10 Places Around the World to Balance Your Root Chakra

10 Places Around the World to Balance Your Root Chakra

The root chakra, or Muladhara, is the foundation of your physical and spiritual well-being. Located at the base of the spine, it governs feelings of safety, grounding, and connection to the Earth. Balancing this energy center is essential for stability in all areas of life. What better way to balance your root chakra than by traveling to some of the most grounding places on Earth? Here are ten places around the world that are perfect for root chakra healing, with three activities to anchor your energy in each location.

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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.

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7 Places in the United States to Balance the Chakras

If you’re seeking an intentional, spiritual journey through the U.S., these seven small towns offer the perfect destinations to align and balance each of your chakras. From grounding yourself among ancient redwoods to awakening your Third Eye in the artistic desert landscape of Taos, New Mexico, these locations provide a variety of chakra-balancing activities. Let's explore these magical places and the experiences they offer for tuning into your energy centers.

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Round-up: 5 Female-authored Books that Embody the Spirit of Sagittarius

Sagittarius season, ruled by the fiery archer, is all about adventure, freedom, and intellectual exploration. Known for their boundless curiosity and optimism, Sagittarians crave experiences that broaden their horizons and inspire their imaginations. What better way to honor this spirited sign than by diving into books penned by female authors that reflect the essence of Sagittarius?

Here are five female-authored books, rich with adventure, wisdom, and a touch of wanderlust, that embody the essence of Sagittarius. Each one invites readers to journey across landscapes, cultures, and inner realms, igniting that Sagittarian spark for exploration and meaning.

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Under the Cold Moon: 5 Hidden Gems for Experiencing the Rare Lunar Standstill

This weekend, the Cold Moon graces our skies with a rare celestial dance—a lunar standstill. Known as the final full moon of the year, the Cold Moon symbolizes reflection, closure, and preparation for new beginnings. This year’s Cold Moon is even more remarkable as it coincides with the lunar standstill, a phenomenon that occurs every 18.6 years when the moon’s declination reaches its outermost limits. This celestial event marks a powerful time for introspection, ritual, and connection to the cosmic cycles.

For those looking to embrace the Cold Moon’s magic and witness its brilliance in a meaningful setting, here are five lesser-known towns across the United States perfect for moonlit gatherings, healing events, and literary inspiration. Each destination offers not just a clear view of the sky but also unique opportunities to immerse yourself in moon-themed or witchy activities.

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Insider's Guide to New Orleans

It’s always a good time in New Orleans. The city is known for its flavorful food, incredible music scene and celebratory prowess. Its parades are legendary. Its cocktail game is prime. Its energy is consistently high. Few other American cities can claim its own culinary tradition, let alone the invention of a new musical genre. 

So many different cultures have made New Orleans the vibrant, dynamic city it is today: African, Caribbean, Native American, French, German, Irish, Vietnamese, Latin American. My ultimate guide to New Orleans outlines everything you need to know about the city, including where to stay, what to do and where to eat. When you’re ready to head south, reach out to plan and book your dream Nola getaway.

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Wanderlust Unleashed: 5 Lesser-Known Destinations for Sagittarius-Inspired Travel

Sagittarians are the eternal explorers of the zodiac—adventurous, curious, and always seeking new horizons. Ruled by Jupiter, the planet of expansion, those born under this fire sign crave journeys that are meaningful and free-spirited. For the wanderers who long to see the world differently, here are five lesser-known cities and towns where adventure, culture, and a touch of magic await.

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A 5-Day Itinerary for Marfa, TX: Artsy Adventures, Local Eats, and the Marfa Lights

A 5-Day Itinerary for Marfa, TX: Artsy Adventures, Local Eats, and the Marfa Lights

Marfa, Texas, is an enchanting desert town with a blend of modern art, literary intrigue, and natural wonders. From world-class installations to mysterious phenomena like the Marfa Lights, the town offers plenty of unique experiences for creative souls and curious travelers. Here’s a 5-day itinerary highlighting the best places to stay, eat, and explore in Marfa.

