodges overlooking glacial lakes, where you can partake in a myriad of activities in the midst of Patagonia. There are jungle lodges with private plunge pools that bring you close to the famous waterfalls of Iguazu National Park. Just like the endless options in Argentina, this country has a hotel for everyone. Here are my picks for the best hotels in Argentina.