Best Time to Visit Marfa The ideal times to visit Marfa are in spring (March-May) and fall (September-November), when the weather is milder, making it easier to enjoy outdoor activities and art installations. During these seasons, the town hosts events like the Chinati Foundation’s open house in October, perfect for art enthusiasts.

Important Note on Dining
Marfa’s restaurant hours can be a bit unpredictable, so it’s important to check ahead for opening and closing times. Some spots may have limited hours or may be closed on certain days, so always call or check their websites before planning your meals.

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Insider Tips for Last-Minute Ski Getaways

If procrastination has kept you from booking your winter vacation, you’re in luck. There’s still time to book your last-minute ski getaway! I've looked at ski destinations near and far and found availability at some of my favorite resorts. But with the holidays right around the corner, things change quickly, so be sure to reach out to me to find the latest available rooms. See what I’ve found in my article on Fora.

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Insider's Guide to Miami

With luxe beachfront hotels, a hip art scene, and vibrant nightlife, Miami is a hotspot for travelers who love a little glamour. The year-round sizzling sunshine makes this Florida city perfect for a long-weekend winter escape. There’s Little Havana for a taste of Cuban culture,  Wynwood for blocks of up-and-coming breweries next to funky art galleries, South Beach for sand and shopping, and so much more. Hotel snobs will feel right at home, foodies can indulge in the diverse culinary scene, and shopaholics can cash in some serious retail therapy. Whether you’re seeking a romantic city break or a fun getaway with friends, Miami delivers.

Read my article on Fora for a taste of the best of Miami. For recommendations tailored to your interests and budget, reach out. I will design the best custom trips for you and your crew. 

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Announcing the Newest Fora Reserve Partners: Anguilla, Dublin, London and More

From Colorado to Croatia, Portugal to Saint Moritz, the latest Fora Reserve partners bring you around the world — in style. Here’s where to travel next.  

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Insiders Guide, Asia, Japan, Bhutan, South Korea, Taiwan Rachel Baila Insiders Guide, Asia, Japan, Bhutan, South Korea, Taiwan Rachel Baila

Insider's Guide to Japan

There's simply no place like Japan. This country's unique blend of ancient traditions and modernity make it an unforgettable destination for travelers who appreciate distinct cultural experiences, incredible food and a wide selection of activities. From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the tranquil historic district of Kyoto and the serene hot springs of Hakone, there's something for everyone — nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, true foodies and anime fans. No wonder travelers return again and again, whether to revisit their favorite city or find something new among the sweeping coastlines or mountain ski towns.

My guide to Japan, on Fora Travel, unpacks the best places to stay and what to do in the country's top travel destinations. Whichever cities and regions you explore, expect a safe, clean and fascinating escape. Reach out to start planning.

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Last-Minute Sunny Getaways for Winter Break

Sometimes, holiday plans come together at the last minute. And sometimes, those spontaneous, spur-of-the-moment celebrations are the most memorable. Luckily, hotels in sunny destinations around the world still have spots available this holiday season, and they’re more likely to reserve such prime space for preferred partners. Please note that availability, especially this time of year, is highly volatile. At the time of writing, the hotels mentioned below do indeed have availability, but this may change. Even more reason to reach out to snag your last-minute spot. Read my article on Fora Travel to see where to go!

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Central America, Mexico Rachel Baila Central America, Mexico Rachel Baila

Insider's Guide to Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya is a stretch of white-sand coastline along Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula that's known for beautiful beaches, luxury resorts and a relaxed atmosphere. This destination attracts many travelers, including families, couples and solo adventurers. Visitors can explore ancient Mayan ruins, swim in natural cenotes or chill at upscale beach clubs. The area also offers lively nightlife and excellent dining options. With warm weather year-round, there's always something to do, whether you're looking for outdoor adventure or quiet relaxation. 

My curated guide to Riviera Maya on Fora Travel offers an overview of where to stay and what to do in the region. If you're ready to book your next escape, connect with me and I can create custom itineraries tailored to your unique preferences and budget.

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Insider's Guide to Cruises

Cruising is changing. The variety is as vast as ever, with options ranging from traditional floating metropolises to intimate yachts. Avowed non-cruisers are dipping their toes in the water. They keep coming back. 

A cruise vacation can be as relaxing or as action-packed as you want. There are options for everyone. Plus, shore excursions — guided and otherwise — make it easy to experience numerous destinations on a single itinerary. One of cruises’ main draws is that most of the logistics are already taken care of. 

Discover a few of my favorite cruise lines, and the ideal traveler for each. When you’re ready to set sail, reach out to start planning.

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Insider's Guide to the Nordic Region

Nordic countries inspire thoughts of colorful skies rippling with the Northern Lights and sleighs dashing through snowy winter wonderlands — but they are so much more.

A trip to the Nordics is for anyone who loves urban cultural stops paired with exceptional landscapes, plus a bit of adventure thrown in. And each season brings a totally different set of experiences. 

From Norway's fjords to Finland’s Lapland, I’ve put together some of my favorite intel about where to go and what to see in the Nordic Region, including Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark.

So whether you’re visiting open-air summer markets and majestic palaces in Copenhagen or chasing the Northern Lights in Abisko National Park, Sweden, here are some of the best places to stay, plus where to go and what to do.   

For personalized suggestions and detailed itineraries, reach out to me to start planning your Nordic getaway.

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5-Day Georgia O'Keeffe-Inspired Travel Itinerary: A Journey Through Art, Nature, and Soul

5-Day Georgia O'Keeffe-Inspired Travel Itinerary: A Journey Through Art, Nature, and Soul

Explore the enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture that inspired one of America’s most iconic artists, Georgia O'Keeffe. This 5-day itinerary is perfect for art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a soulful connection with the spirit of the American Southwest. O’Keeffe’s connection with New Mexico runs deep, and this trip is designed to immerse you in the rich artistic and natural beauty that informed much of her work.

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Exploring Tarot Travel: Journeying Through Archetypes and Sacred Spaces

In an age where travel is increasingly personalized, niche experiences are flourishing. One of these rising trends is Tarot Travel, a concept that blends traditional sightseeing with the mystical, symbolic world of tarot cards. But what exactly is tarot travel, and how does it take shape? Let’s dive into this unique form of experiential travel that merges destinations, hotels, food, and activities with the archetypal energies of tarot cards.

What is Tarot Travel?

Tarot travel is about embarking on a journey that aligns with the themes, symbols, and archetypes found in tarot cards. It’s not just a spiritual retreat; it’s a curated experience that brings tarot's wisdom into the physical world. Just as each card in the tarot deck has its own story and energy, tarot travel aims to immerse travelers in places, activities, and environments that embody those archetypes. Whether you’re seeking transformation, reflection, celebration, or justice, tarot can help guide your journey and bring greater meaning to your travels.

While many people associate tarot with divination or fortune-telling, most don’t use it in this way. Tarot can simply be a fun, artsy way to find inspiration. Its rich symbolism and imagery make it an ideal creative tool for crafting unique experiences that tap into deep human emotions and themes. Whether or not you believe in its mystical aspects, tarot can be an enjoyable and visually engaging lens through which to explore the world.

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MIndful Travel, Mindfulness, Wellness, Inspiration Rachel Baila MIndful Travel, Mindfulness, Wellness, Inspiration Rachel Baila

Mindful Travel: A Journey Beyond Destinations

In a fast-paced world where travel can often feel rushed and superficial, mindful travel is an intentional practice that encourages us to slow down and connect with our surroundings in a deeper, more meaningful way. It’s about being present in the moment, savoring the experiences we encounter, and approaching travel with a sense of awareness and openness. But what mindful travel looks like can vary dramatically from person to person, as each of us connects to places and experiences differently.

At its core, mindful travel is not about ticking off famous landmarks or collecting stamps in your passport—unless that’s what fuels your sense of adventure and presence. It’s about how you travel, rather than where you travel. Are you truly absorbing the moment? Are you in tune with the energy of the space you’re in? These are the types of questions a mindful traveler might consider along the journey.

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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.

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